Agri Leader

Here's to a prosperous new year for agriculture

TBO.com
Published: January 9, 2013

The new year is under way, and we're hoping 2013 is a great one for Florida agriculture.

Challenges are everywhere, as they always seem to be every year, but what we've learned over and over is that Florida farmers and ranchers are resilient, smart and succeed year after year.

Along with assistance from extension offices and research from the University of Florida, it seems like new ground is always being broken. Whether it's citrus greening or finding better ways to grow and deliver quality fruit, produce and dairy products, our state perseveres.

The trend nationally is that more people care about the food they eat and where it comes from, and that's good for Florida farmers. So much of what consumers want is produced here, and our growing seasons are all year for a variety of crops.

We're optimistic that 2013 will be a good year and agriculture will remain a viable and successful venture for those who contribute so much to our state's heritage, economy and way of life.