Citrus growers increase research tax on themselves

By GARY PINNELL | gpinnell@highlandstoday.com
Published: December 14, 2009

TALLAHASSEE --

With 76 percent of the vote, the Florida citrus growers overwhelmingly voted to continue funding a self-imposed tax to conduct canker and greening research for another six years. Consensus was reached through a statewide referendum that concluded Wednesday.

The research vote increased the industry's self-imposed tax in 2004 to a maximum of 3 cents per box, and established the Citrus Research and Development Foundation as the research advisory council to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

"The response was unprecedented," said Florida Agriculture Commissioner Charles H. Bronson. "Almost twice as many growers participated in this vote than in 2004. I believe this clearly demonstrates the industry's concern and commitment to combating citrus diseases."

Under Florida Statutes, a referendum must win approval of 65 percent of those voting, and represent 51 percent of the voting acreage.

Since 1992, the box tax has generated more than $25 million for research aimed at eradicating citrus pests and diseases, and improving varieties and management practices.

RESULTS

YES votes: 1,166

NO votes: 363

Acres in YES vote: 363,094

Acres in NO vote: 53,577

% of acres in YES vote: 87 percent