Florida named Spotlight State at 46th annual Sunbelt Ag Expo

MOULTRIE, Ga. – The 46th annual Sunbelt Ag Expo is shining the spotlight on Florida.

At this year’s Sunbelt Ag Expo, Florida took center stage as the Spotlight State, offering visitors an in-depth look at its agricultural past, present, and future.

As a major contributor to U.S. Agriculture, Florida has faced significant challenges, including the impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

“A lot of our producers have been damaged either by wind or flood and depending on Helene or Milton. We had extremes on both sides of the storm. So, there are a variety of different things that have been challenging from a plant standpoint. A lot of wind damage, a lot of root rot. We had some structural damage to some packing houses, to some peanut buying points in some other places as well,” said Jeb Smith, Florida Farm Bureau President.

Jeb Smith, President of the Florida Farm Bureau, discusses the impact these storms have had on Florida’s agricultural industry.

“You know, our citrus industry has gone from a very robust industry in 1997-98 from having 304 million boxes of citrus, to this last year was 18.1. Looking into this year we might increase that. Another devastating blow to our biggest ag industry in Florida. We’ve got damage from our aquaculture to our timber industry, vegetable industry. And, it’s been very destructive. But, Florida farmers are resilient and we’re looking forward to moving forward and those growers to be able to come back in and produce,” said Smith.

With over 300 different commodities and an output nearing $83 billion, Florida’s ag industry remains resilient, assuring customers that the impact on them will be minimal.

“One thing about Florida, Florida’s agriculture is very diverse in the states, very long, so not all of it was adversely affected. Some of it actually will have products in south Florida that it’s actually grown in central Florida, in north Florida that should be available. The problem is, when one gets hurt, that puts a lot of pressure on the other to produce, to make sure that that crop comes up, to make sure there is no interruption to our consumers. I would say that the consumer will probably see very little impact on them financially or availability,” said Smith.

And… there are ways for you to make a difference in helping Florida recover.

“Our Florida Department of Agriculture, consumer services has been very engaged with our producers, providing some financial assistance in regard to fencing, perimeter fencing, making sure that cattle are kept in their spots, likewise reducing some restrictions. However, it is very important that if somebody wants to contribute to our producers. Florida Farm Bureau has a website Hurricane Relief Fund for Agriculture. It is a 501C3 that they can donate to our hurricane relief fund and it will go directly to our producers,” said Smith.

Jeb Smith also delivers an encouraging message to Florida’s agricultural producers.

“My life is based on faith, family and then farming. And, I can tell you what our faith is strong in the Lord. And, the thing I would do is just make sure that we look to the Lord, ask him for strength, make sure that he’s our source for moving forward, and he is. Our producers, turn to the Lord, pray. Thank you for y’all’s prayers for us. That’s the most important thing anybody can do for us,” said Smith.

De’Andra Jacobs reporting.

Copyright 2024 CBS 44 South Georgia. All rights reserved.