The disease called citrus greening has wreaked havoc on our state's most iconic industry. Florida is harvesting the smallest citrus crop in 52 years.
State and federal dollars have been pouring into frantic efforts to save groves. Some of the efforts seem to be paying off. But is it too late for the small family farms?
This week on Florida Matters we talk about the breathtaking decline in Florida's citrus industry, and learn about new farming methods and research that show promise.
Our guests include:
Michael Sparks, CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual, a cooperative that represents the interests of the state's citrus growers. The Florida Citrus Hall of Fame recently announced Sparks will be inducted into the Hall in March.
Dr. Harold Browning, COO of the Citrus Research and Development Foundation, the organization that has oversight over greening research efforts.
Scott Young, a citrus grower in Alturas. He's the third generation that has worked in the citrus business in his family. Young is also a Polk County Farm Bureau board member.
