Florida Citrus Industry Seeks State Support for Survival

Florida's citrus industry, which has seen a 90% drop in production over the past three decades, is seeking continued state support for research and marketing to combat citrus greening disease and sustain the remaining 1,500 growers. Matt Joyner, CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual, highlighted the necessity of funding research aimed at developing greening-resistant trees, while Shannon Shepp from the Department of Citrus emphasized the importance of maintaining marketing efforts. The industry faces existential threats from the Asian citrus psyllid, alongside economic pressures, despite its significant $6.8 billion annual economic impact and environmental benefits. The current production is a fraction of the past, with only 12 million boxes of oranges and 1.2 million boxes of grapefruit expected this season, down from the peak of 244 million boxes of oranges in 1998. Industry leaders are optimistic about a renaissance, provided the necessary support is maintained. The call to action was presented to the Senate Agriculture Committee to ensure the survival and future growth of the industry.