Help Needed To Honor Florida's Ag-Environmental Leaders

Posted by Paul Rusnak|Updated: March 12, 2021

Nominations are now open for Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (FDACS) Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award. The industry honor has been presented since 1994 to recognize environmentally innovative Florida growers and ranchers. FDACS needs your help to find the next crop of honorees.

“We have nearly 10 million acres of farmland, and every acre is an opportunity for land conservation and improved water quality,” says State Ag Commissioner Nikki Fried.

The following environmental practices will be considered in judging nominations for the 2021 Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award:

Wildlife protection and Habitat Conservation: Provide a safe, vibrant habitat for wildlife within an agricultural operation.
Pesticide/Nutrient Management: Use pesticides/nutrients responsibly, maximizing benefits and minimizing potential adverse environmental effects.
Water Quality: Preserve or improve water quality within or adjacent to an agricultural operation.
Soil and Water Conservation: Reduce soil erosion, nutrient depletion and water consumption, and enhance water recharge.
Waste Management/Recycling: Reduce waste by recycling agricultural by-products and waste products on site.

Nominations for the award are evaluated by a committee composed of representatives from FDACS, The Nature Conservancy, the state’s water management districts, the Florida Farm Bureau, the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, the Florida Dairy Association, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Florida Citrus Mutual, the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association, and the Florida Forestry Association.

“Florida’s farmers and ranchers are some of the best stewards of our lands, waters, and environment that you’ll find anywhere, says John Hoblick, President of the Florida Farm Bureau Federation. “Ask any farmer – growing their commodities, raising their cattle, making a living, and supporting their family is all tied to the land, water, and environment. Now more than ever, it’s up to us farmers to preserve these treasured resources. Together through agriculture, we can protect Florida’s environment for generations to come.”