Citrus Disease Research To Get Boost From USDA

USDA will fund $11 million for citrus disease research over the next four years.  

The money will be awarded between now and 2014, with $2 million going to Florida-based researchers immediately and the rest of the funding coming from a USDA competitive grant program.

 “We deeply appreciate this initial quick infusion of desperately needed research funding to supplement what Florida growers have already spent,” said Michael W. Sparks, executive VP/CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual.

A stakeholder board comprised of producers and scientists from the leading citrus producing states including Florida, California, and Texas will oversee and evaluate the funding and research announced. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will appoint the board members.

U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL) has been a long-time proponent of citrus disease research.  He has been working to bring this issue to the attention of the USDA and has told the industry he remains committed to establishing a permanent citrus research trust fund financed through a portion of the tariff on imported orange juice. 

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According to the Congressional Budget Office, that legislation could generate $118 million over five years for research against invasive citrus pest and diseases.  The measure has broad support among citrus leaders in Texas, California and Florida.

Mutual President Vic Story Jr. applauded Nelson. He said Mutual will continue to work tirelessly with the Senator to make sure citrus research is adequately funded for the long term.
“The Citrus Disease Research Trust Fund must be able to serve as a long-term source of funding as we continue to fight HLB and other non-native diseases that haven’t reached U.S. soil yet,” Story said. “The very future of a $9 billion industry and the 76,000 jobs it supports is at stake.”  

Source: Florida Citrus Mutual news release