Image generated by flux-ai.io & content generated by ChatGPT Version 4o-mini
Hernando County Residents: Exciting Updates from the SWFREC!
The Southwest Florida Research and Education Center (SWFREC) has some exciting news that could impact our local agricultural community in Hernando County. This week’s newsletter highlights recent research developments, international collaborations, and upcoming events that are sure to interest many local residents, especially those involved in farming and agriculture.
International Exchange in Citrus Research
One of the notable highlights is the international exchange program between agricultural graduate students from the University of Florida and their peers from the Universitat Politecnica de Valencia in Spain. Dr. Ute Albrecht, a plant physiologist at SWFREC, led a group of students to Spain to share research insights and learn about different agricultural practices. This collaboration not only enhances the educational experience for students but also fosters global connections in the field of citrus research, which is vital to our local economy.
Citrus Industry Conference Insights
Recently, two faculty members from SWFREC presented at the Citrus Industry Annual Conference in Bonita Springs. This event is significant for our local citrus growers, as it focuses on Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening disease. Dr. Albrecht discussed the benefits of oxytetracycline (OTC) injections, a treatment that has shown promising results in improving citrus tree health. Additionally, economist Dr. Tara Wade shared insights on the adoption and outcomes of these treatments. The information shared at this conference could directly benefit local growers by providing them with the latest research and practical solutions to combat this serious disease affecting our citrus crops.
Research Recognition
Dr. Albrecht’s work has received attention in the May issue of Specialty Crop Grower magazine, where she discussed her research on trunk injections and their positive effects on citrus yield and quality. This is particularly relevant for Hernando County, where agriculture plays a significant role in the local economy. Her findings could help local farmers enhance their production methods and improve the quality of their citrus crops.
Upcoming Events to Mark on Your Calendar
For those interested in learning more and connecting with the agricultural community, there are several upcoming events:
-
Citrus & Specialty Crop Expo: Scheduled for August 20-21, 2025, at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. This expo will feature seminars and demonstrations relevant to local farmers.
-
UF/IFAS Florida Tomato Conference: Taking place on September 4, 2025, at the John Boy Auditorium in Clewiston. This conference will provide valuable insights into tomato production, which is another important crop for our region.
These events are excellent opportunities for local residents to gain knowledge, network with other growers, and learn about the latest advancements in agricultural practices.
Conclusion
As Hernando County continues to grow, staying informed about agricultural research and developments is crucial for both our local economy and community health. The updates from SWFREC show the commitment to enhancing agricultural practices and connecting our local farmers with global research initiatives.
For more detailed information and to view the full newsletter, please visit SWFREC Update E-news.
References
Untitled. (n.d.). swfrec.ifas.ufl.edu. https://swfrec.ifas.ufl.edu/docs/pdf/swfrec-update/25-06-18-SWFREC-eNews.pdf