The three finalists for the 2008 Citrus Achievement award are highly regarded in the state’s citrus industry and made for a tough call in the selection process because all are so well qualified. Words taken directly from the nominators speak volumes about the finalists and how they are viewed by their peers.

Peter McClure

“McClure, manager of Evans Properties in Ft. Pierce, currently serves as chairman of the Florida Citrus Production Research Advisory Council and has been a strong advocate for research to defeat greening. There is no one that has worked harder than Peter to secure research and funds for the work to defeat greening. This is in addition to reading around 200 proposals for greening research.”

Joe Davis Sr.

“Joe Davis Sr. has been a very critical piece of the puzzle for the Florida citrus industry for many years. Davis was one of the first to install underground tile drainage, one of the first of the early installers of permanent irrigation, one of the first to hedge and top, and continues to advocate mechanical harvesting. Davis served 18 years as a Florida Citrus Commissioner, with four of the 18 years serving as chairman.”

Mason Smoak

“Mason Smoak and his family are on the leading edge of greening detection (scouting) and the sharing of their (and their employee’s) knowledge from the field. He also is extremely active on the legislative front in both Washington and Tallahassee, testifying before various panels. He is currently serving as president of the Highlands County Citrus Growers and chairman of the Heartland Agricultural Coalition, as well as being active in the University of Florida’s Wedgworth Leadership Program. And most important, he is a great role model for up-and-coming members of our industry.”

Message From Our Sponsor

Chemtura Corporation congratulates the 2008 Citrus Achievement Award nominees and is proud to recognize some of the most influential individuals in Florida’s citrus industry.

“We appreciate the nominees’ commitment and dedication to the industry,” states Keith Griffith, marketing development manager for Chemtura Corporation. “The leadership and measurable impact the nominees have shown throughout the year is substantial, and we are pleased to be a part of this prestigious community.”