CHANGING HANDS AT UF/IFAS

COMMITTED TO A FARM BUREAU Partnership

A NEW UF/IFAS LEADER TAKES OFFICE

(PHOTOS COURTESY OF TYLER JONES, UF/IFAS) (Editor’s Note: This month Dr. J. Scott Angle takes office as the Vice President of the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Formerly a faculty member at the University of Maryland, he was most recently the Director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. He is a soil scientist who has focused his studies on nutrient losses from agricultural systems. His answers to a series of FloridAgriculture interview questions are included in an edited form below. The complete questions and answers will be included in the August issue of FloridAgriculture e-News.)

Q What most attracted your interest in the position at UF/IFAS?

A I was interested in leading an already-great organization and UF/IFAS, by various lists, ranks 1st to 5th among landgrant universities and agricultural colleges. But more importantly, I wanted to join an organization that was responsive to the citizens of the state. This is the essence of the land-grant mission and the reason President Abraham Lincoln created the system of universities to support all citizens.

Q Given the continuous urban population growth in Florida, do you see unique challenges ahead for your leadership of UF/IFAS?

A I have an unusual background for an agricultural leader, as much of my

life I have lived in downtown urban environments. I have owned a farm in Maryland for many years. So, I feel I understand the perspectives inherent in those who live in sparsely populated areas where most food is produced and the densely populated places where most of it is eaten.

Sustainable intensification to grow more food with fewer inputs, such as fertilizer, water and pesticides, is a driving force that all segments of society can support. A cleaner environment, producing food that improves health and assuring that our farmers remain profitable are issues that are commonly supported. These are areas that UF/IFAS is ideally suited to address.

Q What overall plans do you have for the research and Extension dimensions of UF/IFAS?

A I believe that no land grant institution is better than UF at developing new cutting-edge technologies and finding ways to move these ideas into the user community. It’s the three-way intersection among basic research, applied research and dissemination where UF/IFAS shines. I also believe in the fundamental mission of Extension to help all citizens of the state, whether it’s at the county level through agents and programs, or information provided online. The personal touch will not change.

Q Do you plan to continue the important UF/IFAS research on the impact of Mexican imports upon Florida agriculture?

A Yes, in fact, one of our food resource economists, Dr. Zhengfei Guan, is still working on these research questions. His team is planning to study the effects of potential policy tools meant to counter Mexican trade practices and subsidies.

Most consumers prefer U.S.-produced food, but they also want low cost. I believe we need to continue to find ways to lower the cost of food, maintain quality and safety and assure that farmers are fairly compensated for their work. The primary way to assure economic prosperity for our farmers is to lower input costs. Technology can lead the way, whether through automation and reduced labor, less expensive and more efficient inputs or better supply chain management.

There must remain some form of a “safety net” for growers in years where losses are beyond the control of the farmer. Economists are debating what the safety net should look like, but I firmly believe we must never lose our ability to protect our industry.

Q Do you expect that the partnership between Florida Farm Bureau and UF/ IFAS will continue to flourish?

A I understand the role the Florida Farm Bureau plays in the state and the need for a continued close relationship with UF/IFAS. I look forward to building a solid relationship by working closely with leadership of the Farm Bureau. This relationship must be hand-andglove, built on trust, constant communication and respect.

I will work hard to continue the strong bond that already exists and even improve it where possible. Farm Bureau and UF/ IFAS need each other. Farm Bureau can be the primary advocate for UF/IFAS at the legislative level. But this will only happen if you see UF/IFAS being responsive to the farming communities’ needs.

Florida farmers depend upon UF/IFAS researchers to help meet challenges of contemporary agriculture.

Q How will your research background influence your leadership at UF/IFAS?

A The balance of profitable farming and enhanced environmental quality remains an important rallying point today and into the future of farming. Farmers want a healthy, clean environment and sustainable natural resources more than anyone else because it’s their future. UF/IFAS can provide the technologies for helping to achieve this vision.

Q Does the diversity of Florida’s agricultural commodities present special service challenges for UF/IFAS research and Extension?

A Absolutely. Florida is second only to California in the diversity of our commodities. And farming in a tropical/sub-tropical zone makes it even more difficult than in California, where agriculture is typically found in valleys that rarely change. Multiply the number of soil types, climate zones and commodities grown in Florida, and the level of management needed to be successful is almost overwhelming.

Yet most Florida farmers are successful, which I find so impressive. The answer to this complex set of challenges is simply hard work. UF/IFAS is large, but it must remain a responsive organization to address the many challenges faced by the farming community.

Q Under your direction, how will UF/IFAS help enhance communication of the benefits of contemporary agriculture for our larger society?

A I have been involved in the national dialogue and more recently at the global level to promote a better understanding of agriculture with all citizens. Despite efforts of so many, we need to acknowledge that this work will never be finished, and we must continually communicate this message to anyone willing to listen, but especially those who are far disconnected from the food industry. I look forward to being part of this discussion in Florida.

Q What are your plans for outreach and communication with the range of UF/IFAS stakeholders?

A My outreach style is very personal. I need to get to know the entire industry so that you feel comfortable calling me, even on difficult issues. Early in my tenure, I will be visiting with as many leaders as time will allow. Let me be clear – I work for you.

Taxpayers, whether individuals or businesses, pay our salaries, and we are accountable to you. If UF/IFAS fails to provide value, I need to know. The Florida Farm Bureau Federation has many priorities. I want to make sure UF/IFAS remains on the top of your list, and I know that only will happen if you find value in the teaching, research and Extension that we deliver.