Optimism Outpours At Florida Citrus Industry Annual Conference

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A less-than-stellar USDA crop estimate update — amid an already dismal production season — didn’t damper the spirits of those attending the 10th Florida Citrus Industry Annual Conference last week in Bonita Springs.

According to conference host Florida Citrus Mutual, this landmark anniversary of the annual gathering set a new attendance record with nearly 800 people taking part in the three-day event. While the impressive turnout is a positive sign, it’s also indicative of a strength-in-numbers mentality for those searching for answers to the HLB riddle.

A well-conceived educational agenda provided a balanced perspective from researchers and growers on several points of promise including antimicrobial research, thermotherapy for infected trees, new HLB-resistant rootstocks, and whether it’s worth the risk to replant. All of these topics and the complementary presentations spoke to the program’s “Reason For Optimism” theme.

Mike Sparks, Florida Citrus Mutual VP/CEO, said growers should be encouraged by the effectiveness of CHMAs (citrus health management areas), new large-scale plantings, and all the ambitious research projects rejuvenated by recently approved government funding sources. “Don’t write our obituary just yet,” he said. “We have a long, bright future ahead of us.”

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Check out the slideshow above for a more detailed inside look from the event as well as highlights from the Florida Grower Citrus Achievement Award presentation.

 

 

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