In The Field magazine Hillsborough edition

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MAY 2021 VOL. 17 • ISSUE 7

CONTENTS TRINITY SPORTSMAN MINISTRIES

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Hillsborough County Farm Bureau 305 S. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL. Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Insurance Services: 813-685-5673 Member Services: 813-685-9121

Photo by Karen Berry PAGE 10 State Officer

PAGE 32 State Fair

PAGE 14 Water Wise Awards PAGE 15 Ag Tech Expo

PAGE 35 Celeriac PAGE 36 GCREC

PAGE 18 Fishing Hot Spots PAGE 22 Rocking Chair Chatter

PAGE 38 Rain Water Harvesting PAGE 42

AG-Venture

PAGE 24 AI Pestcontrol

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PAGE 26 Stalk & Vine

PAGE 46 Endangered Species

John Dicks

PAGE 50 Literary Time Machine PAGE 51 New Conservationist PAGE 53 A Closer Look

PAGE 48 Summer Growing

PAGE 30 News Briefs

PAGE 58 Aquaculture

Judi Whitson, Executive Director 813-685-9121

Fresh or Frozen PAGE 64 HSWCD PAGE 65 Field and Table

Hey Readers!

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InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377 • Plant City, Fl. 33566-0042 *Winners will be notified by phone. You Too Can Be A Winner!

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

May 2021

DIRECTORS FOR 2018 - 2019

PAGE 56 Scott Angle

Hidden somewhere in the magazine is a No Farmers, No Food logo. Hunt for the logo and once you find the hidden logo you will be eligible for a drawing to win a FREE No Farmers No Food Sticker. Send us your business card or an index card with your name and telephone number, the number of the page which you found the logo and where on the page you located the logo to the address below

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Dennis Carlton, Jr.....................President Jake Raburn................Vice President Tony Lopez..............Treasurer Buddy Coleman..................Secretary

Christina Andrlik, Carl Bauman, Jake Cremer, Tiffany Dale, Carson Futch, Jim Frankowiak, Chip Hinton, John Joyner, Lawrence McClure, Sambahv, Vincent Tort, Will Womack, Gayle Yanes

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PAGE 28 HCSO

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Farm Bureau Insurance Special Agents

Valrico Office 813-685-5673

100 S. Mulrennan Rd., Valrico, FL. 33594 Tommy Hale, CLU, ChFC, CASL, CPCU Agency Mgr. Julie Carlson, Amy Engle

Plant City Office 813.752.5577

305 S. Wheeler St., Plant City, FL 33563 Jeff Summer Artis Griffin

Tampa Office 813.933.5440

6535 Gunn Highway, Tampa, FL.33625 Greg Harrell, Jared Bean

AGENCY MANAGER Thomas O. Hale WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

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STAFF

Letter from the Editor Commissioner of Agriculture, Nikki Fried, announced the winners of the second annual Florida Agricultural History and Creativity Award Essay Contest and we had some local winners!

Elementary Winners are Landon Shirley, a fourth grader from Hillsborough County, Carter Poorman, a fourth grader from Pinellas County, and Avery Best, a fifth grader from Polk County.

Middle School Winners are Nicolas Bearzi, Daniela Fonte and Marina Sporleder, all eighth graders from Miami-Dade County

High School Winners are: Tyana Tibby, a 10th grader from Hillsborough County, Ella Hoffmaster, a ninth grader from Sarasota County, and Asa Worden, a 12th grader from Charlotte County.

Each lucky winner will receive a $1,000 Florida Prepaid Scholarship.

The contest is open to all fourth through 12th graders enrolled in public or private school in Florida. Students write a 500 word essay about a variety of food insecurity topics and this year students were encouraged to discuss school gardens, nutrition programs, food inequities in communities of color and leaders helping fight chronic hunger.

Congratulations to the winners!

On another note, the 2021 Florida State Fair is one for the books. Though postponed by the pandemic, it was still a success, even with some seriously high temperatures. I am definitely looking forward to next year when, hopefully, things will be held at their normally scheduled times.

Until Next Month

Sarah Holt The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. - Numbers 6:25

Publisher/Photography Karen Berry Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher Sarah Holt Editor Patsy Berry Sales Karen Berry Sarah Holt Melissa Nichols George Domedion Creative Director/Illustrator Juan Alvarez Photography Karen Berry Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Breanne Williams Anita Todd Contributing Writers Woody Gore John Dicks Social Media Victoria Saunders

In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Hillsborough County businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed

by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes all of the Greenbelt Property owners, members of the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau and Strawberry Grower’s Association.

Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909 Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. In The Field Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In the Field magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc.

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Published by Berry Publications, Inc.

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VISIT AND ENJOY THE FLORIDA STATE FAIR HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

-Dennis Carlton Jr. - President

Dear Readers – The rescheduled Florida State Fair ended earlier this month.

Although delayed because of COVID-19, this event once again showcased Agriculture and its impact and importance to all of us. I would like to express my thanks to our Executive Director Judi Whitson and the volunteers she organized to staff the Ag-Venture program in the Ag Hall of Fame building on the fairgrounds.

There’s more on this educational outreach program in this edition of IN THE FIELD which I hope you will read. This is another example of how Farm Bureau functions as the “Voice of Agriculture,” helping to showcase various aspects of our industry and how each impacts us all.

I am happy to report that Governor Ron DeSantis has signed the “Right to Farm” Bill that will become law July 1. This new law is very important to our industry as it provides protection for farmers and ranchers from nuisance lawsuits, functioning as a strong deterrent against frivolous legal actions in the future. It is considered to be the strongest legislation of this type in the nation. We are most grateful for this action of the recently completed legislative session.

That session also produced an updating of the Bert J. Harris, Jr., Private Program Rights Protection Act. This new legislation streamlines the process used by landowners who seek relief when their property is unfairly affected by government

action. Our state lawmakers also continue to support our important partners at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences through funding of various initiatives. UF/IFAS enables our producers to compete effectively in the global agricultural market through many programs from the resolution of challenges our industry faces to the development of new markets.

Our aquaculture producers were also aided by this session’s legislative action. Large Mouth Bass legislation was passed that will permit the sale of this species as food fish, allowing producers to compete in a national market where the demand for Large Mouth Bass is growing. This legislation also allows Florida restaurants to add this product on their menus.

All of this activity – from the Ag-Venture Program at the Fair to legislative support of our industry – could not have occurred without the assistance of our volunteers. I am most thankful for that. Should you wish to help us going forward, please consider volunteering. If your family does not belong to Florida Farm Bureau, please consider joining.

For more information, please call us at 813/685-9121 or email: info@hcfarmbureau.org. Thank you

Dennis Carlton Jr. Dennis Carlton Jr. - President

305 SOUTH WHEELER STREET • PLANT CITY, FL 33566 • 813-685-9121 Board of Directors

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Dennis Carlton, Jr. , President; Jake Raburn, Vice-President; Tony Lopez Treasurer; Buddy Coleman, Secretary; Christina Andrlik, Carl Bauman, Jake Cremer, Tiffany Dale, Carson Futch, Jim Frankowiak, Chip Hinton, John Joyner, Lawrence McClure, Sambahv,Jay Marty Tanner, Vincent Tort, Will Womack, Gayle Yanes Judi Whitson, Executive Director

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May State Officer Column

By Emma Poole and Christian Bentrovato April and May are stacking up to be extremely busy months for the Florida FFA State Officer Team. Between preparing for State Convention, visiting chapter banquets, and working at the Florida State Fair, we have had our hands full, and we are excited to continue a successful year. Back at the beginning of April, my teammate, Parker Kruse, and I had the opportunity to attend the inaugural Taylor County Middle School FFA Banquet. We were able to speak to the attendees about the persistence and dedication that FFA members have shown throughout this year, despite the challenges that they may have faced. It is true – Florida FFA members are a great example for the rest of us of what it means to never give up, in spite of any circumstances.

For the first part of the Florida State Fair, I had the opportunity to assist at shows, work with the Little Farm Hands program, and even attend a banquet. Our team was able to meet Nikki Fried, the Florida Commissioner of Agriculture, and I was able to meet the Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent, Addison Davis at the Woman of the Year in Agriculture Banquet. The Woman of the Year Banquet is always one of my favorite events at the fair. This year was extra special because I was able to sing the National Anthem at the banquet! The Woman of the Year in Agriculture program seeks to honor one woman each year who has made outstanding contributions to the agricultural industry.

This year’s honoree was Mrs. Veronique Sallin. Mrs. Sallin has helped to increase the global market for Florida citrus, specifically grapefruit. Together with her husband, she founded Cherrylake, Inc., and IMG Citrus, which are two parts of IMG Enterprises, which is a company specializing in agriculture and land management. She has been honored by the French President for her work in promoting French culture as well as promoting Florida Citrus.

took a lot of insight away from hearing her speak, but this is the thing that stuck with me the most: The future is bright, but only if we choose to make it that way.

- Emma Lauren Poole Florida FFA State Secretary During one of our teams’ recent trips to The University of Florida, we had the opportunity to tour Frazier-Rodgers Hall. During the tour we were able to see what projects students were working on and get a glimpse at how The University of Florida is tackling issues that face agriculture today. One of the labs that we went in was called a wet lab and it was essentially suspended above a pool of water. We were able to see some of the irrigation experiments that they use the lab for, and it was cool to see how they can utilize a facility like that.

As we are preparing for the end of our year of service, we have been preparing for the 93rd Florida FFA State Convention and Expo! We are all working hard to ensure that we have a successful convention and that it is one for the history books! We hope that as many of you as possible will be able to join us in Orlando from June 14th-18th. This convention is one of the most anticipated that we have ever had and know that we are very fortunate to be able to hold our convention in person.

The entire State Officer Team is very excited for the end of our year but are sad it is coming to an end so soon.

Congratulations to all of our wonderful Hillsborough County and Area V teams that have won this year and we hope to see you on stage!

-Christian Bentrovato Area V State Vice President

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Mrs. Veronique Sallin can truly be an inspiration for us all. Through her hard work and dedication, she has made the world a better place while working to promote Florida Agriculture. That is the true purpose of a state officer, as well. I

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2021 Community Water Wise Awards Program

By Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Agent UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County

DOES YOUR LANDSCAPE HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO WIN? ENTER TODAY TO FIND OUT!

The 2021 Community Water Wise Awards, sponsored

by Tampa Bay Water, were created to recognize individuals and businesses committed to conserving our water resources and protecting the environment by using Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) principles.

There are nine FFL principles which include: right plant right place, water efficiently, fertilize appropriately, mulch, attract wildlife, manage yard pests responsibly, recycle, reduce stormwater runoff and protect the waterfront. Many of these principles are used as part of the landscape evaluation process for this awards program.

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You can view photographs and watch short videos of past winners at: https://awards.tampabaywaterwise. org/. The top photo on this link is the 2020 Unincorporated Hillsborough County Community Water Wise Award-winning landscape. The deadline for entries is June 30. You can complete your application now, which will take about five-ten minutes; then submit on-line at the link above. Attaching a photo or two is helpful. On-site landscape evaluations will be scheduled and conducted in July and August with homeowners and business owners available. Winning entries will receive a handmade mosaic stepping stone

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for homeowners or a plaque option for businesses. If you have questions regarding the Tampa Bay Water Community Water Wise Award program, please contact me at 744-5519 x 54105.

Today is a great time to complete and submit your application. For more information about the FloridaFriendly LandscapingTM Program, assistance with gardening and irrigation system-related questions, contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at 813-744-5519 and visit our website at: http://sfyl. ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/ for upcoming workshops. We hope to receive your entry soon! Thanks in advance for participating. Contact Lynn Barber at: barberL@hcflgov.net.

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GCREC FACULTY WELL REPRESENTED AT VIRTUAL AG TECH EXPO

By Jim Frankowiak

Five members of the faculty at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC) at Balm were presenters at the recent virtual Ag Tech Expo entitled “The Future of Farming.”

The two-day event also included a virtual trade show and was organized by Gene McAvoy, Associate Director for Stakeholder Relations at the UF/IFAS Southwest Florida Research and Education Center. He is also Regional Vegetable Extension Agent IV Emeritus, President of the Joint Council of Extension Professionals and Past President of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents.

“U.S. specialty crop producers compete in the global market place and they can no longer compete on the basis of cheap land or labor,” noted McAvoy. “They must compete on the basis of technology and innovation. Looking to the future, the world will have to produce more food in the next 50 years than we have in the last 10,000 years since civilization began and farmers will have to accomplish this with fewer resources and less environmental impact. Driven by innovation and new technology developed by the partnership between UF/IFAS, agricultural producers and related industries, agriculture will continue to provide jobs and support economic well-being in Florida,” he said.

“The developments in agricultural robotics, machine vision, ultra-precision farming, autonomous farming, artificial intelligence (AI) and genomics will drive a deep and far-reaching transformation of the way farming is carried out,” said McAvoy. “These technologies coupled with AI are enabling a revolution which will eventually upend familiar norms in agrochemical supply, food safety, payroll and labor management, agricultural machine design and farming practices.

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“This development frontier has the wind in its sails, pushed by rapidly advancing and sustainable hardware and software technology trends, and pulled by structural and growing challenges and needs,” he said. “In our assessment, these technology developments can no longer be dismissed as gimmicks or too futuristic. They are here to stay and will only grow in significance. Indeed, all players in the agricultural value chain will need to develop a strategy today to benefit from, or at least to safeguard against, this transformative trend.” The Ag Tech Expo featured visionary speakers and concurrent sessions on related topics such as: agricultural robotics, GPS guidance systems, variable rate technology, remote sensing, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) imagery use in agriculture production, UAS spray systems, computer based applications, genomics, gene editing, AI, Internet of Things (IoT), harvesting systems, computerized sorting and grading systems, record-keeping, food safety, produce traceability initiative, broadband and 5G technology and others.

GCREC faculty members and their presentation topics were: • Dr. Tong Geon Lee – CRISPR: A Technical Break-through for Crop Research • Dr. Samuel Hutton – Applications of Marker Assisted Selection in the UF/IFAS Tomato Breeding Program • Dr. Vance Whitaker – Genomic Prediction in Strawberry Breeding • Dr. Nathan Boyd – Weed Management for the Future • Dr. Natalia Peres – Ultraviolet Robot for Control of Powdery Mildew in Strawberry For access to individual GCREC presentations, visit: gcrec. ifas.ufl.edu and the presenter’s website.

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Tampa Bay Fishing Report May 2021 Capt. Woody Gore

Greenbacks – Whitebait – Scaled Sardines or Threadfin

Probably the number one live bait used in the bay area is a scaled sardine. Anglers call them greenbacks, whitebait, or sardines.

The proper angling name is Scaled Sardine, and the scientific name is Harengula Jaguana. A fast-growing, short-lived fish, it completes its life span in a little more than one year. They are common in both off-shore and near-shore waters.

Your best bet is bridges and most Tampa Bay grass flats.

The difference between a greenback and a threadfin? When you look at them side-by-side, it is not hard to distinguish one from the other. The Sardine has a slightly larger head and eye. And no ray from the dorsal fin. Olive to dark greenbacks, silver sides and belly and a faint dark spot on the upper gill plate. The threadfin is distinguishable by the prolonged last ray of its dorsal fin and with a bluish-black back, silver sides and belly.

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Capt. Woody Gore (www.captainwoodygore.com)

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Now that we understand what they are, how do you catch them? Some anglers use a Sabiki Rig on a rod and reel. This method works, but it’s time-consuming and limits the amount of bait you’ll have.

Others have learned to throw a cast net, allowing them to get several hundred in a single throw. Cast nets are not challenging to throw, but you will need onetime instruction and some practice.

If you’re planning on netting your bait, what do you use to attract them? Chum is the answer. The number one ingredient for any chum is oil, not any oil, but Menhaden fish oil. Here is a simple twoingredient sure-fire mixture, and it works every time. It is a combination of 45 percent fish food and a little menhaden fish oil.

Many feed stores carry fish food and your local tackle shop should have Menhaden oil. This mixture tends to appeal to greenbacks and not threadfins, and you’ll recognize the difference, as the greenbacks will be eating the mixture and threadfins swimming through it.

Many of our local tackle retailers sell cast nets, fish food, and Menhaden Oil. And just about anything else you need in the way of tackle, bait, and riggings. Unlike discount or sports stores, if they do not have what you are looking for, they will order it for you. They are also a great place to get current fishing reports, information, and recommendations on tackle.

If you just want to talk fishing, someone is usually around to spin a yarn or two. Stop in; visit your local tackle dealer soon.

Let’s Go Fishing in Tampa Bay: Snook: The Tampa Bay Snook bite’s been excellent. Greenbacks, Shrimp, Pinfish, and artificial lures by working, the WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

topwater lures early in the morning.

Redfish: Redfish are

popping up all over the bay and pushing into shallower water as the tide rises.

As always, large schools of mullet are good places to find redfish. They are either inside the school or behind it.

Greenbacks, small pinfish, shrimp, and those like pitching soft plastics and topwater around the mangroves can expect some great action on high incoming tides.

“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing”

813-477-3814

Capt. Woody Gore operates Tampa Bay’s #1 Outdoor Fishing Guide Services. Guiding and fishing Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater areas for over fifty years, he offers first-class customer service, family-oriented charters, and a lifetime of memories.

Visit his website at www.captainwoodygore.com or send an email to fishing@captainwoodygore. com or give him a call at 813-477-3814.

Member: ​FOWA-Florida Outdoor Writers Assoc., MemberSEOPA Southeastern Outdoor Press Assoc. CEO/Pres.

Sport-Fishing Unlimited & Outdoor Communications, Outdoor Writer & Speaker

Spotted Sea Trout

Some good catches on incoming or outgoing tides around deep water flats are producing fish to 22 inches. As always, live freelined greenback or shrimp are the best baits for trout. Using topwater popping plugs or soft plastic jerk baits while fishing broken bottom grass flats. Especially the grassy potholes can offer artificial anglers some excellent trout action.

Mackerel, Sharks, Cobia, and Kings

The giant Mackerel are in the bay, and fishing should only get better as the water warms and the Threadfins begin schooling. Capt.

Kevin Overstreet caught a couple of excellent Cobias while fishing the bay towers and buoys.

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2% Farm and ranch families comprise just 2 percent of the U.S. population.

Today’s farmers produce 262 percent more food with 2 percent fewer inputs (labor, seeds, feed, fertilizer, etc.), compared with 1950.

Farmers and ranchers receive only 16 cents out of every dollar spent on food at home and away from home. The rest goes for costs beyond the farm gate: wages and materials for production, processing, marketing, transportation and distribution. In 1980, farmers and ranchers received 31 cents.

Careful stewardship by farmers has spurred a nearly 50 percent decline in erosion of cropland by wind and water since 1982.

More than half of America’s farmers intentionally provide habitat for wildlife. Deer, moose, fowl and other species have shown significant population increases for decades.

Farmers, ranchers and other landowners have installed more than 2 million miles of conservation buffers under farm bill initiatives. Buffers improve soil, air and water quality; enhance wildlife habitat; and create scenic landscapes.

Farmers have enrolled a total of 31 million acres in the Conservation Reserve Program to protect the environment and provide habitat for wildlife. Since its inception in 1985, the program has helped reduce soil erosion by 622 million tons and restored more than 2 million acres of wetlands.

In 2010, $115 billion worth of American agricultural products were exported around the world. The United States sells more food and fiber to world markets than we import, creating a positive agricultural trade balance. www.fb.org

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Sponsored by:

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1971

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR Editor’s Note: This Rocking Chair Chatter was originally printed in the May 2014 issue

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Technology I have been into electronics most all my life. To the best of my memory it started when I was about 12 years old. I recall stringing a copper wire with a tin can on each end between our houses over to Pat Sweeney, my next door neighbor. We would talk to each other by speaking into the can. I don’t think it really worked, but we made a project out of it. The best thing that came from it was the birds would perch on it, and we would then make a list of all the different ones.

Over the years everything has change in the electronic world of communication. I was discussing the change with a couple of old timers at the Sawmill Restaurant in Blairsville, Georgia recently. Rufus Jasper had just purchased his first cell phone, and was trying to get some help from Buster McCraw, who knew as much about the phone as Rufus. Buster said he heard where some construction men dug a trench that was 12 feet deep in Ellijay, a neighboring city, and found pieces of comer wire dating back almost a hundred years. He said they concluded that the city’s ancestors already had a telephone network back then.

Gertrude the waitress overheard the story and said she had just read where some archaeologists dug to a depth of 50 feet on Brasstown Bald, and found traces of old copper wire. She said her family had lived in Brasstown forever, and she believes that their ancestors already had an advanced high-tech communication network at least 100 years earlier than the one in Ellijay.

Bubba, sitting at the next table downing four scrambled eggs, six pieces of toast, and at least a pound of grits, along with who knows how much bacon, joined in and said he had just read an article in the newspaper where someone was digging a well in Sam Johnson’s pasture off Old Owltown road there in Blairsville, and found absolutely nothing down to a depth of 100 feet. Bubba said they concluded that 300 years ago, Blairsville had already gone wireless.

I have had some interesting things happen to me over the past few years with my cell phone. I recall stopping at a rest stop on I-75 to use the rest room. I went to the men’s room. The first stall was taken so I went to the second one. As soon as I sat down I heard the voice in the next stall say, “Hi there, how is it going?” Well, I am not usually one to strike up a conversation while sitting on a commode at rest stop on I-75. I paused a moment and said, “I’m doing okay.” He replies, “So, what are you doing?” Now this is getting a bit weird, but I replied, “I’m headed back to Plant City, Florida…” Then I hear the person get a little upset, and he said, “Look let me call you back. Every time I ask you a question this screwball in the next stall keeps answering me.”

Here’s how to tell if you are addicted to your cell phone. Do you use the menu light as your nightlight? When getting into a car accident, is your first response, “Can you wait a minute, I’m bleeding?” Does raising your children interfere with programming your cell phone?

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I read the other day where a woman was buried with a cell phone in her casket to keep her connected to the departed world. They said it was put on vibrate in order to not disturb others buried nearby with the ringing. I suppose next the phone companies will have no roll-over

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minutes, unlimited casket conference calling and hands free dialing.

I can hear the conversation now, “I can’t hear you, my phone went dead. Call me back you’re breaking up, I think I am in a dead zone.”

And for a Jay Leno moment, “no roaming charges.”

Did you hear the story about the man frantically speaking into his cell phone: “My wife is pregnant and her contractions are only two minutes apart!” “Is this her first child?” the doctor asked. “No, you idiot!” the man replied. “This is her husband!”

I can’t verify this next story or not, but it all started with a phone call to the Florida Department of Agriculture. A farmer was told he could get paid for not raising hogs by the government. So he called the Dept. of Agriculture, and they suggested he write a letter and explain to them what he wanted.

The letter read: My friends, Arnie and Jessica, over in Bartow, received a check the other day for $1,000 from the government for not raising hogs. So, I want to go into the “not raising hogs” business myself next year.

What I want to know is, in your opinion, what is the best type of farm not to raise hogs on, and what is the best breed of hogs not to raise? I want to be sure that I approach this endeavor in keeping with all government policies. I would prefer not to raise Razor Back hogs, but if that is not a good breed not to raise, then I can just as easily not raise Yorkshires or Durocs. As I see it, the hardest part of this program will be keeping an accurate inventory of how many hogs I haven’t raised.

My friend Arnie is very excited about the future of this business. He has been raising hogs for 20 years and the most he ever made was $420 in 1978, until this year, when he got your check for $1,000 for not raising hogs. If I can get $1,000 for not raising 50 hogs, will I get $2,000 for not raising 100 hogs? I plan to operate on a small scale at first, holding myself down to about 4,000 “not raised” hogs, which will give me $80,000 income the first year. Then I can buy a real big boat and a cottage on Lake Marion. Now another thing: these hogs I will not raise will not eat 100,000 bushels of corn. I understand that you also pay farmers for not raising corn and wheat. Will I qualify for payments for not raising wheat and corn not to feed the 4,000 hogs I am not going to raise? I want to get started not feeding as soon as possible, as this seems to be a good time of the year to not raise hogs and grain. I am also considering the “not milking cows” business, so please send me any information on that also. In view of these circumstances, I understand that the government will consider me totally unemployed, so I plan to file for unemployment and food stamps as well.

Be assured that you will have my vote in the coming elections.

Thank you, Jack & Arlene PS: Would you please notify me when you plan to distribute more free cheese?

Until next month, remember to make peace with your past so it won’t screw up the present.

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AI COULD REDUCE THE AMOUNT FARMERS SPRAY TO CONTROL STRAWBERRY PEST

By Brad Buck

photo shows a twospotted spider mite.

"Courtesy, UF/IFAS."

Artificial intelligence that might use smartphone images could lead to more accurate, early detection of a pest that ruins strawberries, a $300 million dollar-a-year industry in Florida.

University of Florida scientists have developed a smartphone app to detect the twospotted spider mite. With quicker detection, the system would let farmers use lower levels of chemicals that might otherwise harm the environment. As it stands, most growers spray regularly, perhaps as often as every week.

“The twospotted spider mite is one of the major pest problems in strawberry production, and its manual detection is labor-intensive and time-consuming,” said Daniel Lee, the lead researcher on the project that is funded by a $491,000 grant received in 2019 from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. “Since everybody has a smartphone, we thought we could develop an automated way to detect twospotted spider mites, using a smartphone and artificial intelligence.”

The technology is still two to three years from being usable by farmers, said Lee, a UF/IFAS professor of agricultural and biological engineering. For now, scientists are fine-tuning the technology.

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UF/IFAS researchers are investigating whether a smartphone will work to identify mites. If they find that method works, farmers will magnify images as they take pictures of strawberry leaves, said Lee.

dent camera and computing board, instead of a smartphone, Lee said.

Thus far, researchers have successfully tested an algorithm to detect mites using a smartphone. But that’s very preliminary data, and it will take at least two to three years before they know for sure if the technology works.

Either method would give growers an automated system to count the mites, replacing the current, manual counting system.

Twospotted spider mites are a mighty destructive pest, causing $28 million to $34 million of damage on Florida crops annually, said Oscar Liburd, a UF/IFAS professor of entomology and a co-investigator on Lee’s research team. It costs between $3 million and $5 million and can be even more if the grower’s management system is set up on a weekly basis, Liburd said.

Liburd gives a single-farm example. For a 50-acre farm, every time the grower does not spray reduces production costs by $4,000 to $5,000, depending on the chemical you use.

This translates to environmental benefits as well. It’s hard to quantify natural resource preservation into dollar figures, but pesticides that kills mites can harm beneficial insects, such as pollinators, and can contaminate ground water, Liburd said.

Then, they label images to train deep learning networks, a form of artificial intelligence, to recognize the mites. Once the networks are trained, they can be used to identify the pests.

“The ability to do surveillance on the twospotted spider mite population, using smartphone technology, will improve monitoring efficiency,” Liburd said. “The use of smartphones will significantly reduce the frequency of sprays since growers will only be spraying when mites are present.”

Additionally, because every smartphone has a different camera and computing capabilities, scientists are thinking about creating a “detection box” that would consist of an indepen-

In the NIFA-funded project, researchers from the University of California are also developing technology to speed up the process of identifying twospotted spider mites in nuts.

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WATER-SAVING TIPS FOR RESIDENTS

The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) is encouraging residents to do their part to save water in and around their homes.

Here are some tips from the District to lower your monthly water bill and save hundreds of gallons of water: • Ensure rain sensors are operating properly. Irrigating during or after significant rainfall is a major cause of outdoor water waste and can cost you money.

• Check that all irrigation spray nozzles or sprinklers are irrigating areas efficiently and effectively.

Check for broken leaky heads and reduce overspray. Inspection and maintenance should be done quarterly.

• Upgrade to a WaterSense® labeled smart irrigation controller, which can reduce irrigation use by up to 23% and put more money back in your pocket.

• Switch to WaterSense® labeled products including indoor showerheads, bathroom faucets and toilets to save hundreds of gallons of water a week.

• Consider updating appliances like dishwashers and washing machines to Energy Star rated products. This can significantly cut back your water use.

• Check with your water utility for rebates and incentives.

For more information about water conservation, please visit: WaterMatters.org/Conservation.

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Not Your Average Farm

By Libby Hopkins

Stalk & Vine on 39 is a 10 acre bio-intensive market farm in Lithia that provides seasonal vegetables, herbs, peaches and flowers to the Riverview, Brandon, Plant City and Lithia area.

The farm is owned and operated by Patrick Strickland and his wife, Carla. Patrick is no stranger to farming. His family is one of the biggest watermelon growers in the county. “I grew up in the agriculture world,” Patrick said. “My grandfather was the agriculture director for St. Leo College. He also ended up being a Benedictine Monk.”

Patrick’s grandfather, Judson V. Francis studied to be a Catholic priest, but left school to work for United States Sugar Corporation. Two years later, he married Mildred Ward.

Through the years they were married, Judson worked for U.S.S.C., Alico, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Navy. From 1954-58, he served as the District 3 Hendry County School Board and in 1957, he joined the Federal Department of Agriculture as the Executive Director of Lee, Charlotte, Collier and Hendry Counties for the U. S. Agriculture and Conservation Service. He also hosted a daily television program for the local CBS and NBC stations in Fort Myers.

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Judson helped establish Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church in LaBelle and the Immokalee Mission Chapel. In fact, from 1945 through 1950, Sunday Mass was said in his family home. It was later moved to the old LaBelle Theater.

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When Mildred passed away in 1972, Judson went to St. Leo’s Abbey in Dade City and on Sept. 15, 1973 he donned the habit of a Benedictine Monk. He assisted the Abbot with agricultural and public relations for the monastery at St. Leo College.

He passed away on February 13, 1978.

You can definitely say agriculture is in Patrick’s blood. It’s in is blood so much that he wanted to provide his community with all-natural, chemical and preservative-free produce. “We saw the demand in the FishHawk for high quality fruits and vegetables, so we decided to expand our little garden we had at our place,” Patrick said. “We have been small scale growing for more than 10 years. In 2019 we fully committed to Stalk & Vine on 39, a market farm providing the Lithia and surrounding communities with veggies. You can find our harvest on market days or become a member of our community supported agriculture program.”

So what exactly is a market farm? A market farm is also called a micro-farm, which is a small plot of land where fruits, vegetables and flowers are grown and sold to the public. The crops are grown as cash crops. Market farms are typically from one to a few acres in size. Many consist of large greenhouses, or a combination of plants grown both indoors and outdoors.

Most market farms grow and supply fresh produce through the local growing season. Unlike large scale farms, they generally have a wide range of crops and are less industrially inWWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

tensive crops that are picked or harvested using manual labor, with gardening rather than intensive farming techniques. (marketbusinessnews.com/financial-glossary/market-garden/) “They can come see where their food is grown and meet the people who are going their food,” Patrick said.

Patrick is also a Veteran who believes strongly in supporting his local community. He has a big heart for helping others. “Giving back and being able to make a living by giving people something that is very beneficial is a great motivator for us to work hard at our market farm,” Patrick said. “We donate a portion of our harvest to local food banks. We are a small farm with big goals. Our customers and the community have continuously offered encouragement and support to us as well. Growing is not limited to just the plantings, getting to meet friends and tightening the bond with old ones through our wholesome offerings has been such a pleasure to connect with our community. This is what it’s all about and why we do what we do.”

If you would like to learn more about Stalk and Vine on 39, you can visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/StalkVine-on-39 or call Patrick at (813) 426-5367. Stalk and Vine on 39 is located at 14923 S. County Rd. 39 in Lithia.

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LOOSE LIVESTOCK:

A DANGEROUS ROAD BLOCK Sheriff Chad Chronister

Incidents of loose livestock are on the rise in Hillsborough County. Animals found wandering in neighborhoods and on local highways is not only a safety issue for the animals themselves but also the drivers who use these roads to get from place to place on a daily basis.

From January 1, 2020, to April 22, 2020, there were 488 incidents of loose livestock found in roadways. However, during that same time frame in 2021, there were 584 cases of the same nature, a 20% increase from the year prior. In total, there were 1,394 cases of loose livestock located on roadways in 2020. The current trend suggests 2021 is on track for more than 1,500 potential incidents in Hillsborough County.

logs, post and railing, steel or other material, and not less than five feet high.

• Monitor your fence. Check it daily for any cracks or openings where an animal could potentially break free from its surroundings, especially after bad weather. Fencing should be upright, secure, and able to contain livestock.

• Provide clean water and plenty of grass to graze. Not enough grass? Make sure to have hay on hand.

Livestock in roadways can tie up several HCSO patrol units, and Agricultural Crimes Units, at one time. Just last month, four cattle were found roaming in Ruskin near the intersection of Saffold Road and U.S. 301. It took deputies several hours to round up the cows and bring them back to the owners.

In an effort to more quickly identify and return loose livestock to their owners, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is now offering a program that will allow people to register their livestock with the agency. Information entered into the registration program is strictly voluntary. It is available in English and in Spanish. To register, visit www.teamhcso.com, and click the “Online Registration Services” tab under “Services” located on the main page. The program is called “Livestock Registration.”

“Loose livestock has the potential to become a major traffic hazard,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Not only can it back up traffic for miles, but it can truly become a life or death situation for drivers and the animals. Let’s all do our part to make sure we do everything we possibly can to secure these animals to ensure the safety of both the public and the animals.”

Anyone with information about an agricultural crime or a loose animal is asked to call (813) 247-8200. You can also stay updated with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office by following @HCSOSheriff on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

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To help prevent animals from escaping their pastures, deputies are offering this advice to livestock owners: • Per Florida statute, fencing should be constructed with rails,

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NEWS BRIEFS

Compiled by Jim Frankowiak

Gov. DeSantis Signs “Right to Farm” Bill into Law; Other Legislative Action

COVID-19 Resources on Florida Farm Bureau Website

Florida Farm Bureau has developed a COVID-19 resources website page that includes a variety of agricultural and state and federal links related to the pandemic. The site is continually updated and can be accessed at: floridafarmbureau.org/ covid-19-resources/.

EDIS Now Known as AskIFAS The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) has renamed its Electronic Data Information Service (EDIS). The publication system’s public site is now known as AskIFAS and is accessible at https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu.

The new site offers streamlined editing and reviewing EDIS editor processes; easier access to Extension publications, a side panel on EDIS article pages providing added information, including contact name (s), publication type and audience; and fosters seamless movement between Ask IFAS and other IFAS web resources.

Lawsuits based on Odor, Flies, smoke or dust.

Florida now has a very strong Right to Farm Law that -- once it goes into effect July 1 -- will provide broad protection from nuisance lawsuits and be a strong deterrent against frivolous legal actions in the future. This was Florida Farm Bureau’s highest priority for the just-ended legislative session.

A bill updating the Bert J. Harris, Jr., Private Property Rights Protection was also passed. It streamlines the process used by landowners who seek relief when their property is unfairly affected by government action. The bill also enables landowners who prevail in a Harris Act claim to recover attorney’s fees.

University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) received full funding for Workload, nearly $1.7 million for a Fertilizer Rate Study and full funding for the existing program in the education and programs in the education and agriculture budgets.

Largemouth Bass legislation was passed that would allow the sale of Large-Mouth Bass to be sold as food fish by Florida aquaculture producers, allowing them to compete in a national market where demand for this species continues to grow. This change will also allow Florida restaurants to add this product to their menus.

Farm Bureau Annual Meeting October 7

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The 2021 Hillsborough County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting has been set for Thursday, October 7, and will take place at the Florida Strawberry Festival meeting facility. Please mark your calendar now!

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John Deere Offering Extra Savings for Farm Bureau Members through May 31 John Deere is offering extra savings for Farm Bureau members who sign up for John Deer Rewards by May 31. This free temporary upgrade to Platinum 2 savings is valid for only 60 days after registration. Sign up for a John Deere Rewards account at JohnDeere.com/FarmBureau to take advantage of this offer and to learn of loyalty rewards that combine with national discounts.

Farm Bureau 2021 Youth Speech Contest Topic and Rules Available The topic and rules for the 2021 Florida Farm Bureau Youth Speech Contest are now available. Contestants must be at least 14 years of age and not more than age 18 as of September 10, 2021. To learn of the topic, contest rules and other information, visit: https://www.floridafarmbureau.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/youth-speech-contest-packet-2021. pdf.

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2021

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS “The Best of the Best” 1ST Place - $1500 Cash Award AUSTIN HOLCOMB FROM LITHIA 2nd Place Champion of Champions Payton Davis from Ocala 3rd Place Champion of Champions Anna Tsemba from Archer 4th Place Champion of Champions Samantha Harper from Palatka 5th Place Champion of Champions Mary Babione from Brooksville

Intermediate Champion – Amaryllis Hallaert from Sarasota 4th place Senior Champion – Samantha Carr from Auburndale 3rd place Senior Champion – Elizabeth Vannoy from Dunnellon 2nd place Senior Champion – Hailey Jones from Sarasota Champion Youth for Dog Show – Danielle Miller from Plant City Youth Llama Junior Champion – Ireland Greeley from O’Brien

6th Place Champion of Champions Nathanael Monroe from Floral City

Intermediate Champion – Daniel Greeley from O’Brien

Mosaic Scholarship Winners The winner of the $1,500 Scholarship is:

3rd place Senior Champion – Karly Jameison from Wesley Chapel

Jacqueline Cupo from Dade City Florida State Fair Foundation Scholarship Winners The winners of the $1,000 Scholarship are:

Austin Holcomb from Lithia Jamie LaPage from Orlando

4th place Senior Champion – Madison Young from Live Oak

2nd place Senior Champion – Cydnee Jonas from Wesley Chapel Champion Youth for Llama Show – Maggie Jordan from Nokomis Youth Rabbit

Intermediate Champion – James Kulman from St. Cloud 4th place Senior Champion – Nathanael Monroe from Floral City 3rd place Senior Champion – Samantha Harper from Palatka

Hailey Peterson from Mayo

2nd place Senior Champion – Mary Babione from Brooksville

Kelly Swain from Belle Isle

Champion Youth for Rabbit Show – Kelly Anne Swain from Belle Isle

Barrett Young from Branford

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Youth Steer Jan Dillard Memorial Scholarship Winner The winner of the $1,000 Scholarship is:

Intermediate Champion – Chloe Davis from Ocala

Charlee Hines from High Springs

4th place Senior Champion – Anna Tsemba from Archer

Jeanette Barthle Memorial Scholarship Winner

3rd place Senior Champion – Gabe Mitchell from Trenton

The winner of the $1,000 Scholarship is:

2nd place Senior Champion – Jamie LaPage from Orlando

Kallie Johnson from Palatka

Champion Youth for Steer Show – Payton Davis from Ocala

CHAMPION YOUTH WINNERS

Youth Dairy

Youth Dog

Junior Champion – Avery Best from Lakeland

Junior Champion – Gemma Eldridge from St. Petersburg

Intermediate Champion – Kathryn Montes De Oca from

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Okeechobee 4th place Senior Champion – Anna Tsemba from Archer 3rd place Senior Champion – Austin Holcomb from Lithia 2nd place Senior Champion – Jenna Larson from Okeechobee Champion Youth for Dairy Show – Keara O’Mahoney from Venice

Youth Poultry Junior Champion – Amelia Zeleznock from Wesley Chapel Intermediate Champion – Imogen Lanzetta from Lithia 4th place Senior Champion – Ayden Evans from Tampa

Champion Youth for Swine Show – Charleigh Wood from Lakeland

Youth Beef Junior Champion – Julie Portillo from Deltona

Intermediate Champion – Mia Portillo from Deltona 4th place Senior Champion – Payge Dupre from Kathleen 3rd place Senior Champion – Kamryn Poole from Winter Garden 2nd place Senior Champion – Austin Holcomb from Lithia Champion Youth for Beef Show – Spencer Baylor from Plant City

3rd place Senior Champion – Jessica Balcom from Riverview

Youth Sheep

2nd place Senior Champion – Marisol De La Cruz from Tampa

Junior Champion – Hunter Roof from Oak Hill

Champion Youth for Poultry Show – Mary Babione from Brooksvile

Intermediate Champion – Mia Portillo from Deltona

Youth Goat

4th place Senior Champion – Payton Smith from DeLeon Springs

Junior Champion – Nehemiah Perdomo from San Antonio

Intermediate Champion – Dylan Walden from Dade City

3rd place Senior Champion – Tyler Watson from Lake Helen

4th place Senior Champion – Stephanie Johnson from Zephyrhills 3rd place Senior Champion – Amelia Sauls from Winter Garden

2nd place Senior Champion – Ashlyn Miller from New Smyrna Beach Champion Youth for Sheep Show – Megan Christopher from Deland

2nd place Senior Champion – Jamie LaPage from Orlando Champion Youth for Goat Show – Ashlyn Miller from New Smyrna Beach Youth Swine Junior Champion – Easton Howell from DeLeon Springs Intermediate Champion – Maggie Mosley from Green Cove Springs 4th place Senior Champion – Taylor Waller from Inverness 3rd place Senior Champion – Payton Davis from Ocala 2nd place Senior Champion – Megan Christopher from Deland

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CHEST PRESSURE

CAUTION NARROWED ARTERIES AHEAD

Chest pressure, a squeezing sensation or chest pain.

These feelings may be angina, a symptom of heart disease.

Your heart comes with a warning system called angina, which happens when part of the heart doesn’t get enough blood and oxygen. Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD), a type of heart disease that occurs when arteries that carry blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. Although angina often feels like a pinching sensation in the chest, it can also be accompanied by sluggishness, fatigue and chest tightness. If you experience any of these symptoms, the heart experts at BayCare’s South Florida Baptist Hospital can quickly get to the cause and treat it with a procedure that’s right for you.

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Diagnosing and treating CAD is just one area of our expertise in heart care. Using state-of-the-art technology, our compassionate and multidisciplinary team of experts provides a suite of other advanced heart care services. From treatment options for rhythm disorders like AFib and heart attacks, care for advanced heart failure through our Heart Function Clinic, to helping you recover with cardiac rehab, South Florida Baptist Hospital is here when you and your heart need us. And we have enhanced safety measures to help keep you protected, so you can feel secure getting the care you need. Learn more and get a cardiology referral: SouthFloridaBaptistHeart.org

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FLorida CELERIAC

By Sandy Sun, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science Celeriac, also called celery root, turnip-rooted celery, or knob celery, is a delicious root vegetable with a taste and texture that resembles potatoes with a hint of celery. The edible portion is the knobby stem that forms beneath the soil surface.

The root is knobby and covered with a thin brown skin. It typically measures three to four inches in diameter. The edible portion is the interior white flesh, which is smooth and creamy in texture.

Iron is also required as a cofactor for a number of enzymes that converts the nutrients we eat into energy.

Antioxidants Fresh Florida celeriac is full of antioxidants in many forms, including vitamins A, E, and E. These compounds help provide anti-inflammatory effects, which is beneficial in warding off many major diseases.

Celeriac is available year round but at its best during the cooler months. The taste is delicious and mild, with a slightly sweet and mild celery flavor. Like other root vegetables, it can last for months if stored properly and not allowed to dry out.

Celeriac can be enjoyed raw, roasted, stewed, blanched, or mashed.

These antioxidants are particularly beneficial in protecting blood vessels from oxidative stress, which results in atherosclerosis and high blood pressure. Vitamin A and the carotenoids are especially important for good eye health, offering protection to the retina and macula.

NUTRITIONAL PROFILE

Shop for firm, unblemished celery roots that feel heavy for their size, with a greenish blush. Store in the fridge, unpeeled, in an unsealed plastic bag, with a dry paper towel to absorb excess moisture, for up to three weeks.

Celeriac is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s high in fiber and various vitamins and minerals. It’s also low in carbs, making it the perfect alternative to potatoes.

According to the USDA, a cup serving of fresh celery root (156g) contains 66 calories, 15 g of carbohydrate, 2.8 g of fiber, 0.5 g of fat, and 2 g of protein. It also contains significant amounts of vitamin C, iron, calcium, phosphorus, zinc and fiber.

Vitamin C A single serving of celeriac contains 21% of your daily needs for vitamin C. This vitamin is needed for growth and repair of all tissues in your body, including skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. It helps your body maintain healthy cartilage, bones, and teeth, as well as promotes wound healing.

Vitamin C also helps you absorb iron better. There is some research to support that vitamin C may also reduce the duration and severity of the common cold.

Iron Celeriac is a great vegetarian source of iron. Iron is essential for blood production and many other important functions in the body. It is involved in carrying oxygen from the lungs to all the tissues in the body. Insufficient iron from the diet can lead to anemia, which is a reduction of hemoglobin in the blood.

How to Enjoy

Celeriac may be used raw or fresh. Since it has the celery flavor, it is often used as a flavoring in soups and stews. Wash immediately before use. Trim roots and peel celeriac before cooking or eating.

Other ways to enjoy this nutritious vegetable include: • Roasted with olive oil, salt and pepper • Saute with olive oil and herbs • Boil and mash as you would potatoes • Sliced and cooked in an air fryer • Tossed into a stew or soup • Grated and eaten raw in salad or with hummus Fresh Florida celeriac is a nutritious and delicious root vegetable.

SELECTED REFERENCES http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu

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How to Select and Store

GCREC ORGANIC FARM HELPING TO MEET GROWER NEEDS AND MORE

By Jim Frankowiak

The global organic food market is undergoing rapid expansion and the fruit and vegetable segment is anticipated to grow substantially, according to a variety of sources. This represents an opportunity for Florida growers, particularly berry growers. Consequently, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Services (UF/IFAS) Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC) has developed a 20-acre organic farm at its 475-acre location at Balm in south central Hillsborough County over the past two years to respond to grower needs tied to growing organic market.

That is consistent with the GCREC’s vision and mission which is to “develop and disseminate new scientific knowledge and technology that will assist Florida’s producers to be competitive, both nationally and in the world economy,” said Center Director Dr. Jack Rechcigl.

“So far, we have focused on strawberry production primarily because that is the crop with the largest organic acreage in our area and the area where we feel we could have the greatest impact,” said Dr. Nathan Boyd, Associate Center Director and Associate Professor or Horticulture. A recent UF Institutional Review Board (IRB) - approved survey of major strawberry growers in Florida, conducted by Dr. Sriyanka Lahiri, Assistant Professor of Entomology at the GCREC, during August-September 2019, indicated that the acreage of organically grown strawberries is on the rise. Lahiri personally met with 24 participating strawberry growers to assess their entomological research needs. Their responses indicated that approximately 26 percent of Florida strawberry growers have anywhere between one – to - 15 percent of strawberry production under organic management and an additional four percent of strawberry growers have 20- to - 25 percent of their strawberry acreage under organic management.”

“Long-term, we plan to grow a whole range of vegetable crops certified to meet guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture,” said Boyd. Those guideline are complex “but in essence they focus on the use of non-chemical fertilizers, pest management without synthetic pesticides, non-GMO (genetically modified organism), soil health, use of integrated managements systems and more.

“A concise definition (of organic production) from the USDA (U. S. Department of Agriculture) is: a system that integrates ‘cultural, biological and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance and serve biodiversity,’” said Boyd. The GCREC’s organic farm land “is certified organic and our hope is that it will become a research and training resource for organic growers in the region.” The certified organic land is cover cropped with cowpeas.

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“The farm was started approximately two years ago with the intent to address the needs of organic strawberry growers in

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the region as well as promote organic production in Florida,” said Boyd. “We are hoping to connect with organic growers and let them tell us the issues they are facing so our research can be driven by the needs of the growers.”

“Thus far, I have conducted weed management trials in row middles and we have proven that adequate weed management can be maintained in row middles using organic techniques,” he said. “We plan to look at nutrient cycling in organic systems, insect management, nematode management using organic products, weed management with cover crops and robots as well as other areas.” Boyd’s GCREC faculty colleague Dr. Johan Desaeger, Assistant Professor of Entomology and Nematology, has conducted several strawberry trials the past two years.

“That has included evaluating OMRI-(Organic Materials Review Institute) approved biological nematicides, comparing strawberry cultivars and evaluating the effect of treating transplants with steam prior to planting,” said Desaeger. “Results from the nematicide trials were inconclusive as nematode pressure the first year was very low, suggesting it will probably take a few years to build up the nematode population. We did run simultaneous experiments in the GCREC greenhouse with the same products which will give us some more conclusive results.”

“Brilliance was generally the highest yielding cultivar in the organic compared to Beauty with Sensation somewhere in between,” Desaeger added. “Steam-treated transplants generally yielded better than non-steamed plants. We just planted a squash double-crop (two cultivars) in an old organic strawberry bed which showed significant (sting) nematode damage. This is our first organic vegetable trial.”

Additionally, Lahiri is conducting a Chilli Thrips IPM (Integrated Pest Management) Project at the farm which has shown: •Adult and larval chilli thrips suppression achieved by spraying ‘Entrust SC’ •Larval control by: Predatory mite, Neoseiulus cucumeris, Entomopathogenic Nematode (EPN), Steinernema feltiae & Heterorhabiditis bacteriophara, Captiva Prime and Azera •Effect of a second application of these treatments, sevendays apart is being investigated.

“Organic research in Florida has been a slow process so far, and with the new organic farm we hope to generate more interest among growers, researchers and Extension Agents,” said Desaeger. “Once COVID restrictions are gone, we also plan to have organic field days.”

More information on the GCREC organic farm is available by visiting: gcrec.ifas.ufl.edu.

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Rainwater harvesting: Now’s a good time to ready, set and capture

By Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly Landscaping TM Agent, UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County

If you haven’t attended a rainwater harvesting workshop with our office, you should. It’s that time of year again when the rains commence and we can most certainly take advantage of the season. Rainwater harvesting is a great way to capture and utilize this free resource.

We offer rainwater harvesting workshops, where participants learn how to set up their rain barrel, connect more than one barrel and install overflow accommodations. Instructions regarding safety considerations, maintenance and painting barrels are also presented.

Rain barrels are devices that collect rainwater used mainly for landscape irrigation. These devices reduce stormwater runoff and erosion because they catch and contain it. Rain barrels decrease the amount of potable water used for landscape irrigation because you use the water you capture to irrigate your plants.

Rainwater harvesting is important because one inch of rain on a 1,000 square foot roof yields 623 gallons of water. Florida’s annual precipitation average is 54.57 inches. Each of us could harvest more than 34,000 gallons.

That’s why participants are taught how to make their own rain barrel, because one is definitely not enough. Past workshop attendees have said that since attending this training, they have purchased additional rain barrels from feed stores or on-line. Also, they love the conservation aspects of rainwater harvesting and are glad to do their part in decreasing stormwater runoff and erosion.

Most wish they had more barrels.

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Attend a rainwater harvesting workshop with our office and learn another water conservation method. We also teach three types of microirrigation (traditional, patio/container and vegetable garden). Follow your homeowner association architectural control or landscape committee procedures before you incorporate changes in your landscapes. To register for rainwater harvesting and other workshops in Hillsborough County, please go to: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/. We provide one rain barrel per household which has been drilled and spigoted. Some rules apply. As always, remember to reduce, reuse, recycle and repeat. Each of us can make an environmental difference. Contact Lynn Barber at labarber@ufl.edu.

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CROP INSURANCE: IT PAYS TO MANAGE YOUR RISK When you purchase risk management coverage with Farm Credit of Central Florida, we return a portion of our commission as patronage dividends to eligible stockholders.

Patronage dividends could help lower the cost of insurance premiums, saving you money as you manage your risk.

Farm Credit of Central Florida is glad to discuss how we can save you money on your crop insurance with patronage dividends. Feel free to contact our crop insurance specialist, Regina Thomas, at 407.721.4687 or rthomas@farmcreditcfl.com.

Patronage dividend distribution is subject to eligibility. Certain limitations, conditions, and exclusions apply for crop insurance. Please refer to the policy for more details.

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TRINITY SPORTSMAN MINISTRIES:

Sharing the Message of Jesus Christ through Quality Outdoor Hunting and Fishing Experiences By Jim Frankowiak

You might ask the question: What does the bow and arrow have to do with teaching the word of the Lord? The bow and arrow is mentioned in the Bible not just once, but about 160 times. “Trinity Sportsman Ministries draws from this resource to teach students biblical truth while teaching them archery,” said Ministry Founder Dennis Pawlowski.

Founded as a non-profit organization in 2005, TSM has as its vision “to have a place to take kids and adults to – a camp-like setting – with the purpose of sharing Christ with them,” said Pawlowski. The impetus for the mission came from Pawlowski’s personal experience and affinity for the outdoor life, archery, hunting and the desire to own land. “There was some anxiety, too,” he said.

“The Lord guided me from a self-centered desire to a ministry serving others in a special way that is manifest in Trinity Sportsman Ministries.

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He notes that the goal of every archer is to hit the bullseye. “When we don’t hit the center of the target, it is often referred to as ‘Missing the Mark’. In the Bible, the most used word in the original language for sin is hamartia. Paul used the word hamartano, saying ‘For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.’ We can try as hard as we want, but we will continue to Miss the Mark. Because God’s standard is perfection (bullseye), anything less than perfect is considered ‘Missing

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the Mark’. The Good News is that Jesus was willing to die on the cross for our sins. He paid the price so that we can be forgiven through His blood that was shed on a cross over 2,000 years ago. Today, we can receive forgiveness and eternal life through placing our faith in Jesus Christ alone.”

“We had no land and no money to pursue this calling; however, God is good and He has paid for my education, providing me with a degree in Natural Resource Conservation from the University of Florida,” he said.

“This degree, along with shorts courses from the Quality Deer Management Association (Deer Steward 1 and 2) would allow me to manage the land the Lord would eventually provide.”

TSM archery clinics, which are attended by both youth and adults, use the same archery equipment as the National Archery in the Schools Program. The ministry has expanded its clinics to include some where fishing is the focus. Pawlowski, who has been a member of the Plant City Police Department for more than 26 years and is Accreditation and Grants Manager, notes that the ministry is a 501©(3) organization exempt from federal income tax organized and operated exclusively for religious purposes. Any donations given to the ministry are tax deductible. TSM is governed by a volunteer board and volunteers assist with all of its programming. “We WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

are pleased to note that all donations to our ministry serve the ministry,” said Pawlowski, a member of First Baptist Church of Plant City along with his wife Stephanie and sons Noah and Nathan.

Archery clinics typically take place over a three-tofour-week timeframe. Participants meet for an hour of instruction. Students have a choice to participate in the basic or advanced classes. “Each course builds the skills needed to become a better archer,” said Pawlowski. “This is achieved through skill drills and games while providing biblical truth to the students.” Archery equipment is provided, although students can bring their own equipment once a TSM staff member inspects the equipment and confirms that the student has a basic operation of the bow.

The TSM Basic Archery Beginner Clinic is for ages 6 to adults. “We go through the parts of the bow and how to shoot the bow safely,” said Pawlowski. Instructors are National Archery in the Schools (NASP) certified and USA Archery Level 2 certified. Clinics are held in a variety of locations from churches and the YMCA in Plant City, to field locations where participants can put their news skills to work in an actual hunt setting. This is also the case with fishing clinics.

“We are anxious to expand our clinic locations and welcome interest from them as well as churches and other organizations linking us to prospective clinic participants,” said Pawlowski. “We strive to keep our clinic locations in eastern Hillsborough County since the majority of our clinic volunteers work in the area and holding the clinics here enables us to take advantage of their willingness to support TSM.”

In addition to financial support and volunteerism, TSM is also in need of property to lease in order to provide hunts for clinic attendees as well as hunting stands, feeders, general hunting supplies and a tractor along with three-point hitch implements.

In addition to its own needs, TSM supports others.

Among them, 1,000 pounds of meat to Hunters for the Hungry – Florida Hunters and Community Who care Inc. a 5-1(c) (3) organization – Florida Hunters for the Hungry Meeting the Needs of the Hungry (h4hfl.com).

This organization helps feed the hungry through the donation of harvested game.

TSM provides financial support nationally to Pastors in the Outdoors – Pastors in the Outdoors – REVIVING THE MAN OF GOD (pastorsoutdoors.org) which partners with individuals, churches, ministries, organizations and businesses to provide unique outdoor experiences for senior pastors that help them renew and refresh through various outdoor experiences. Internationally, TSM supports Cabaret Haiti Mission, which provides health care, education for children and adults, employment, orphan care and sharing the hope of a life in Christ. This organization has been supporting the same communities in Haiti for nearly two decades.

For more information about Trinity Sportsman Ministries, including clinic participation and support of the ministry, call 813/389-3678 or visit: www.trinitysportsmanministry.com

Since its founding in 2005, TSM has enjoyed the support of organizations such as the Plant City YMCA, Central Florida Buckmasters chapter, East Hillsborough National Turkey Federation and Ducks Unlimited chapters. Its major annual fundraiser is a clay shoot, which just took place earlier this month at FishHawk Sports Clays. Additionally, TSM is funded in part by a grant from the non-profit Fish & Wildlife Foundation (FFWF) via proceeds from the “Wildlife Foundation of Florida” license plate.

Sporting Clays sponsors include the Patterson Companies, title sponsor for the past several years; Grass Pro Shop, Day First, Kroslak Bakery Equipment, Alan’s Air Conditioning, Everglades-Deere, Team Piper, Edward Jones, In the Field Magazine, Radd Builders, Morrow Steel, Dry First, Publix, InTrac, Southside, Petersen Industries, the Mitchell Family, W.W. Pallets, Bank of Central Florida, Team StarBoard, HomeBrown, Gifford & Woss Accounting, Brownlee Garden, Hillsboro Bank, Guynn Produce, Linder Machinery, Team SWAG and others.

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AG-VENTURE AT THE FAIR: TELLING THE STORY OF AG AND MORE

By Jim Frankowiak

The story of Agriculture is an important one for all of us.

The Florida State Fair, Florida Farm Bureau and Hillsborough County Farm Bureau once again partnered to share this important story with fairgoers of all ages at the Ag-Venture exhibit.

Appropriately located at the Fair in the Agriculture Hall of Fame, Ag-Venture consisted of six stations and three displays, some of them “hands on.” One of those stations was Radish Seeds, where visitors could plant radish seeds using cotton balls as medium, then make a necklace of yarn and wear it close to their heart so the seeds would germinate faster. Another dubbed “Goods from the Woods” detailed animals and products from the woods, some that may not be well known like toilet paper and rulers.

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The Dairy Station is a popular stop as visitors can churn butter and then eat the butter they have made on crackers. The Beef Station identifies by-products

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such as leather and toothbrushes made from beef byproducts beyond the beef lunch and dinner entrees we all know and enjoy. The Strawberry DNA stop permits fairgoers to become scientists as they extract the DNA from strawberries.

Nutrients for Life are explained in a station by the same name where attendee make bracelets with “beads” that are needed for plants to grow such as soil, water, sunlight, nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. This station is provided by the education arm of The Fertilizer Institute to engage the public and to inform teachers about no-cost resources available to them on tree, plant and soil science. Tracy Baxter oversees that station for The Fertilize Institute.

Ag-Venture displays included the Chicken Coop, where chickens lay eggs; the Cow Display and the popular Tractor display, allowing visitors to sit in the driver’s seat of a tractor – a much used photo opportunity for youngsters visiting the exhibit.

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Hillsborough County Farm Bureau multi-year volunteer Amber Boykin is involved in much of the activity taking place at Ag-Venture, and while she helps educate attendees, her efforts also aid a personal mission that she has. “Planting the Seed” is her platform in the upcoming Miss Florida competition. She is Miss Florida Everglades, a local step in the Miss America competition, and looks forward to the state competition and possibly the national finals.

“On the two weekends of the 2021 Fair student volunteers from Brandon High School, Beth Shields Middle School Barrington Middle School, Strawberry Crest High School, Tomlin Middle School, Tampa Bay Tech, Randall Middle School and Teneroc High School in Polk County volunteered their time and served as Ag-Venture hosts,” noted Hillsborough County Farm Bureau’s Executive Director Judi Whitson.

“I enjoy helping to educate the public about the importance of agriculture and at the same time enhance my ability to interact with the public,” she said. An alumna of Strawberry Crest High School, Boykin is getting ready to graduate from Polk State College this fall with a major in business management. Her post college plans include attendance at the Academy for Law Enforcement leading to a position as a K-9 deputy sheriff.

Ag-Venture requires an “army” of volunteers to man the stations and displays throughout the run of the Fair. FFA chapters from the following schools staffed Ag-Venture weekdays during the Florida State Fair: King High School, Brandon High School, Newsome High School, Marshall Middle Magnet School, Barrington Middle School, Randall Middle School, Beth Shields Middle School and Strawberry Crest High School.

With every generation,

we get better at protecting our environment.

Reclamation ecologists like Ashlee work to return mined lands to productive use as wildlife habitats, public parks and more—so future generations can enjoy these lands for years to come.

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®

Saddle-up!

by John Dicks Saddle up! Riders at the ready! Horse racing is leading us into re-opening and the post pandemic recovery.

who now has performed for some 26 consecutive years. No pre-recorded music can top tradition, even in a pandemic!

Probably you already know, but the first Saturday in May is a most important day for horse racing. It’s the day that Louisville gets to shine with its Kentucky Derby.

Reporters, workers, and even some jockeys themselves have remarked how strange things were at the Derby last year. The thunder of horses’ hooves racing along with only the shouts of their riders and the occasional crack of the whips made it a race to embrace for a Kentucky Derby.

This year, it came as soon as possible, opening the gates on the very first day of the month, and lighting up the late afternoon screens of millions of people worldwide.

Unlike last year when things were eerily quiet, this 147th annual “Run for the Roses” was celebrated, seemingly, everywhere. Social media was set to a frenzy with pictures of neighborhood Derby parties, where revelers were decked out in local renditions of the ubiquitous big Derby Hat which has become a fashion staple for the main event.

Granted it looked like “social distancing” was not perfectly practiced. Many made mention of vaccinations, though, so we’ll hope for only the best to come from the gatherings. Still, something seemed special about it all.

Strange it was. The good news, though, is that all of that was then, while this year is now.

The Kentucky Derby in the new normal was most worthy of the modern day fist bump!

There were records set, too. The winning jockey celebrated his fourth victory at the Derby. The trainer logged his seventh win, making him the all time champ so far.

Somehow, someway, it all looked normal.

Even the star of the race, Medina Spirit, became an instant fan favorite as the winning horse that next to no-one believed in and odds makers were making a long shot,. He’s a Florida horse, too, having been born and bred just up the road in Ocala.

Well, sort of anyway. The fancy folks in the crowd were back.

The overall number of spectators was limited to about one third the normal. Still, it made for the largest live sporting event since the pandemic began, with more than 51,000 people who were cheering the horses, and really, just celebrating life!

Evidently the experts didn’t think much of him,. He was sold as a yearling for only $1,000 when zillions are paid for favorites. Yet this “little horse” as he was called by his trainer, took the lead at the start and all but for a second or two simply never letup, fighting off three challengers in the stretch to win by a half-length.

What a contrast it was to the Derby held last year, not in May as it should be, but in September to a virtually empty track with no fans in the stands. Only the owners were there, watching their multi-million dollar equine investments run as fast as their hearts and legs would carry them.

It was exciting. It was thrilling. It made people smile.

About the only thing normal in last year’s race was the ever familiar “Call to Post” by the Derby’s longtime bugler

The Kentucky Derby in 2021 truly lived up to its billing as the “most exciting two minutes in sports”.

Maybe, just maybe, it also marked the time we all can get going again!

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John Dicks is both a Lawyer and Businessman, including an interest in farming. He and his family have owned a Blueberry Farm and have Agricultural lands which they lease for cattle operations, as John says, “to someone who knows and handles cattle much better than I do!”. John is both a Gator, having received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, and a Seminole, with his Law Degree from Florida State University. John serves as Of Counsel to Trinkle Redman, a law firm in Plant City where he also served nine years as City Commissioner, including three terms as Mayor.

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E n d a n g e r e d S p e c i es

THE OCEAN’S NOT OURS: STAGHORN CORAL

By Ginny Mink

As a child, this writer was enamored by sea creatures.

This was a time period in which Jacques Cousteau was busy making amazing documentaries we watched on our remote-less TV. At that stage of life, the idea of scuba diving with Great White Sharks and seeing all the amazing ocean creatures was on the bucket list. Of course, we all get old, and then we realize that we will probably never cage dive. Instead, we will write articles about creatures we once wanted to see in person, namely the Staghorn Coral this month.

Perhaps you are unaware, but coral is related to sea anemones, made popular to so many thanks to Finding Nemo. Coral reefs are our oceans’ rainforests. They are home to so many sea creatures but are delicate and have been drastically affected by a number of human created problems. In 2006, the Center for Biological Diversity took a stand for elkhorn and staghorn corals and they were added to the Endangered Species Act at that time. In 2008, the National Marine Fisheries Service began protecting the reefs from harm and in 2012, the corals were upgraded from threatened to endangered.¹ Staghorn corals and other varieties can live for hundreds of years. Staghorns generally grow to heights of four feet tall with an eight-foot diameter. They form thickets, or dense groups, in shallow water areas. In the 1980s, there was a severe disease that attacked these corals, making those reefs now stand at less than 3 percent of their previously encountered abundance. The warmer the water, the worse the situation for the coral, because that warm water makes them release the algae that live within them and thusly they die.²

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Staghorn coral gets its name from its appearance. Researchers found that it looks like antlers based on the

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way it branches out. These are fast growing corals but having had 97 percent of their population wiped out puts them in serious danger. Often people think that coral is just a plant or a rock, but that’s not quite right.

What we see as “coral” is actually a mass of tiny creatures called polyps that have grouped together to form colonies. Once in place, they secrete the shell, or what we see as “coral,” a hard calcium carbonate. They are not rocks, they are alive, guys.³ In 2015, a two-year restoration program for the staghorn coral was started in both Puerto Rico and Florida. They called it the staghorn gardening program. It was headed up by the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science. What these individuals are doing is taking coral tissue and propagating it in a nursery. They then take these newly formed coral fragments and “outplant” them in areas that are in need of coral replenishing. It would appear, based on an article written in 2017, that these efforts are proving fruitful.⁴ To put the importance of staghorn and other corals into perspective for you, while these reefs only cover about one percent of the oceans’ floor, they are the support system for more than 25 percent of the marine creatures living within the oceans. We cannot ignore their plight.

The Center for Biological Diversity is always ready for a fight when they see things being ignored, so they have sued to protect the corals from overfishing. This is necessary because the fish that are being caught are those that help maintain the algae balance within the reefs.¹ Inside the coral are the algae we talked about, zooxanthellae. These algae produce nutrients and, via photosynthesis, they are able to pass these nutrients on to the coral. One extra cool thing is that staghorn corals will WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

also eat zooplankton. They can’t move, so they have to wait for the zooplankton to get close and then they use their nematocysts, a stinging cell on their tentacles, to catch them. This explains their similarity to sea anemones.³

and recovery. The truth is that the ocean is not ours. We are simply here as stewards of all that He has created.

Let us respect our positions on this planet and do our jobs as protectors.

Currently, the coral colonies that are still present are isolated and mostly in small groups. Particularly when you compare the immensity of their reach in the past.

Thankfully, there are still some thickets, but they are only known to exist in a handful of locations. And, sadly, successful reproduction for the staghorn coral is very rare which prevents them from growing back as they need to.²

Resources: ¹Center for Biological Diversity. Staghorn Coral. https:// www.biologicaldiversity.org/species/invertebrates/ staghorn_coral/index.html ²NOAA Fisheries. Staghorn Coral. https://www.fisheries. noaa.gov/species/staghorn-coral ³One Kind Planet. Animal A-Z. Staghorn Coral. https:// onekindplanet.org/animal/coral-staghorn/ ⁴Gaworecki, Mike. (2017). Critically endangered staghorn corals are benefitting from coral gardening in the Caribbean. Mongabay News & Inspiration from Nature’s Frontline. https://news.mongabay.com/2017/08/ critically-endangered-staghorn-corals-are-benefitingfrom-coral-gardening-in-the-caribbean/ Photo Credits: FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. (2016). Corals after two years. Flickr. https://flic.kr/p/GfmAxQ Ria Tan. (2015). Wild Singapore. Staghorn acropora coal (Acropora sp.). Flickr. https://flic.kr/p/xpXa2u

The reality is, that coral reef systems provide us with food and protect our shorelines from hurricanes and other crazy Florida weather. Thusly, coral restoration could be an effective method of fighting rising sea levels and storm surges on our coastlines. “Healthy coral reefs are essential to our everyday life and successful coral restoration has been proven as a recovery tool for lost coastal resources,”⁴ says a UM coral biologist, Stephanie Schopmeyer.⁴ Though we know far less than she does, we have to agree that staghorn corals are in need of our protection

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Summer Growing in Florida Navigating hot, humid days By Stephanie Koeser

If you are new to Florida, you may wonder how anyone can grow anything during the hot and humid months of summer in Florida. Though a calendar tells us that summer begins June 20 and ends September 22, in Florida summer-like temperatures and weather can begin as early as March and last through October. That’s a substantial amount of time. As a grower, you don’t need to postpone your planting. It just takes a little more forethought, planning, and a watchful eye.

If you are a long-time resident of Florida, summer is the best time to grow a secondary crop or cover crop.

WHERE TO START? You can ask me this question regarding winter gardening, gardening in an urban setting, regenerative agriculture, conventional agriculture, etc., and I will answer the same every time: “Growing well begins in healthy soil.”

Some would say I’m biased having been a soil and compost sales representative. But I would reply with: It didn’t take being in sales for me to realize the importance of healthy soil. It took experience.

If you start in the ground all else falls into place much easier.

Test your soil. Nurture your soil. Build your soil.

One way to help cultivate healthier soil is by planting a cover crop during the summer months.

WHAT IS A COVER CROP? It’s a crop that is specifically grown to protect and enrich the soil. Cover crops can be applied in a crop rotation and add nitrogen to the soil in a till or no-till system. Some growers plant cover crops in orchard settings in between the row to attract beneficial bugs1. Cover crops that grow well in Florida include: Sunn Hemp, velvetbean, cowpeas, and sweet potatoes.

WHICH SECONDARY CROP SHOULD I CHOOSE? Want to produce fruits and vegetables during the summer months? No problem. Peppers, squash, okra, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and melons grow well during the hotter months of summer. If you had a chance to plan ahead, you can also have a bountiful harvest from various fruit trees.

Fruit trees are a great way to produce food in abundance.

This, of course, requires planning. Many fruit trees require time and patience before you get a good harvest. You can plant an orchard or dabble in a variety of flavors. Once established you can find a summer harvest of: mango, avocado, peaches, plums, Asian pear, guava, logan, lychee, etc.

Don’t forget pineapples! Though not grown from a fruit tree, pineapples grow well in Florida. A plant make take between 18 months to 3 years to bear fruit.

QUESTIONS? SCHEDULE A CONSULT WITH A LOCAL GROWER, DESIGN, OR NURSERY. There are some great local resources to keep you growing all year around. Visit Living Roots Eco Design for organic vegetables, fruit trees, and Florida-friendly growing. Living Roots Eco Design specializes in Florida-friendly and Florida-native landscape designs. They offer design consultations, coaching, designs, installations, maintenance. You can start your own food forest; design edibles into your existing landscape or build your own organic garden.

Don’t forget to visit Living Root Eco Design’s Garden Shop located: 559 49th St. South, St. Petersburg or contact landscape designer and founder of Living Roots Eco Design, Amanda: 727-488-9750.

Organic and native Florida growing is transitioning in Florida.

Join the movement. Be an ambassador and support organic ecosystems.

Stephanie Koeser is a freelance writer and marketing specialist. Her experiences focus on native and organic ecosystems.

She is certified in permaculture landscape design and has been growing small-scale edibles since childhood.

1. Beneficial bugs are insects that help pollinate, naturally attack pests and break down organic materials. Examples in Florida are: butterflies, lacewings, cicada hawk wasps, and ladybugs.

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FRUIT TREES:

By Ginny Mink

Ornamental Gardening in Florida Can you believe it’s over? Our trip on the Literary Time Machine ends this month! That means we have been reading a book from 1926 for more than six and a half years. It’s a sad moment, at least for us. But it is time for us to move onto new things. So, please join us, for our final voyage with Mr. Torrey Simpson and his phenomenal ornamental gardening advice.

He writes, “I close the list of cultivated exotics with the brief mention of annuals. Not so very long ago it seemed as if they would never be any great success here but now that we are beginning to learn how to grow them we find that they are as rich and beautiful as they are anywhere, that they add as much to the success of our gardens as they do in the north…”¹ For nearly seven years we have adored his appreciation of beauty and the way he weaves his words.

He then goes on to tell a story, “In April, 1925, I was fortunate enough to be present at the Flower Show of the women’s plant clubs in Jacksonville, and there I saw what absolutely astonished me in the way of a display of color such as I had never seen even in the north. While trees, shrubs and house plants were relied on for a considerable part of the decoration yet it was the annuals that gave the atmosphere of glory and triumph to the whole. It filled my heart with a new loyalty to Florida, with a splendid pride in what could be done here.”¹ Mr. Torrey Simpson was a man devoted to making Florida a beautiful place. He explains, “Here in the lower part of the state we are learning something about growing annuals and I have seen this winter in Dade County as fine a show of petunias, marigolds, zinnias, and Phlox drummondi as I ever did anywhere…Just now as I write (July 1st) a neighboring street is gay with salvias, marigolds, candytuft, petunias, and zinnias but most of the plants begin to look a little the worse for wear and will probably only last a short time.”¹

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He goes on to talk about something akin to global warming, which for some people is a sore spot, but kind of interesting to see him thinking about it in the 1920s. Here’s what he has to say, “Some experiments made here a few years ago in order to find out if possible why the ordinary garden vegetables… will do no good whatever during the hotter part of the year in Lower Florida would indicate that the long continued heat of the soil was the cause…”¹ That part is obvious, but then he continues.

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Part 80

“Here the water in a well on my place that is more than twenty feet deep is about 76 degrees all winter and only a fraction of a degree warmer in summer…I am very doubtful if many of the annuals will succeed here in late summer even if they could be shaded…In order to have good success with annuals in Florida it is necessary to either have naturally rich soil or to make it so by liberal fertilizing. Nothing is better than well rotted cow manure thoroughly worked in.”¹ He ends his advice on annuals with, “…as a rule if one is to have fine annuals it is necessary to have rich or well fertilized soil and plenty of water… I believe the time is at hand when these plants and some others of their class will give more of brightness and color to our gardens in the cooler part of the year than anything and everything else.”¹ And that ends his book.

But, prior to his conclusion he lists some annuals and their levels of success. The ones he says do well all over the state are: petunias, sunflowers, sweet peas, phlox, salvia, marigolds, black-eyed susans, Madagascar periwinkles, and zinnias. In case you are interested in planting annuals at some point, these would be the first ones to consider as they have been doing well here for nearly one hundred years, if not longer.

And, if you are really all about the concept of gardening, not just ornamentally, we would suggest that you check out the community garden here in Plant City. Yes, we have one and it is so cool. The pics in this article are some I took while visiting it. The bees need us to garden, to plant those annuals with their gorgeous flowers, to grow healthy vegetables and fruit.

And even if you don’t have yard space, you can do that in the community garden. It’s behind HCC if you don’t know about it.

Ask for Karen and tell her Ginny sent you! Happy gardening, wherever you are doing it!

Resources: ¹ Simpson, Charles T. (1926). Ornamental Gardening in Florida.

Published by the Author; Little River, FL. Printed by J.J. Little and Ives Company, New York. (p. 223-end).

Photos: Mink, G. (2021). HCC’s community garden flowers growing there.

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NRCS Hillsborough Office Welcomes New District Conservationist Leslie Diaz-Alvarez has joined Hillsborough’s NRCS office as the new District Conservationist. A native of Juncos, Puerto Rico, Leslie graduated with a BS degree in Soil Sciences from the University of Puerto Rico; prior to joining NRCS in Minnesota. For Ms. Diaz-Alvarez her career choice was simple, “Agronomy is just my passion! I love working with different plants, exotic fruits, insects and forestry. For me, our relationship with the environment and nature is significant.”

As a Soil Conservationist in Minnesota, Leslie worked with land users and customers providing the best service possible in designing comprehensive conservation plans that met both financial and technical goals. In addition, she managed the Environmental Quality Incentive Program- EQUIP and served as the Earth Team Volunteer Coordinator for the state.

In this role she was responsible for assisting the program at 22 Service Centers throughout Minnesota.

In her new position covering Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, she’ll be supporting popular practices such as microirrigation, cover crops, fence and forest management plans, structures for water control, water wells and others. For individuals who lease or own land for pasture, crops, associated ag lands, forests and farmsteads funding is available through several programs.

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For more information, contact Leslie Diaz-Alvarez, Office (813) 473.4885 or Cell (813) 339.1431 or visit the office (by appointment please), 201 South Collins Street, Suite 202, Plant City, Florida 33563.

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ANaturally Closer Look Amazing

by Sean Green

Atala Butterfly (Eumaeus atala)

I love studying the natural history of insects. It’s even better when I discover a particular insect is a significant player in Florida’s history. The Atala butterfly is a species that was almost wiped out of our American History. It belongs to the sub family Theclinae, the hairstreaks and is commonly referenced as the Atala hairstreak, or Coontie hairstreak. Hairstreaks tend to be limited to a specific geographic location and the Atala butterfly is a rare neotropic species found only in specific parts of Florida. Its rarity is not a result of any particularly exotic habitat such as a tropical rain forest or isolated island but more because of the depletion of its host plant the Coontie (Zamia integrifolia), also known as Florida arrowroot. This month we’ll take a closer look at not only the butterfly but also its host plant and the historic significance that makes this species such a rare and exciting find.

We can start this “long ago” story with the butterfly’s host plant the Coontie (Zamia integrifolia). If you have ever wondered what it would be like to live in prehistoric times, this is one of the plants that should be included in your prehistoric garden. The Coontie predate the dinosaurs. Fossil records dating back to at least the early permian period (280 million years ago) demonstrate that this plant has not changed much in its natural history and is regarded as a living fossil. The Coontie is a cycad, an ancient order of evergreen perineal plants. All cycads are gymnosperms (naked seed), meaning the seeds are open to the air for pollination. Wind pollination however, is not very efficient and specific beetles (Rhopalotria slossoni) and (Pharaxonotha zamiae) coevolved with the plant in a mutualistic symbiosis, so both the plant and the insect benefit. Consequently, the beetle became the plants primary pollinator about 150 million years before bees and butterflies came on the scene to pollinate the newer, more advanced plant species.

The Coonti is the only native cycad in Florida; this is important because it’s also the only host plant for the Atala hairstreak (Eumaeus atala), the only species in it’s genera in the United States. Like the beetles that help pollinate the coonti, the atala caterpillars also have a mutually beneficial relationship with the plant. The coonti plant contains a mixture of neurotoxins, toxic glucosides and toxic amino acids that are all produced by cyanobacteria. The Atala caterpillar has evolved to tolerate the toxins consumed from eating the leaves and can store them in its body as a defense mechanism. In return, the caterpillars waste provides the plant with vital nutrients that it cannot get from the lime or sandy loom it likes to grow in. Like the

The Atala butterfly is still considered rare and so far the only reports of the butterfly being seen in the wild were seen in Miami-Dade, Palm Beach and Broward. I will note, that of the dozens of sources I looked at, I did find one that mentioned sightings in parts of St Petersburg.

The photo I have included for this article was from a hiking trip my wife and I took in the everglades. All hope is not lost, the Coontie is becoming a popular choice for homeowners as an ornamental as well as a staple plant for urban butterfly gardens as it is the only plant that will serve as a host for the Atala butterfly. Both the plant and butterfly are still endangered but slowly on the rebound. If you want to help rebuild the population and have room for a cool plant, some nurseries will have a small stock of Coontie. I encourage you to take a closer look at the benefits of planting Coontie and attract these beautiful butterflies to your home, business, or public garden. It’s highly unlikely that the caterpillars will eat anything but the Coontie, and you will be doing your part to help prevent the extinction of a fascinating plant and beautiful butterfly.

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Monarch butterfly, the toxins consumed by the caterpillar survive through its metamorphic transformation into a butterfly. Both the caterpillar and adult butterfly display bright red warning colors to advertise their toxicity to would be predators. The adult Atala butterflies are the most colorful and largest of the hairstreak butterflies with iridescent blue dots on black wings and a bright red caboose.

The Atala hairstreak was at one time considered extinct, not because of natural predators or natural environmental change, but because of the over harvest of the Coontie, its host food source. This is where the Florida history gets interesting. Spanish sources from the 16th Century document methods that the Timicuan and Calusa people used to remove the toxins from the Coontie plant so the starch can be to made bread. Later, the Seminole people adopted the method for their own use and made a white bread they called “conti hateka,” which is where we get the common name for the plant, “Coontie”. The starchy stem of the plant was also used for a stew they called “sofkee stew.” Around 1825, early Florida settlers learned the technique from the Seminoles and capitalized on it. By 1880 several starch mills were in full production, some outputting up to 18 tons of starch per day for military purchase during WWI. By 1911, the industry had grown and what was once known as Coontie became commonly known as “Florida Arrowroot,” a marketing ploy I suspect. Shortly thereafter the industry failed as greed depleted the natural sources of Coontie.

From 1937 until 1960, The Atala butterfly was thought to be extinct; no specimens could be found to collect.

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FROM THE SCIENTIFIC FIELD By J. Scott Angle

In addition to doing research and running the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Range Cat- Nor is she a full-time rancher. She’s a pharmacist who needed tle Research and Education Center in Ona, Brent Sellers still a farm assist. She called Stice. Like that ranch manager in Lake Wales, what she got was a team of experts. does Extension house calls—in Polk County.

A ranch manager had called with a weed problem. Namely, why was a weed spreading across his pasture, and why wasn’t spraying killing it? Sellers drove to Lake Wales and took samples. He has a UF/IFAS soil testing lab at his disposal and colleagues back in Ona with whom he could consult.

Joao Vendramini is a forage agronomist with a keen sense of how grazing management affects the interplay between feed and weed. Maria Silveira is a soil scientist who can warn a rancher that fertility, pH and nutrients favor weeds and prescribe how to help forage fight back.

Stice showed up fast. She took a look at weeds that worried Giacomuzzi and then texted Sellers, who quickly texted back with an herbicide recommendation. When Stice got back to the office, she called Vendramini to ask whether it was advisable to plant a type of limpograss across an entire pasture or if a wet end and a dry end called for different forage varieties.

That’s how it usually works. Stice is the boots on the ground (Or sometimes dress shoes. She recently left a planning commission meeting to respond to ranch owners who feared a weed in their pasture was toxic. It wasn’t, but while Stice was there she found one that was.). She can then mobilize an entire team of That’s three tenured faculty members and soil lab testing for experts depending on the complexity of the problem. one call. It’s an example of how every rancher in Polk County— indeed every rancher across the state—has an entire Extension She also invites them to Polk. Philipe Moriel took his nutrition for beef females program to Bartow before the pandemic. He livestock team at his or her disposal. also shows up in Polk when the Florida Cattlemen’s AssociaWhile Extension grows to serve 22 million Floridians, many of tion holds quarterly meetings there. Beef cattle economist whom live hours from a ranch, our roots are in service to an Chris Prevatt has repeatedly called Polk producers to share industry as old as European settlement in Florida. We have as insights about marketing feeder calves. many Extension agents with full or partial focus on livestock as we have ever had. We have dozens of them deployed across Like Vendramini, Sellers and Silveira, Moriel and Prevatt don’t the state, sometimes grouped as the South Florida Beef- work in Polk—except when they do. Not only do we have as Forage team, the Central Florida Livestock Agents Group, the many livestock experts in ExtenNorth Florida Livestock Agents Group, or the Panhandle Ag sion as we’ve ever had, but they’re all connected by smartphones, lapExtension team. tops, and, when necessary, a mudIn Polk, your gateway into this array of experts is county live- splashed pickup truck. stock agent Bridget Stice. You know her from Polk County Cattlemen’s Association meetings, from AgriFest, from the six- They go where you are, and this session Managing Cattle Enterprises for Success Program at month that means Marco Island.

You can count on seeing many of the UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Office. them. Stice will be wearing dress You might even know her from the cover of the December is- shoes again, but hopefully this time sue of In The Field. That’s how rookie ranch owner Cheryl Gia- she’ll have her boots in the truck. comuzzi discovered Stice.

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Giacomuzzi is smart enough to know what she doesn’t know.

In fact, she jokes that she runs the ranch on three rules: Improve the pasture, be a good steward of the land, and don’t do anything stupid.

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Scott Angle is the University of Florida’s Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources and leader of the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS).

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WE BUY FARMS Gladstone Land is actively acquiring farms in Florida.

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3. We buy farms with leases in place or can be leased.

Please contact Bill Frisbie at Gladstone Land: (703) 287-5839 bill.f@gladstoneland.com | www.GladstoneFarms.com INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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UF/IFAS TROPICAL AQUACULTURE LABORATORY HOSTS FFA/CDE STATE HIGH SCHOOL AND MIDDLE SCHOOL FINALS

By Jim frankowiak

The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory (TAL) in Ruskin recently hosted the state finals for the annual FFA Aquaculture Career Development Event (CDE) for high school and middle school teams from across Florida. TAL has hosted the finals since 2013.

High school team winners were: 1. Durant High School (Plant City) 2. Orlando Colonial High School (Orlando) 3. Ocoee High School (Ocoee) 4. Bradford High School (Starke) 5. Hudson High School (Hudson) Individual high honors were awarded to Kyra Bandy of Orlando Colonial High School.

Middle School teams: 1. Bradford Middle School (Starke) 2. Randall Middle School (Lithia) 3. Chiefland Middle School (Chiefland) 4. Deane Bozeman Middle School (Panama City) 5. Bridewater Middle School (Winter Haven) Reese Wainwright of Bradford Middle School took top individual middle school honors in the competition. Team and individual members will be recognized at the 93rd State FFA Convention & Expo to be held at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando June 14-18.

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The FFA Aquaculture CDE has as its purpose to stimulate student interest in the aquaculture industry, encourage aqua-

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culture instruction in the agricultural education curriculum and provide recognition for those who have demonstrated skills and competencies in the area of aquaculture management. “Florida has a unique and diverse aquaculture industry which includes the culture of tropical ornamental fish, aquatic plants, clams, shrimp, alligators, tilapia, catfish, live rock and other assorted aquatic animals,” said Deborah Pouder, Coordinator of TAL Research Programs and Services/Diagnostic Lab Manager as well as oversight provider of the competition.

“High School and Middle School FFA teams take a preliminary test to determine if they qualify for the final,” said Pouder.

“Usually, the top 10 High School and Middle School teams come to the TAL for the final. This year it was the top five of each category because of current COVID protocols.

“When at the TAL for the final, they rotate through four practicum stations. Every year they have a written test and a species identification practicum. On even years, the other two practicums are water quality and disease, pests and predators. During odd years, the other two practicums are systems design and anatomy and physiology.”

FFA is an intracurricular student organization for those interested in agriculture and leadership. FFA welcomes members who aspire to careers as teachers, doctors, scientists, business owners and more. The organization has more than 8,730 chapters in the U.S. and Puerto Rico with over 770,100 members, 17,000 of those members reside in Florida. The FFA Aquaculture CDE competition is one of 30 in which members can compete. The competitions cover job skills in everything from communications to mechanics and are designed to help students prepare for careers. Some of the events allow stuWWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

My name is Hailee Seely and I am a senior at the University of Florida in Plant City studying Agricultural Communications. What started as a fun FFA speech contest about water dents to compete as individuals, while others are team comconservation at George Jenkins High School turned into my educational career at UF. In my time petitions.

Gator,comprises I have learned TAL was established in 1996 andas anow a many skills and techniques, but most importantly I have found my 5,000-square-foot office and disease lab as well as a meetpassion, advocating for agriculture. ing/conference room that can accommodate up to 100 people. The facility also has a 6.5 acre fish farm with 48 ponds, I am excited to begin my journey with In The Field Magazine to further my skills and five greenhouses, a fish quarantine space and building which houses tanks and lab space for a range of projects. Hillsbormeet many more agricultural enthusiasts. When I am not in class or with In The Field, I can be ough Community College (HCC) utilizes one of the greenhouses for its hands-on aquaculture production found helping youfacility. find feed for your animals and the latest western fashion at Lays in Lakeland!

Working closely with industry and other partners, TAL faculty, staff and facilities development have all been strategically planned and implemented as are applied research, extension outreach programming and teaching of future aquaculture leaders.

My name is Hailee Seely and I am a senior at the University of Florida in Plant City studying Agricultural Communications. What started as a fun FFA speech contest about water conservation at George Jenkins High School turned into my educational career at UF. In my time as a Gator, I have learned many skills and techniques, but most importantly I have found my passion, advocating for agriculture.

I am excited to begin my journey with In The Field Magazine to further my skills and meet many more agricultural enthusiasts. When I am not in class or with In The Field, I can be found helping you find feed for your animals and the latest western fashion at Lays in Lakeland!

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Fresh or Frozen?

Kimberly Bragg-Armatrout, NDTR Family and Consumer Sciences Agent UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County

I was taught that nothing beats the nutritional value of food that is picked and used right out of the garden, and this is true.

But, is your fresh produce coming from your garden or the store? The amount of time it takes for fresh produce to get to the grocery store from the farm can make your fresh produce not as fresh.

What happens when they freeze fruits and vegetables? First, the produce is picked at peak ripeness. Then blanched in hot water and then frozen by a processor in or near the fields. Or, it is flash-frozen within hours of harvest to lock in nutrients and to preserve taste. This makes picking frozen an excellent option for your produce.

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People pick frozen over fresh for several reasons. Frozen food can be a convenient way of incorporating more fruits or vegetables into your diet. It can save time and last longer, making frozen more affordable than fresh with little to no food waste.

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To ensure that you get the healthiest option, you need to check the food label for any extra added ingredients that might make this a less healthy choice. Sauces added to frozen produce can incorporate more calories, saturated fat, added sugar, or salt. However, sometimes frozen produce can have extra of the good stuff like high fiber content and vitamins and minerals added to preserve food longer. So, it is always important to check the food labels to ensure you are getting what your body needs.

It is essential to recognize that both fresh and frozen can be incorporated into your daily intake of fruits and vegetables.

When fresh produce is in season and local, it is usually at a reasonable price. It is the perfect time to buy fresh. However, if you are looking for something out of season or need it to last longer, you might want to buy frozen. Frozen is an excellent option to have on hand for quick meals.

So, is one better than the other? No, they both can fit into your daily diet.

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HSWCD and NRCS Local Working Group Meeting Set For May 27th and

WE WANT YOUR OPINION

Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District Presents

“Let’s Plant Some Trees”!!

Bryan, Aimee and Anabelle Gilmore were the first to sign up for the “Let’s Plant Some Trees” event. According to Bryan, “I work for Mosaic and we have a real commitment to the land and our environment, so this activity is a natural for us and we know we’ll have a great time!”

Photo credit: Sunny Stickles

Plan now to grab your gloves, mask, sunscreen and insect spray and join family and friends on Saturday, June 12th for the HillInterested in sharing your thoughts and opinions about fund- sborough Soil and Water Conservation District’s 20,000 pine ing for critical agricultural needs? Then join farmers, ranchers, tree planting event. The project , coordinated by HSWCD, is in agricultural educators, affiliated partners and the public at the support of the Hillsborough 100 Conservation Challenge. Other Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District and Natural event presenters include the Sustany Foundation, TREE, Inc., Resource Conservation Service annual Local Working Group Rotary Brandon South Global and the Hillsborough County Conmeeting, scheduled from 3:00 until 5:30 pm, Thursday, May servation and Environmental Lands Management department.

27, 2021 at the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, 13138 Planting will take place on an 80 acre parcel that’s part of the Lewis Gallagher Road, Dover, 33527. The goal of this meeting Lower Green Swamp Preserve, located at 3540 East Knights Griffin Road, Plant City. Two shifts are available, from 9 am unis to help determine priorities for NRCS in the coming years. til noon and noon until 3 pm. The event is open to youth and Issues to be addressed include funding pools for NRCS pro- adults, with all those under 16 requiring adult support. grams. While two of the fixed local funding pools are grazing and cropland, participants will have an opportunity to recom- 20,000 pine seedlings have been provided by the Sustany mend two additional pools from forestry, water conservation, Foundation, which has committed to making this an annual doseasonal high tunnel, brush and herbaceous weed control, nation. Participants will receive a t-shirt and refreshments. invasive plants or other issues.

In order to follow COVID guidelines, participation will be limited Other areas to be addressed include recommended levels of to the first 200 individuals signed up in advance of the event. investment in selected funding pools and the opportunity to Application forms and further information are available at: www. select eight Resource Concern Categories for FY 2022 as Pri- Hillsboroughswcd.com. or contacting Betty Jo Tompkins, (813) orities for Florida. For those unable to attend, questionnaires 477.8332. are available by calling (813) 477.8332 or emailing bjt6890@ yahoo.com or tompkinsb@hillsboroughcounty.org. Please Don’t miss out on this fun event to create a register by May 24th via phone or email above.

future forest!!

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Local and Fresh From the Fields to Your Table

By Libby Hopkins

Fields and Table is a new business that will be joining the Riverview area in late May of this year. The new concept is a retailer of fresh fruits and vegetables, both conventional and organic, at affordable prices. Their passion is helping families in our community access fresh and nutritious food. “Fields and Table is a concept that the founders created to provide a better way to offer customers seasonal, fresh, well-priced products,” said Marketing Manager, Amy Lundy. “The more they talked to people in the community, the more they knew how important it was for customers to know where foods come from, how they’re made, and what’s going into their bodies. The ‘fields to table concept’ is unlike any other grocery option in Florida. The store will be easy to navigate and the staff will provide helpful education along the way to ensure customers find what they need and want based on that particular time of year.”

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The staff at Fields and Table will provide education about fresh produce; when and how to buy something in season, how to cook or use a specific item and how to provide children with healthy nutritious options.

This is what makes them different from other fresh and organic markets in the area. “The focus on partnering with local vendors, the educational experience, the affordability of our products and the overall look and feel of the store,” Lundy said. “We aren’t like any other markets, we’re a truly unique concept. The largest section of the store will be made up of fruits and vegeta-

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bles. Other unique areas of the store include meat and seafood departments (complete with an experienced butcher), a fully stocked dairy section inclusive of milk, eggs, ice cream and other offerings, a fresh bakery featuring local artisans’ best-selling sweet and savory items, a floral area, as well as nuts, honeys and other local fare. There will also be a salsa and guacamole bar, allowing customers to choose from ripe tomatoes and avocados, which experienced staff will customize to their liking, and a juicer machine.”

There are many health benefits from eating locally sourced foods. Locally grown food is full of flavor.

When grown locally, the crops are picked at their peak of ripeness versus being harvested early in order to be shipped and distributed to your local retail store. Many times produce at local markets has been picked within 24 hours of your purchase.

Local food has more nutrients. Local food has a shorter time between harvest and your table, and it is less likely that the nutrient value has decreased. Food imported from far-away states and countries is often older, has traveled and sits in distribution centers before it gets to your store.

Local food supports the local economy. The money that is spent with local farmers and growers all stays close to home and is reinvested with businesses WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

and services in your community. By purchasing locally grown foods you help maintain farmland and green and/or open space in your community. (www.canr.msu. edu/news/7_benefits_of_eating_local_foods) “Any produce and meats in season in Florida will come from Florida,” Lundy said. “We will source items as they are in season. As the seasonality changes, the items change and the regions. We’re always going to have Florida grown items given the current season.”

Keeping things local is the main goal of Fields and Table. “We believe in supporting our local communities of farmers, purveyors, bakeries and more,” Lundy said. “We can offer the freshest products to our customers when we source locally, and we can also help keep costs down. We love supporting local businesses and

Fields and Table also believes in giving back and will have several partnerships with local non-profits. “We will kick off our store opening promoting our local amazing partner, National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, a Tampa-based non-profit dedicated to funding research to eliminate childhood cancer,” Lundy said. “Customers will have the opportunity to donate at check-out.”

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we want to share with our customers where the products they’re buying are coming from and the stories behind those companies. We hope to be the source for all of Tampa Bay’s meats, seafood, produce, dairy, bakery items and more. We want our shopping experience for customers to be easy, enjoyable, educational and affordable. We really believe that we offer a difference experience for shoppers and we know they’ll love it!”

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2002 GMC (Isuzu) 16 ft flat bed, diesel, 142,174 miles. $5,500.

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