The beginning of another year helps breathe new life into many people as the hope of what could spring eternal may lay just around the corner. On the other hand, the glass-half-empty crowd might tend to take the perspective of, “OK, now what?”
Regardless of what side of the bed you’re waking up on as 2011 dawns, change is coming — ready or not. Yes, new pest and disease discoveries, wild weather extremes, game-changing regulation consideration/implementation, health care reform, and immigration issues are likely to make headlines this year in the Florida agriculture marketplace. But hopefully, positive news-making developments, such as breakthrough studies, more disease-resistant varieties, better production techniques, new chemistries, impressive yields, and competitive crop prices, can take up some real estate in the print and online mediums, too. Only time will tell. But, it’s not all out of our hands.
Fair Forecast
While weather prediction has never been and is still not an exact science, it sure is getting closer. And that is great news for growers. As the last couple of winters — as well as last month’s early arrival of frigid air — have shown us, records are made to be broken. One or two degrees in temperature can mean a lot between getting your product off the ground and running or struggling from the get-go. Technology is helping get a handle on how to better protect the fruits of your labor from the sometimes (though seems to be more often) cold, swift hand of Mother Nature in efficient and economical ways. Learn more about what high-tech tools are available to help fend off freezes by
clicking here.
Room For Improvement
Preparation for the expected as well as unexpected is a must for you to continue doing what you do best — grow, sell, pack, and ship products that help feed a hungry, growing population.
It has been encouraging to see Florida ag sectors like the citrus industry and tomato producers taking the lead and developing their own set of food safety measures and good agricultural practices in anticipation of what the government is likely to dish out. More of that kind of initiative is needed.
After much debate, the EPA nailed down the numeric nutrient criteria for Florida waterways. There is still much confusion surrounding this issue and (as of press time) pending litigation. Though not scheduled to take effect for more than a year, the window is closing on figuring out how this rule will impact Florida ag. Learn more about how to prepare for this on by
clicking here.
Taking control of your own destiny is better than waiting for the other shoe to drop. A proactive approach — especially these days — is key for survival and success. For those who make New Year’s resolutions, add one more to your list: Resolve to be a better farmer. If you do things right to take care of business at home, you should be ready for whatever comes your way, whenever that may be.
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It's Time to Take Control of Your Own Desitny
Paul Rusnak is the Senior Online Editor for Meister Media Worldwide's Specialty Crops Division, which consists of American Vegetable Grower, American Fruit Grower, and Greenhouse Grower magazines, all Meister Media brands. He is based in Northeast Florida. See all author stories here.
December 16, 2010 