Opinion: Good Students Become Great Teachers
May 25, 2012 
A few months back when the news broke about HLB being found in Southern California, it certainly was not a shock to me and probably not to most — if not all — of the citrus growers in the Sunshine State. It’s hard to imagine a disease that has persisted and spread as vastly as HLB has, would simply (or magically) skip over the fruitful fields California has to offer. It’s kinda foolish to think that would be the case, too. The Golden State was lucky to get by as long as it did without a positive tree being found.
Their issue is unique, as the majority of its production is of the fresh variety. Not so unique to our West Coast compatriots is the impact something of this magnitude has on all involved in the profession.
Live And Learn
While participating on a citrus industry speaker panel at the recent All Florida Ag Show, Larry Black of Peace River Packing was asked by moderator Ray Royce, Highlands County Citrus Growers Association, about the prospects of California being able to eradicate its new problem. He responded, “I believe everyone in this room knows that’s a battle they are not going to win long term.”
His candid answer mirrored the overwhelming majority (91%) of Florida Grower eNews poll respondents who were asked the same question. However, Black offered an interesting perspective as he concluded his thought on the subject: “The good news is, politically in research funding, we have a new ally. They have been friends so far in Washington, D.C., now we’ll be tied at the hip on research requests, etc. We’ll have a lot more in our war chest going forward as California battles this disease as well.”
So, the silver lining: There is strength in numbers.
In the years since HLB first hit home, Florida citrus growers and researchers have not only looked in the mirror, but also beyond our borders for possible answers and better solutions. Far-reaching destinations such as Brazil, China, and South Africa became local learning grounds. Recently, the tables have turned as more of our foreign counterparts are looking at what growers here are doing in their groves to sustain the crop. Now that California has been thrown into the fray, you’d think we’d be in for even more visitors. Time will tell.
Believe And Achieve
No matter what, where, and how you grow, there is someone out there near and far dealing with similar challenges. Willing leaders are needed to help get everyone on the same page. Vic Story, this year’s Florida Grower Citrus Achievement Award winner, is a prime example of a true industry champion. He was nominated by peers and deservedly selected for his longevity and active advocacy.
As we go forward, more people like Vic will be looked to for help and guidance. Whomever is asking for advice, let’s all do our part to listen, share, and educate.
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