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Business Up Front
Raney Cattle Sales The Cow Palace is back in business
In 1977, Kenny Raney Jr. began a part time job working at the Cow Palace in Lakeland. Now, 40 years later, he has returned to the same place, not only working full time, but also running his own operation out of the building. Raney Cattle Sales is a cattle operation in Lakeland. While the scope of the operation is wide and many different services are offered, the number one goal is that any cattle someone buys from the company will be healthy. Kenny Raney Jr. is the owner and operator of the company. In order to sell healthy cattle, there are a number of steps that are taken when new animals arrive. All new animals are quarantined from cattle that were already present for one week. At the beginning of that week, the cattle are given a series of shots and drenches, as well as tested for diseases that may otherwise go unnoticed. “Any time you can increase the cattle’s immune system by giving them vitamins, vaccines and wormer, you are making the animal healthier and giving them more potential,” Raney said. All of the cattle at Raney Cattle Sales are treated for IBR, BVD types 1 and 2, BRSV and PI3. A test is run on the cattle to insure that there are not any cattle that are persistently infected by BVD. All cattle bought from Raney Cattle Sales are guaranteed to be PI BVD negative. Cattle are also given Multimen, wormer and vitamins. At the same time, each animals’ temperature is taken and recorded. Beyond giving shots and quarantining animals, there are other steps taken to promote healthy animals. In between groups of cattle being in a pen, the pen is sanitized with Chlorhexidine. The entire fence around the pen is sprayed, the water troughs are emptied and sprayed and the ground itself is sprayed. Any feed and hay that was present with a different group of cattle is also stripped from the pen and replaced. Raney Cattle Sales is bonded through the USDA as a cattle broker. This allows them to ship and receive cattle from
around the country. Beyond the obvious fact of cattle being bought and sold here, there are other services offered. All cattle that are brought into the operation are put onto their health program. Cattle may also be brought here to be preconditioned. If there is a specific age, size or breed of cattle that is sought, they also offer the service of finding the animal for customers. The selection of cattle present at Raney Cattle Sales come from around the state. The majority of the cattle that they have and sell are present on consignment. Raney Cattle Sales provides people with a way to purchase cattle from a group that caters to individual customers on a personal basis. This is done in several ways. The barn is open for the public to walk around and look at any cattle that they would like to see. The staff also urges customers to look at all animals and ask questions about them. Both of these things are done in order to provide a high level of customer service and help customers find the right animal for them. Raney Cattle Sales also has custom feed, as well as hay available for purchase. The feeds that they sell were designed specifically for cattle in Florida with the help of a nutritionist out of Texas. There are 14% and 18% protein options. The 14% feed is sold by bulk bags, the drum, or in 50-pound bags. The 18% feed is sold in bulk bags or drums. Both cattle and horse hay is also available. There are a variety of types of hay that can be purchased, including Tifton 44, Coastal, Bahia and Hemarthria. Currently, there are about 350 head of cattle at Raney Cattle Sales. There are a variety of breeds, such as Maine, Angus, Brahma and Hereford cattle that range in size from 100 pounds up. These cattle range from roping calves to prospective show cattle. The hours of operation are MondaySaturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. For more information, go to raneycattlesales.com or contact Kenny at (863) 559-2769 or Theresa at (863)-608-0465.
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Taeler Dupre
CONTENTS
June 2017 VOL. 11 • ISSUE 9
24 FLORIDA FOREST SERVICE: DISTRICT 14
When most people think about the Forest Service the first thing that comes to mind is Smokey Bear PAGE 3 Business Up Front
PAGE 30 Cardoon
PAGE 10 Master Gardener
PAGE 32 FNGLA
PAGE 12 Market Watch
PAGE 34 UF Mandarin
PAGE 14 Fishing Hot Spots
PAGE 36 John Dicks
PAGE 16 Adam Putnam
PAGE 38 Recipes
PAGE 18 Jack Payne
PAGE 40 Activity
PAGE 22 Rocking Chair Chatter
PAGE 41 A Closer Look
PAGE 26 Literary Time Machine
PAGE 42 PCSO
PAGE 28 Endangered Species
PAGE 43 Polk County CattleWomen
Hey Readers!
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 and a FREE In The Field T-Shirt. 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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InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377 • Plant City, Fl. 33566-0042 *Winners will be notified by phone. You Too Can Be A Winner!
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Polk County Cattlemen’s Association P.O. Box 9005 • Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL. 33831-9005 President – Ray Clark 4484 Swindell Road Lakeland, FL 33810 (863) 640-0719 rclark@tampabay.rr.com
J. B. Wynn PO Box 197 Alturas, FL 33820 (863) 581-3255 jbwynn29@gmail.com
Vice President – Carlton Taylor 9875 Hancock Road Lakeland, FL 33810 (863) 858-1771 L2brangus@aol.com
Alternate – Scott Shoupe 6130 Allen Lane Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 581-7593 Scott_shoupe@hotmail. com
Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Standing Committee Bunch Chairs: PO Box 849 Highland City, FL 33846 Membership- J.B. Wynn (863) 425-1121 Events- Kevin Fussell jbunch@agriumretail.com Trade Show- Bridget Stice State Director – David McCullers 1000 Hwy 630 W Frostproof, FL 33843 (863) 635-3821 crookedlakeranch@verizon. net
Rodeo- Fred Waters PO Box 463 Alturas, FL 33820 (863) 559-7808
Website – Adam Norman 2115 West Pipkin Rd Donald Conroy Lakeland, FL 33811 3882 Lake Buffum Rd East (863) 944-9293 Fort Meade, FL 33841 Adamnorman1977@gmail. (863) 412-0790 com risingc@verizon.net Cattlewomen – President, Mike Facente Megan Atkinson 4465 Poyner Oaks Rd N. 3970 Gerber Dairy Rd Polk City, FL 33868 Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 697-9419 (863) 559-1228 Megamess007@yahoo. L.B. Flanders, DVM com 944 Wedgewood Lane Lakeland, FL 33813 Extension – Bridget Stice (863) 644-5974 PO Box 9005, Drawer HS03 Kevin Fussell Bartow, FL 33831 4523 Fussell Rd (863) 519-1048 Polk City, FL 33868 bccarlis@ufl.edu (863) 412-5876 Sheriff’s Dept. – Sgt. Paul Mike Fussell Wright 4520 Barush Rd 1891 Jim Keen Blvd. Bartow, FL 33830 Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 698-8314 (863) 557-1741 fussell.flafarm@gmail.com pw5281@polksheriff.org Moby Persing 3380 Sam Keen Rd Lake Wales, FL 33853 (863) 528-4567 Dave Tomkow 3305 US Highway 92 E Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 665-5088 cattlemenslivestock@ earthlink.net
Warner University – Dalton Bush 17 Skidmore Rd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 585-9530 Dalton.bush@warner.edu
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STAFF Publisher/Photography Karen Berry Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher Sarah Holt Editor-In-Chief Al Berry Editor Patsy Berry Sales Manager Danny Crampton
Letter from the Editor
Happy Independence Day!! I realize for many people this day is another day off work. A day set aside for a picnic, parades, carnivals, concerts, baseball games and fireworks. Please remember this day is a holiday to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 by the Continental Congress. On this day, the thirteen colonies claimed independence from England, which led to the formation of the United States. For this holiday, and many other days of the year, Floridians will be celebrating outside. Warm, or rather hot weather events present opportunities for foodborne bacteria. As food heats up, bacteria multiply. Here are some tips to ensure your food stays fresh and safe. • Keep cold food cold. Place cold food in a cooler with ice or frozen gel packs. • Organize cooler contents. Consider packing beverages in one cooler and perishable foods in another. • Once at the picnic site, limit the number of times the cooler is opened as much as you can. • Don’t cross-contaminate. Be sure to keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood securely wrapped. • Clean your produce. Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running tap water before packing them in the cooler — including those with skins and rinds that are not eaten. Enjoy spending time with your family and friends and create memories. Spending time with those closest to us is always a good investment. Until Next month
Sarah Holt
The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. - Numbers 6:25
Sales Al Berry Tina Richmond Danny Crampton Melissa Nichols Taeler Dupre Creative Director/Illustrator Juan Alvarez Photography Karen Berry Al Berry Melissa Nichols Leslie Buchanon Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Libby Hopkins Nick Chapman Taeler Dupre Contributing Writers Woody Gore John Dicks
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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© 2017 The Mosaic Company
WE’RE PUTTING SCIENCE TO WORK TO NURTURE NATIVE WILDLIFE.
Every day, Mosaic puts science to work right here in our community. Our team of biologists and ecologists is dedicated to ensuring the protection and stewardship of Florida’s native wildlife through the most advanced relocation techniques and prime habitat development. By working with local environmental groups, Mosaic has preserved and created thousands of acres of natural habitats throughout our region for nearly 300 types of native wildlife. Grant, Mosaic ecologist and authorized agent, works to ensure wildlife like the Florida gopher tortoise thrives in reclaimed xeric upland habitat. To learn more about Mosaic’s leadership in reclamation ecology, visit Science.MosaicCo.com.
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MOS-2512_GRANT_TORTOISE_InTheField_8.75x11.25.indd 1
Well summer is just around the corner but to most of us it feels like it started about two months ago. We are still very short in our rainfall amounts, although some of you have been in the right spots to get several inches, while some of us only got several tenths. Our local weathermen are saying we are almost in the rainy season. If y’all are like me ,I’m ready for it to start anytime now. The heat has been record breaking nearly every day, staying around that 95-degree mark. It makes you wonder what August and September are going to be like. Well enough about the weather, moving on. Cattle prices seem to have leveled off for the time being. It just depends on what day you happen to sell. The market can go either way from one day to the next. Maybe with China starting to get more of our beef this may raise the prices a little. There are several billion people in China waiting on our beef products. Also, it seems like the slaughter plant in Center Hill may be back in full time business any day now. That should help our butcher cow market. We are just going to have to wait and see which direction NAFTA goes in the next few months. Things could hurt us or really help us, its a wait and see time period. Anyway the market trend looks good, but we all know our weather can change everything over night it seems sometimes. Some dates that are coming up and some that will take place before you get this. I hope everyone had a good experience at the Beef Cattle Short Course. Also, our State Cattlemen’s Convention will be here June 20th through the 23rd. I hope your able to attend. Also, the
Polk County Youth Fair Commercial Steer selection will be June 17 at the Lightsey Ranch headquarters. If you get a chance come out and watch our 4-H and FFA members select their 2018 steers. The State FFA Convention will probably be over when you read this,dates for that are June 12th through June 16th. Don’t forget our Summer county Cattlemen’s meeting and steak dinner at the Stuart Center, July 6, starting at 6:30pm. All Jr. Cattlemen and women don’t forget, if you show 4-H or FFA ,there will be a heifer given away by Mr. Bill Adkinson. Hope to see you there. In closing let me remind you of the Livestock and Drought Indemnity program. Information about this can be received by checking with Marcinda Kester at our FSA office in Bartow. Be sure to check your cattle every chance you get. Many waterholes and marshes have dried up and some cattle have been lost in the mud holes. There have been some fence problems, according to our Ag deputies, where water has receded and wire has rusted with calves going under broken wire. I want to thank our Ag deputies for the outstanding job they do. They are on duty 24/7. Polk County has the most and best ranchers and farmers found in our state. May God continue to bless all of us and keep us safe. May our Trails Cross Soon.
Ray Clark
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Polk County Cattlemen’s Association President
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Who are the
Master Gardeners?
By Debra Howell, Florida Master Gardener UF/IFAS Extension Polk County The Florida Master Gardeners of the University of Florida/IFAS Extension Polk County began in the late 1980s. This was about the time that I began to aspire to become a Florida Master Gardener. Initially under the direction of Joe Freeman, the first group of Polk County Master Gardeners numbered only a few. It has now grown to almost 100. Mr. Freeman was followed by Nathan Williams, Dr. David Shibles and now Anne Yasalonis, whose title is Residential Horticulture Agent and Master Gardener Coordinator. In order to understand the role of the Master Gardener organization, you need to know about land grant colleges. In 1862, colleges were established in each state through the passage of the Morrill Act. Each college was underwritten by Federal Government land grants. Experimental Research Stations were added in 1887 by the Hatch Act. The Extension Service was born in 1914, with the passage of the Smith-Lever Act. Through the extension service, university research is available to local residents aimed at improving their lives. The Extension Service is under the aegis of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences of Florida’s land grant college, the University of Florida. Extension literally denotes the spread of information harvested by federal and state research. This “informal education organization” assimilates and spreads information in life sciences, agriculture and human and natural resources. Their motto is an appropriate one: “Helping People Help Themselves.”
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affiliation? The initiation of Master Gardeners into the Extension Service occurred in 1972 when an extension agent from Washington State developed a way to reduce the wear and tear on county agents due to the vast number of homeowner questions. The agents would then be able to concentrate on more intricate problems. How may someone become a Master Gardener volunteer? When you are accepted into the Master Gardener Training Program, you have to learn many phases of gardening and possess a commitment to help others. Once you have completed the training, to be an active Master Gardener you are required to perform at least 50 hours of volunteer service annually in Polk County. The training course covers a myriad of gardening and landscaping topics, from botany to vegetable gardening. The course consists of 50-75 hours of educational training. You will be tested on your knowledge of these subjects at the culmination of the training period. Following the training period, your volunteer commitment for the first year is 75 hours. Thereafter, it is 50 hours per year. It has been my experience in the last eleven years that once people know you are a Master Gardener, they will seek you out with homeowner questions. The Master Gardener training will equip you to answer questions competently, and if you are not sure you have the proper answer, then you have access to the University of Florida’s latest research and associated faculty. As a Master Gardener, you are only responsible for questions from homeowners. Questions from professional or commercial growers are addressed by the Extension WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Service agents. This innovation has been successful ever since its inception in 1972. As well as taking the curriculum and passing the exams, Master Gardeners are expected to perform quality, factual work and great customer service. All educational information from a Master Gardener is backed in science. Answers are based on research done on campus and at research centers around the state. During the first year, Master Gardener volunteers do not have to earn continuing education. After the first year, they will be required to obtain 10 hours of continuing education annually. In addition, they will be required to attend four Master Gardener meetings per year. There are various projects with which Master Gardeners may choose to volunteer their time. Master Gardeners are expected to enter their volunteer and continuing education hours on the Volunteer Management System website, which is maintained at the University of California-Berkeley. Some of the projects Master Gardeners are able to choose from are the Speaker’s Bureau, Media Outreach, Plant Clinic, Master Gardener Task Force, Events, School Gardens, Community Gardens, Youth Gardening, Yard Consultation, Logistics, Marketing, Demonstration Gardens, Plant Sales and Master Gardener Development. From their volunteer work on these projects, Master Gardeners have earned recognition for beautification, county displays and
To elaborate, Master Gardeners may find themselves answering homeowner questions in the Plant Clinic or preparing and presenting programs for the public. Even if you do not aspire to be a public speaker, there are many other ways you can work to educate the public. In addition, the lovely demonstration gardens around the county are a Master Gardener project, which requires attention on a regular basis, and are opportunities to earn your volunteer hours. You may also find yourself interested in soil testing in the Plant Clinic. This project is comprised of testing homeowner soil samples to determine soil pH. If you choose to work in the demonstration gardens as your project, you may choose a garden near your home. Demonstration gardens are located at: • Polk Training Center, 111 Creek Road, Lake Alfred • MacKay Gardens, 900 MacKay Boulevard, Lake Alfred • SPCA Florida, 5850 Brannen Road, Lakeland • Fort Fraser Trail Butterfly Garden at the City of Lakeland Nursery off of Highway 98 South, Lakeland • UF/IFAS Extension Service, 1702 Highway 17 South, Bartow Another fine volunteer opportunity is the annual AgriFest Program. This program has been around since 1988, and has been recognized on a state and national level for service to 4-H and other youth. Over 6,000 Polk County 4th grade students attend this program as a field trip. There different areas are set up continues on Pg. 20
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demonstration/educational gardens.
Market Watch: Pioneer Herbal Products By Libby Hopkins
“We work very hard as a family to make sure we create the best products possible to alleviate pets’ discomfort and give them proper care,” Heijester said. It has been said, “Your greatest wealth is your health.” As I visit the various farmers’ and artisan’s markets all over the Tampa Bay area and beyond, I’m finding that people are becoming very health conscious and getting back to natural ways of healing themselves when they have an ailment. The same goes for their pets. Floris Heijster is the owner of Pioneer Herbal Products and she and her daughter, Nastasia, have a booth at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market. Heijester was born and raised in the Netherlands and has been involved with the equine world her entire life. “I also competed at a national level and have always been involved in the pet business,” Heijster said. “My daughter, Nastasia, has always partaken in my endeavors and we share the same love of pets. Several years ago, we met our partner David who is a master herbalist in the UK. He has worked and refined his talents all over the world. He practiced medicine in the Middle East and started dabbling in herbs. David has taught us everything we know about herbs, natural earth products, and all their miraculous benefits.”
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After moving to the United States, Heijester’s Andalusian horse, Kamerun, as well as her dogs and parrot, suffered from the change in climate. The herbal concoctions she created literally changed her animal’s lives and comfort. “Bug bites, fleas, sweet itch, mud fe-
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ver, ‘no-see-ums,’ you name it, our pets suffered from it,” she said. “We have a passion for everything natural, chemical-free, and organic, so we decided to share this with as many people as possible.” Pioneer Herbal Products was born. According to the website Herbs Love To Know (www. herbs.lovetoknow.com), “There are a number advantages associated with using herbal medicines as opposed to pharmaceutical products. For example, the reduced risk of side effects. Most herbal medicines are well tolerated by the patient, with fewer unintended consequences than pharmaceutical drugs. Herbs typically have fewer side effects than traditional medicine, and may be safer to use over time. Another advantage to herbal medicine is cost. Herbs cost much less than prescription medications. Research, testing, and marketing add considerably to the cost of prescription medicines. Herbs tend to be inexpensive compared to drugs. Widespread availability is another advantage of herbal medicines. Herbs are available without a prescription. You can grow some simple herbs, such as peppermint and chamomile, at home.” Heijester and her daughter love working with herbs and are proud of what they have created with Pioneer Herbal Products. “We work very hard as a family to make sure we create the best products possible to alleviate WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
pets’ discomfort and give them proper care,” Heijester said. “Infusing herbs takes several weeks, so big manufacturers often use chemicals to speed the process. We are family owned and are able to take our time to ensure that all our products’ properties develop naturally. We never use any chemicals, and only purchase the most natural and pure base products we can. Even our essential oils are pure. We hand cut our soaps, hand bottle our sprays and shampoos, and make all of our products on our farm in Plant City.” Pioneer Herbal Products specializes in pet products, especially with lines for farm animals as well as house pets. “We have flea shampoos, flea sprays, dry skin shampoos, bruise and cut ointments and pastes, as well as midge (no-see-um) balms to relieve itching,” Heijester said. “We have an extensive variety of equine products as well to treat hoof diseases and bacteria, parasites, and more. Our horse shampoos and sprays are incredible.” Shopping at local farmers’ markets is something Heijester and her daughter have always done, so it seemed like a natural fit to have their business at farmers’ market. “We enjoy organic, non-GMO, farm fresh products as well as seasonal items,” she said. “Most importantly, we strive to always support family businesses and our local economy. At farmers markets you go on a first name basis, very family-like. You meet so many interesting people, and the social aspect of it makes it all the more enjoyable. Families come out together, often
The mother and daughter team have received positive feedback from their customers at the market. “We have been very blessed with how thankful and gracious our customers have been,” Heijester said. “We have a lot of repeat customers that come through the several markets we are at. Sometimes simply to share their positive experience with our product or to repurchase, and often to share a fun talk. We are incredibly grateful because ultimately our customers are our livelihood, and the word to mouth is the greatest compliment.” If you would like to learn more about the products offered at Pioneer Herbal Products, you can visit their website at www.pioneerherbalproducts.com or call Heijester at 813-416-1093. You can also check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/PioneerHerbalProducts for new products coming out soon. If you would like to learn more about the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market, you can visit their website at www.downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org.
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bring their fur family members along.”
TAMPA BAY FISHING REPORT JUNE 2017 by Capt. Woody Gore
Flipper, Friend or Fishing Foe: Several years ago people began tossing fish to passing dolphins, thinking it was entertaining to see them eat the unwanted fish. Well this quickly become a growing concern and now we’ve created packs of highly intelligent marauding saltwater mammals consuming or killing every living fish leaving a boat. This by the way is a Federal Crime since the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 prohibits feeding or harassing wild marine mammals. Because of peoples irrational foresight we’ve created another problem for ourselves. Think back to school when you learned about Ivan Pavlov’s theory of behavioral conditioning. He discovered the progression of conditioning; which is the progress of changing the behavior of a person or animal by reward or punishment each time an action is performed. Well that same conditioning holds true with the highly intelligent dolphins living and breeding in Tampa Bay. People must understand that every time they offer food they’re conditioning them to associate a food source with boats. Many Dolphin tours/excursions are out to experience dolphins in their natural habit without using the enticement of a food source. I see nothing wrong with these businesses. On the other hand, it’s my opinion that using fish or food to feed or entice dolphins close to the boat is wrong and if they are caught they can be fined under the Mammal Protection Act. If you don’t think a problem exists, ask any fishing guide or recreational angler and they’ll tell you the horrors of seeing their “catch and release” efforts being consumed or killed by dolphins. I see it every time I pull into an area to fish. The minute I stop one, two, three and sometimes four or five dolphins show up waiting for us to release fish. Now here’s an interesting side note; they’re only interested in game and sport fish. Drop a catfish back in the water right in front of them and they completely ignore it. I don’t understand it, but it happens every time. So, in closing this mind rambling, let me leave you with this final thought… STOP FEEDING THE DOLPHINS!
The Bait… especially sardines has finally showed up on the flats and around the markers. However, one day they’re easy to get on the flats, the next day it takes a couple of hours of net throwing. Also we’ve not seen the small fry yet; unless it’s going to be a late spawn. But, when the small ones show up it’s going to be gangbusters on the snapper.
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Capt. Woody Gore (www.captainwoodygore.com)
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The only consistent location seems to be the Skyway Bridge and particularly the south fishing pier. You also have to contend with those strong tide days where it takes at least an 18 pound net to get down to the bait before it collapses with the current. Then there are the dolphins that are now grabbing your net when they are full of bait. Not only does it destroy the net, but it can pull you overboard; so be very careful if dolphins are in the area. Really makes using shrimp much more appealing. WWW.IIN NT THE HEF FIELD IELDM MAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM WWW.
“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing”
813-477-3814
Captain Woody Gore is the area’s top outdoor fishing guide. GuidSnook: (Closed Catch & Release) According to reports ing and fishing the west central Florida areas for over fifty years; he and my own experience the snook are definitely making a showing around the bay area and the bait of choice is live offers world class fishing adventures and a lifetime of memories. sardines. Any decent mangrove shoreline or grass flat is Multi-boat Group Charters With years of organizational experiholding snook. They are also on the beach, but bring your ence and access to the areas most experienced captains, Captain medium tackle as some are reaching 20 lbs. or better. Woody can arrange and coordinate any outing or tournament. Just tell him what you need and it’s done. Spotted Sea Trout: We are catching some really beautiful trout throughout the bay. Many are in the upper teens and some low twenties. Apparently they are eating well beVisit his website at: cause they are fat and healthy with some weighing 3 to 4 lbs. WWW.CAPTAINWOODYGORE.COM Key points to remember are quick hook sets, light leader, moving water, and free-lined sardines or popping corks. Greenbacks, shrimp and artificial lures are doing the trick for me on broken bottom grass flats. I’m either free lining them or fishing them under a popping cork. The artificial’s seemed to work best using a twitch and retrieve method especially through and around open pot holes on grass flats.
send an email to wgore@ix.netcom.com or give me a call at 813-477-3814
Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish & King Mackerel: Spanish mackerel are still plentiful around the bay and near shore in the Gulf. With plenty of threadfins schooling throughout the bay there is plenty of food and the mackerel seem to be on an endless feeding frenzy. Sky rocketing fish and diving birds are a sure indicator of feeding fish. Threadfins, sardines, shrimp or any shiny artificial lure will catch plenty. Don’t forget the sharp teeth on these big bruisers so, tackle up with at least 50/60 lb. Seaguar fluorocarbon and shiny longshank Daiichi hooks and it’s off to the races. Redfish: We’re beginning to see some decent action us-
ing greenbacks, shrimp, cut bait and artificial lures. The dead sticking method is not my favorite way to fish, because there’s not enough action for me. It’s a matter of fishing quietly, slowly and of course being in the right spot. It often takes an intensive game plan that involves several moves before you find a productive area. And hopefully they’re eating when you get there. When all else fails check the docks on high water but, you’ve got to be quiet.
Cobia, Gray Snapper, and Flounder: Cobias are showing up on markers, flats and buoys especially those holding bait. Snapper fishing is picking up on the artificial reefs and should continue as the water stays warm. I’m anticipating a good snapper bite all summer. We’re also catching some nice southern flounder on the same rocky bottom artificial reefs. Tarpon fishing has been thriving at the Skyway Bridge, Egmont, and Bean Point and along the beach and passes. They are also starting to migrate up the bay; I already saw some showing up around the Gandy Bridge. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Putnam for Governor
By Taeler Dupre After serving as Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture for the past six years, Commissioner Adam Putnam has announced that he will run for Governor of Florida. On May 10, 2017, Commissioner Putnam kicked off a 10-day tour that spanned the state of Florida. Commissioner Putnam officially made the announcement of his candidacy for governor in front of the old Bartow courthouse. In his speech, Commissioner Putnam paid tribute to the history that he has with the area by pointing out many things that he can remember from his childhood growing up in Bartow. Beginning at 11, Commissioner Putnam spoke to the more than 2,000 people that were gathered. His focus was based around his roots, being from Polk County and his desire to make Florida a better place as a whole. Beyond his own history, Commissioner Putnam spoke about some of the feats that Florida has had in the past, as well as having more of them in the future. “The state that put a man on the moon can develop the next generation of tools for the next giant leap for mankind,” Commissioner Putnam said. The people that came to the event were from all walks of life. Some people, such as Commissioner Putnam’s elementary school teacher, knew him personally. Others came from surrounding counties and may have never met the commissioner before.
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Heritage, as well as family were outlined as things that are important to Commissioner Putnam. During his speech, his wife, Melissa, and their four children joined him on the stage. After its conclusion, he remained near the stage to talk to people one on one. At the same time, food was provided to everyone present. The event was advertised as a home-
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town BBQ tour, where Commissioner Putnam provided food at each of his stops. As people waited in line, volunteers walked around and passed out signs promoting Commissioner Putnam in his candidacy for governor. Also available were hats and t-shirts. Supporters were given the chance to sign the bus that Commissioner Putnam will continue to travel in during his tour around the state. Commissioner Putnam’s wife and children signed the front of the bus. Commissioner Putnam was born and raised in Polk County. He graduated from Bartow High School. He received a bachelor’s degree in food and resource economics from the University of Florida. Commissioner Putnam’s career in politics began in 1996 when he was elected as a member of the Florida House of Representatives. He became a member of the U.S. House of Representatives in the year 2000, representing Florida. He served as a member of the House until 2010, when he was elected as Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture. During his tenure as Commissioner of Agriculture, one of the things he has focused on the most has been battling Citrus Greening. Since the disease broke out, it has devastated the state’s citrus industry. Commissioner Putnam has worked closely with both scientists and growers as a cure has been sought. He has also worked to obtain more funding for both the scientists and the growers as the disease has been fought. At the same time, Commissioner Putnam has pushed the Fresh From Florida initiative and helped promote Florida grown agricultural products through educating consumers. For more information about Commissioner Putnam and his candidacy for governor, or to contact his campaign team, visit adamputnam.com.
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By Jim Frankowiak
POLK COUNTY SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT RAMPING UP
The Polk County Soil and Water Conservation District (PCSWCD) is “being rejuvenated” as the result of the election of new district supervisors and a commitment to help the agricultural industry in the county, which is facing three decades without any increases in water pumping permits from the Southwest Florida Water Management District. “We have other challenges before us,” said District Chair Brett Upthagrove, “but helping our farmers and ranchers is our top priority.” Upthagrove and co-supervisors Mike Darrow, Dr. Sharon Kaye Masters, Brian Dockery and Joe Garrison, were elected last November and took office in January. “We are a bi-partisan group of two Democrats, two Republicans and an independent with the skills and expertise that will hopefully enable us to achieve our objectives for the District,” said Upthagrove, who brings political acumen and organizational skills to his position. None of the supervisors receive compensation for their roles within the District. Darrow, formerly head of the Temple Terrace Water and Sewer Department, currently has a similar public utilities role for the City of Plant City, brings senior level of hands on expertise to the District, while Dr. Masters, a retired Florida Southern College professor, is considered an ecosystems expert. Dockery offers networking and special event skills; while Garrison offers the District the strengths he developed as a former mayor and city commissioner of Dundee. Some 63 districts were formed in Florida after the state Legislature enacted Chapter 582, Florida Statutes (F.S.), Soil and Water Conservation, primarily in response to the “Dust Bowl” disaster of the early 1930s. That legislation established a state and local partnership with the federal government to protect and restore soil and water resources, and to assist private landowners in using conservation practices. This partnership has worked since its inception to address serious issues related to soil erosion, flood damage and water quality. Each district has statutory authority ranging from project demonstration to land use regulation.
“We function as a conduit among our various partners and landowners, assisting with the identification and facilitation of cost-sharing grants,” said Upthagrove. “Many of these grants are only available through districts, which receive a small portion of grants to help meet operational needs.” As those grants materialize the district identifies other funding sources, the supervisors hope to build a modest staff for ongoing program support. “That would ideally include a mobile laboratory and other technological tools that would help assure that members of the agriculture industry in Polk County are using water resources as most efficiently as possible,” said Upthagrove. Polk County’s new district supervisors are finalizing their overall plan for the near term. “While supporting our farmers and ranchers through water conservation initiatives, we also want to reach the youth of our county and help make them aware of the need to conserve our natural resources,” said Upthagrove. To that end, district supervisors have assisted the FFA land judging contest and the Envirothon, environmental education program, and a speech competition requiring participants to prepare and deliver a 5-7 minute speech addressing the topic: Healthy Soils Are Full of Life. “Early next year, we hope to host the state land judging contest at the FFA Leadership Center at Haines City,” said Upthagrove. “Overall, our plans are ambitious, but vital. Consequently, we are looking at traditional and new ways to help support our efforts on behalf of agriculture in Polk County. The well-being of that industry is not only important to our economy, but to all of us who reside in the county and beyond.” INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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The districts have a long history of joining with partners to provide funding and technical support to help local landowners in conservation efforts. Traditionally, the three main partners are the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Office of Agricultural Water Policy and the counties served by each district.
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You’re Invited To a 100th Birthday Party
By Jack Payne First, the fun part: you’re invited to a 100th birthday party. The Citrus Research and Education Center in Lake Alfred was established in 1917, and in November we’ll celebrate its century of science with a special event. Turning 100 is cause enough for celebration, but it will be more than a social event, because what may be the world’s single largest research center dedicated to a single commodity still has opportunities to share its story. The industry changes, and so do we. For example, not everyone realizes that it’s run by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. That means the center taps into a network of statewide academic expertise on citrus. And while there’s recognition that almost all of our faculty have a hand in the fight against HLB, what sometimes isn’t fully appreciated is their wide variety of expertise: horticultural sciences, entomology, agricultural and biological engineering, food science, plant pathology, soil and water science, microbiology and cell science, and food and resource economics. So we’re determined to get the word out, even after a century. The more folks know us, the more we can help people with science-based solutions. Getting that word out through a 100th anniversary celebration also tells you something else that’s important to know: That the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center is in business for the long haul. We’ve been here through canker, freezes, spreading decline, and a decade of HLB. Many in the industry may know the people of CREC much better than they know the center itself. Indeed, Jackie Burns, Harold Browning, Walt Kender, Bob Koo, and Ivan Stewart
They’ve passed the baton to Michael Rogers and others working today’s greenhouses and experimental groves. In decades to come you’ll be hearing about the breakthroughs of a new generation of scientists that includes Nian Wang, Yu Wang (no relation), and Christopher Vincent. So please save the date of Nov. 29 on your calendars and plan to be in Lake Alfred. We’ll hold it in the Ben Hill Griffin, Jr. Citrus Hall at CREC. We expect we’ll see old friends, longtime supporters, VIPs, and collaborators. But we also hope we’ll see people who aren’t as familiar with what goes on in Lake Alfred and maybe had no idea that it’s been going on since 1917. It’s important to mark this milestone in the history of CREC, a history filled with instances of growers, processors, and other industry players working together to overcome challenges. Coming together, whether it’s in a grove or a conference center, gives us hope for the future of the industry. If for some reason you can’t make it in November, tell your grandsons and granddaughters who go into the citrus business that we hope we’ll see them at our 150th!
Jack Payne is the senior vice president of agriculture and natural resources at the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. jackpayne@ ufl.edu • @JackPayneIFAS INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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were industry leaders, as well as respected scientists.
continued from Pg.11
Who are the
Master Gardeners?
to display the many avenues of agriculture in Florida. The students visit each area and are taught and shown by the Extension agents and volunteers how important agriculture is and how it affects their daily lives. In some of the areas they even get to take part in a hands-on demonstration like squeezing their own orange juice to drink and planting a seedling to take home. Other available activities that some Master Gardeners find appealing are staffing information booths at events around Polk County and at Farmer’s Markets. Or, as my fellow Master Gardener, Pat Farris, and I have done, teach and assist elementary school children in growing and cultivating vegetable and herb gardens, with a dash of pollinator flowers on the side.
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There are numerous opportunities for Master Gardeners to amass continuing education hours. Monthly Master Gardener meetings provide a one-hour program by a gardening professional or UF/IFAS faculty. These professionals present programs on a wide range of subjects from raising orchids to micro-irrigation and a myriad of subjects in between. In addition, UF/ IFAS presents “post graduate” education for Master Gardeners to increase their knowledge, stay current with procedures and research and gain continuing education hours. Also, if they attend a tour, program or demonstration pertinent to Master Gardener education, they may record their time as Master Gardener development.
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As you can see, Master Gardeners assist the County Extension agents in educating residents on emerging issues, and teaching recent research-based information provided through the University of Florida/ Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences in order to meet the needs of a growing Florida population. The mission of the Florida Master Gardener Program is, “to assist Extension agents in providing researchbased horticultural education to Florida residents.” The program extends the vision of the University of Florida/ Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, all the while protecting and sustaining natural resources and environmental systems, enhancing the development of human resources, and improving the quality of human life through the development of knowledge in agricultural, human and natural resources and making that knowledge accessible. It is an equal opportunity institution and functions without regard to race, sex, national origin, religion or disability. If you have questions regarding your landscape or becoming a Master Gardener, you may call your local Extension Service for help to find the answer. You can reach the UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Plant Clinic at 863-519-1041 or online at http://polkextension.com. The Plant Clinic is open Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
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• Avocado’s contains more potassium than bananas. • Florida is the 2nd largest avocado-producing state in the U.S. • November 14th is National Guacamole Day. • Over 45 Million pounds of Avocado will be consumed on Super Bowl Sunday. • The Haas avocado does not begin to ripen until it is harvested (off the tree). • The Apollo 11 astronauts brought guacamole to space with them! However, they did not eat it, since, according to Command Module Pilot Michael Collins, “that pig Buzz Aldrin ate all the chips before we even left earth.” • Avocado competes with buffalo wings and pizza as The Super Bowl Food, thanks to a successful marketing campaign by avocado growers over the past 2 decades. • Avocados are unique fruit. They have a high fat content, but this is a “good” fat – monounsaturated fat. • A whole avocado contains 200-300 calories and is a good source of vitamin A, C, E and the B vitamins, as well as fiber and potassium. • Guacamole is Aztec for “Avocado Sauce”, the original recipe calling for crushed avocado, tomatoes and salt. • The avocado has more protein than any other fruit.
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We Are What We Eat
There are a lot of things I just don’t understand. For instance, my parents ate lots of fried foods, and plenty of desserts with lots of sugar. Today I hear all these foods are bad for you, yet my father lived to be 88 and my mother 93!
They say to eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants. And another thing I don’t understand! Why did God make humans the only living mammal to use toilet paper? Have you ever wondered if there’s anyone else in the world that looks like you? They say there are at least six people that resemble you. There’s a 9% chance you will meet one of them in your lifetime. I have been told that our brain uses the same amount of power as a 10-watt light bulb. Did you know the easiest way to “wake up” the part of your body that falls asleep is to shake your head? I think the reason my back hurts in the morning is because I sleep with a pillow. According to the specialist you should sleep without a pillow to reduce the back pain. Enough of the foolishness, let’s get on with the serious stuff. I just discovered my age group. I am a Seenager. (Senior Teenager) I have everything that I wanted as a teenager, only 50-60 years later. I don’t have to go to school or work. I get an allowance every month from Social Security. I don’t have a curfew. I have a driver’s license and I own my own car. I don’t have acne. Brains of older people are slow because they know so much. We Seenager’s do not decline mentally with age it just takes longer to recall facts because we have more information in our brains. Scientists say this also makes us hard of hearing as it puts pressure on your inner ear. Also, older people often go to another room to get something and when they get there, they stand there wondering what they came for. It is NOT a memory problem; it is nature’s way of making older people get more exercise. We older folks have a lot of questions that have never been answered. They say that money will not make you happy. I would like the opportunity to find out for myself. As for me I believe that experience is the thing you have left when everything else is gone. I truly think that if the world were a logical place, men would be the ones who ride horses sidesaddle.
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Without a doubt Ronald Regan was one of the best Presidents to ever serve this country. He said so many interesting things:
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1- The most terrifying words in the English language are: I am from the government and I’m here to help.” 2- Of the four wars in my lifetime, none came about because the U.S. was too strong. 3- I have wondered at times what the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them through U.S. Congress. 4- Our government is like a baby: An alimentary canal with a big appetite at one end and no sense of responsibility at the other. 5- Government’s view of the economy could be summed up in a short phrase: If it moves, tax it. There’s the story of a man that worked at a meat packing plant. One day as he was finishing his work schedule, he went to inspect a walk in refrigerator. He stepped inside and the door shut. He tried to get out, but the door would not open. He found himself locked in. The man knocked hard on the door and screamed for someone to let him out. The door was thick and no one heard him. Most of the workers had left to go home. He was in the cooler for nearly four hours and on the verge of freezing to death when the door suddenly opened. The security guard found him and gave him some hot coffee to warm him up. The thankful man asked the guard why he came and opened the door when this was not part of his work routine. The guard replied, “ I’ve been in this business for 30 years, with hundreds of workers coming and going each day, but you are the only one who ever greeted me in the morning and said good bye in the evening. The other workers treated me as if I were invisible. This morning you greeted me and said hello but later I never heard you say goodbye, therefore I started to search for you.” This story brings to mind, Matthew 5:47 which Jesus said, “And if you greet your brothers only, what extraordinary thing are you doing? Are not the people of the nations doing the same thing?” This should be a good example for us all! Russell J. Larson should be awarded the “Coolest Headstone” winner in the United States. Engraved on his Tombstone are four rules for men to follow for a happy life. 1- It’s important to have a woman who helps at home, cooks from time to time, cleans up, and has a good job. 2- It’s important to have a woman who can make you laugh. 3- It’s important to have a woman who you can trust, and doesn’t lie to you. 4- It is very, very important that these three women do not know each other or you could end up dead like me. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Florida Forest Service: District 14 By Leslie Buchanon
When most people think about the Forest Service the first thing that comes to mind is Smokey Bear, a fictional bear created by the USDA Forest Service and the Ad Council who has become a beloved symbol for the prevention of wildfires. With forests covering almost half of the land area of Florida, the Florida Forest Service works with both large and small landowners, while managing Florida’s 33 state forests, to assure the land remains healthy and productive. Through the Florida Forest Service, Florida is broken up into four regions and 15 districts, or field units, which provide local support to protect the people and natural resources of each district. The local district for Polk County is District 14, also known as the Lakeland District Field Unit, with its headquarters located in south Lakeland. District 14 provides services to the natural resources, landowners, and residents of Polk, Hillsborough, and Pinellas counties, approximately 2.8 million people. There are a multitude of resources and programs available to the residents of Florida that are sponsored by the Florida Forest Service which allow landowners to work in partnership with local foresters to conserve Florida’s natural resources in an economically viable and environmentally friendly manner.
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One of the many services provided to property owners by each of the district offices within the Florida Forest Service is the opportunity to network with a County Forester. A County Forester will visit the property and assist the landowner with managing forests, preparing management plans, all while educating them about best management practices. Depending on the landowners’ goals for the property, the County Forester can recommend a plan of action to best meet these goals that may include prescribed burns, timber harvesting, or even water quality management. Forest rangers are also available to conduct or assist landowners with prescribed burns on properties to clear and improve pastures, improve wildlife habitat, control diseases, and control invasive plant species. Todd Chlanda, Wildfire Mitigation Specialist with the Florida Forest Service at District 14, explains, “Not all fire is bad. We need fire to help restore native Florida and choke out undesirable plants.”
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A prescribed fire is one of the most economical and effective practices used today to control forest fuels, which reduce the threat of a wildfire, while improving forage for livestock. The Florida Forest Service offers a certification program that allows landowners to conduct their own prescribed burns known as the Florida Certified Prescribed Burn Manager Training. One of the many benefits of becoming a Certified Burn Manager, due to the additional training, is the authorization to implement prescribed burns when others may not be given authorization. Certified Burn Managers are also provided an additional liability protection, as long as the laws and regulations have been followed. The Florida Certified Prescribed Burn Manager is a 24-hour course that is offered in two formats, an online format and a traditional classroom format. The online, or distance learning course, is reserved for those who are experienced burners, while the classroom version is open to individuals of all experience levels. The cost of the course is $175 per student and registration is open year round. In conjunction with the Florida Certified Prescribed Burn Manager Training, the Florida Forest Service offers a Florida Certified Pile Burner Training. Successful completion of this 16-hour training teaches participants how to legally, safely, and efficiently burn piles of debris. Certified Pile Burners “receive priority for authorization to burn by the Florida Forest Service (FFS). Also, certified pile burners are allowed to burn up to two hours longer per day and get multiple day authorizations,” according to the Florida Forest Service. The cost of this course is $50 and it is offered in a traditional classroom setting at intermittent times throughout the year. Livestock are another effective resource used to cut down on forest fuels, however the roughage that is not consumed by the livestock can be removed mechanically or by fire. Mr. Chlanda states, “A few states out west are using goats to reduce vegetation on the floor of forests. They fence off a piece of property and let the goats eat, since they eat anything. When WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
they are finished in that area the fence is moved to a different location and the goats are moved, too.” When asked “What is the most important piece of information you feel the Florida Forest Service would like the home and landowners of Florida to know?” Mr. Chlanda quickly responded, “The Firewise Program.” The Firewise Communities Program is sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and empowers homeowners throughout the United States to work together to reduce the wildfire risk in their community. According to the Firewise Community USA/ Recognition Program, “Using a five-step process, communities develop an action plan that guides their residential risk reduction activities, while engaging and encouraging their neighbors to become active participants in building a safer place to live.” Mr. Chlanda praises this program due to his first-hand experience witnessing the success of the Firewise Program at Indian Lake Estates this year. Indian Lake Estates, located in eastern Polk County, achieved recognition through the Firewise Communities Program for five years, but did not renew their recognition for approximately six to seven years. During this time, however, homeowners continued to follow and practice the concepts of their local action plan. So far this year, Indian Lake Estates has been threatened by two wildfires, one in February 2017 and another in April 2017. Severe drought conditions caused the wildfires to spread quickly and residents had to be evacuated from their homes during the wildfires. Fortunately, due to the residents of Indian Lake Estates continued implementation of the concepts of the Firewise Communities Program, no residential structures were lost. Mr. Chlanda credits the residents of Indian Lake Estates and their commitment to the Firewise Program along with the many forestry staff that battled the wildfires with this amazing achievement. For land owners who are looking for fast and convenient in-
Each of these resources are provided to the residents of the state of Florida to allow and encourage landowners to work in partnership with the Florida Forest Service to protect Florida’s natural resources to ensure they are enjoyed for generations to come. District 14 works in conjunction with other districts throughout the state, and the Florida Forest Service works in conjunction with other state forestry agencies throughout the United States. In the same way that linemen from around the country will support one another when tragedy strikes, state forestry services travel from state to state to help their brothers and sisters fight to control wildfires. Chlanda explains, “Florida sent over 100 persons with equipment to help fight the wildfires in Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina, then Georgia and South Carolina came to help us fight wildfires here in Florida.” He goes on to say, “Nobody has enough resources and personnel to protect everybody and that’s what we’re ultimately charged with. Our main priority is to see that the people of Florida are protected.” The 53 staff members that make up District 14 work tirelessly to do just that….protect the people of Florida. To learn more about any of the programs offered by the Florida Forest Service visit the website at http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Florida-Forest-Service. For local resources provided by the District 14 Lakeland District Field Unit call 863-940-6700. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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formation from the Florida Forest Service there’s now an app that can be downloaded to your smartphone from the Apple App Store and Google Play called FLBURNTOOLS. Through this app users can plan, submit, or request prescribed burn authorizations, view the location of nearby wildfires and other wildfire danger information, view up-to-date drought information, and much more.
Ornamental Gardening in Florida
Part 33
By Ginny Mink We are closing in on three years of reading this book! That just goes to show you that a good book should be meditated upon and fully considered before being stuck back on the shelf. No doubt this month we will be graced with a considerable depth of knowledge from Mr. Torrey Simpson as we travel on our literary time machine back to 1926 to learn more about palm trees and other interesting plants. He starts this section off by discussing a rather interesting process. He writes, “M. saccifera is a native of tropical South America. It has a short, stout trunk and bears a few enormous, almost or quite entire, leaves which attain a length of 30 feet and a width of four or five. This palm grows in immense numbers along low shores at Marajo Island and other tidal swamps at the mouth of the Amazon and its seeds by millions fall into or are washed into the sea being carried along with the great equatorial current and scattered over the North Atlantic.”
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This created such an awe-inspiring image for us because we often think about invasive species being so-called due to human intervention and introduction. His initial description would suggest something entirely different, a matter of nature, a move of God, per se. But he continues, “Thousands of them are washed up along the Florida Keys and the shores of the southeastern mainland but although the kernel may appear perfectly fresh and even the three seeds which grow together be still contained within their husk I have never been able to get one to germinate among the hundreds I have planted.”
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Though he desperately wants to grow these palms it is obvious that it’s not meant to be. He concludes, “They germinate in great numbers along the coast of Brazil but probably become injured by the long immersion in the sea during a voyage so far north.” He’s obviously disappointed. After all, a palm tree with leaves extending four - five feet wide and 30 feet long sure would offer a good deal of shade here! A quick bit of research will reveal to you just how crazy huge those leaves are. But we’ll leave that research to you! His next inclusion is obviously less exciting for him. He writes, “Martinezia caryotaefolia is an elegant but spiny palm which is said to reach a height of from thirty to fifty feet, with a trunk diameter of six inches but most of the specimens I have seen here are not in a flourishing condition. It has leaves something like that of a carat palm but the veins have spines on them.” Obviously, he was not impressed by the palms of this species. He mentions another palm that he says was “…offered by Reasoner Brothers.” These palms grew on his land but were killed by freezing. He suggests that these Oncosperma be grown in warmer parts of Florida. But, we were more intrigued by the Reasoner Brothers reference as we’ve no clue what he’s talking about. An article out of the Herald-Tribune dubs the Reasoner Brothers’ Florida’s Plant Pioneers. A 17-year-old Pliny Reasoner moved here from Illinois in 1881. Pliny bought 40 acres of pineland for $250, and later purchased another 160 acres. His brother, Egbert Norman, came down four years later to help him. They got free seeds from the United States DepartWWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
heads of large, peculiar fruits. It grows in the tidal swamps of the East Indies and adds greatly to the effect of the scenery there. I have repeatedly planted the seeds here in my brackish swamp but the blue land crabs attack the plants as soon as they germinate and have thwarted all my efforts to save them. I believe if once the plant could be established here it would succeed.” Since he was unsuccessful and he said the fruit was peculiar, this palm intrigued us as well. Apparently, the sap is often fed to pigs on the Roti and Savu islands during the dry months. They say it makes the pork sweeter to the taste. In Singapore, they eat the fruit as a dessert. Elsewhere in the world, the sap is converted to alcoholic beverages and vinegars. It is apparently a versatile palm that also encourages the growth of “mud mussels” near its roots/base.³ These are roasted and then eaten. Of course, we admit that doesn’t sound very appetizing. Join us next month as we face some interesting debates about the Royal Palm. We’ll save you a seat! ment of Agriculture and from everybody they knew. Thus, the Reasoner Brother’s Nursery began (you should totally read the whole article, there’s a link in the Resource section).² We have to wonder if Mr. Torrey Simpson was just a patron of their nursery, or if he knew the brothers personally. But, we’ll probably never know, so we digress. He moves on and discusses, “Nipa fruticans. A beautiful plant with creeping rootstocks which send up short stems that bear elegant pinnate leaves ten to thirty feet long and
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. 132-133). ²Herald-Tribune. (October 6, 2003). The Reasoner brothers were Florida’s plant pioneers. http://www.heraldtribune.com/ news/20031006/the-reasoner-brothers-were-floridas-plantpioneers ³Palmpedia. Nypa Fruticans. http://www.palmpedia.net/wiki/ Nypa_fruticans
Y U THE DIFFERENCE IS...
Why Should I Implement BMPs? • Comply with state water quality standards. • Operate more efficiently, reduce costs, and protect the environment. • Avoid certain regulations and expensive monitoring by implementing FDACS-adopted BMPs.
Call FDACS today to enroll: (850) 617-1727 • THISFARMCARES.org S P O N S O R E D BY
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Endangered Species
It’s Wise to Save the Burrowing Owl
The burrowing owl is on Florida’s threatened list. As owl lovers, we felt that providing information about this super cool species, prior to its inclusion on the endangered list, might offer it more hope for survival. Of course the book HOOT (by Carl Hiaasen) and subsequent movie, brought these birds into the limelight far better than we can. But, that’s not going to stop us from trying. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission approved the recommendations made by its staff to move the burrowing owls from the species of special concern position into the threatened level on November 16, 2016. That means that the Imperiled Species Management Plan also got approved. It addresses the needs of 57 different species and their conservation requirements. The burrowing owl is on that list.¹ The burrowing owl is actually a federally protected species according to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. And, they are listed as endangered in Canada and Minnesota. In Mexico, they are on the threatened list like they are here in Florida. This makes it apparent that these cute little owls are in serious danger.² When we say little, we mean it. They don’t get any taller than 10 inches and generally weigh less than 9 ounces (that’s not even as much as a can of soup). Their wingspans are slightly more impressive, reaching up to 24 inches. And, unlike many other owls, the males are the bigger ones with longer wing spans and heavier weight.² Burrowing owls are especially fond of areas with low vegetation that are dry and open. They will generally congregate in deserts, grasslands, rangelands, golf courses, vacant lots, and farmlands. Prior to the downward spiral, this species was common throughout western North America.² Insects and small mammals make up the majority of the burrowing owl’s diet. However, they are known to also eat reptiles and amphibians. Unlike many other animals, they hunt while running or walking across the terrain, though they do swoop down from perches when available. They can hover too, catching insects in the air.² Early spring begins their mating season and they nest in open areas where they inhabit burrows that other animals have dug. They are not picky about nesting, as they can do it alone or in groups. It takes a little less than a month to incubate the 6-12 eggs that are laid. By six weeks, the baby owls fledge, though they stick around the parental territory to forage. They are capable of reproduction once they reach a year old.²
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The identified threats affecting the livelihood and longevity of this species include the loss of their native habit and lack
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By Ginny Mink
of protection for those still in existence. Even rural owls are threatened by disregard for their homes. Sadly, many cleared sites will mimic the native habitats and they prove to be hazardous for the owls that make that mistake. Of course, there’s also predation by domestic animals, vehicle collisions, and the destruction of burrows by equipment and mowers.¹ The conservation goal, to get them off the threatened list, as specified by the Imperiled Species Management Plan, comes with a conservation approach. The idea is to protect and manage current populations and their habitats, and to accommodate the growth we all hope to see. It also seeks to minimize the impact of land development through permitting, technical assistance, and outreach. Education and enforcement will be utilized to protect known burrows and to determine where populations exist.¹ These birds are incredible. They’re the only raptors in North America that use underground nests exclusively. We’re sure their plight has tugged at your heart strings because these aren’t just unique birds, they are also very cute ones (just look at those pictures). There’s no reason we can’t help these weeentities remain on the planet. As we tell you all the time in these segments, God put these animals here for a reason and we are supposed to ensure that they are well-cared for. If you are interested in learning more about how you can help protect the burrowing owl, there’s a link for more information here: http://burrowingowlconservation.org/. You can report a sighting or find out how to care for an injured owl should you find one on your land. There are also videos about burrowing owls at the site. Owls have long been the symbols for wisdom and that means it is probably wise for us to invest some effort in keeping them alive and well. Besides, they eat small mammals, which includes mice and rats. Those are things you’d probably like to see less of on your farms and in your fields, right? Be on a mission to save the owls and they’ll be on a mission to help you out too. Resources: ¹Urban Bird Foundation. Burrow Bites. Florida Burrowing Owl Becomes a State Listed Threatened Species (Nov. 17, 2016). http://urbanbird.org/florida-burrowing-owl-becomes-a-statelisted-threatened-species/ ²Burrowing Owl Conservation Network. Burrowing Owl Facts. http://burrowingowlconservation.org/burrowing_owl_facts/ Photos by: Ray Hennessey (Unsplash) WWW. INIT FIELD MM AGAZINE.COM WWW. NHE THE FIELD AGAZINE.COM
Fresh from Florida Mineral for your Spring Livestock Needs: FMS Super-Min 4 Big Red Blocks and Minerals and FMS Super-Pro Fly Blocks
For dealer information in your area contact us at 800-741-5450 or info@fmsap.com Ask your dealer for, Super-Min poured molasses blocks and Super-Pro pressed protein blocks, the Only blocks manufactured in Florida, by Floridians.Thank you for your business the last 25 Years! We look forward to serving you for many years to come, providing Fresh from Florida products for all your livestock needs. Family Owned and Operated Since 1992.
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Florida Mineral Salt and Agricultural Products
Florida
Cardoon By Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science
If you’re a fan of artichokes, you’ll like fresh Florida cardoon. Also called artichoke thistle, cardone, or cardoni, the cardoon is a member of the same family as the artichoke. Originating from the Mediterranean region, where it is still widely eaten, this thistle-like vegetable is lesser known in the United States. With artichokes, the flower buds are eaten, while with cardoon, the undeveloped flower stalks and leaves are eaten.
It is involved in numerous roles in the body. Magnesium is needed for the development of strong bones and teeth, and it is involved in the regulation of vitamin D, calcium, potassium, and copper in the body. Adequate amounts of magnesium are also necessary to maintain a regular heart rhythm. Cardoon, like many other vegetables, is a great source of magnesium.
Cardoon stalks look like large celery stalks and taste like a combination of artichoke heart and celery. The innermost stalks are white and tender and are considered the edible portion. This vegetable is usually cooked before eating and is frequently boiled, braised, baked, or fried. Interestingly, the flower bud of the cardoon is a vegetable source of rennet, an enzyme used in cheese production. Much like artichoke hearts, which are available canned in brine, cardoon is also available packaged in water or brine. In Florida, fresh cardoon can be found in its peak season from May through July.
Potassium is another important mineral involved in the maintenance of a normal heart rhythm. This mineral and electrolyte plays an important role in skeletal and smooth muscle contraction, which is needed for proper muscular function and digestive function. Potassium also helps to lower blood pressure and contributes to heart health.
Nutrition Cardoon is a very nutritious vegetable that is high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, one cup of shredded cardoon (178grams) contains 30 calories, 7.2 grams of carbohydrate, 2.8 grams of fiber, 1.2 grams of protein, and 0.2 grams of fat. A single cup serving also contains 30% of your daily requirements for folate, 23% for manganese, 21% for copper, 20% for potassium, 19% for magnesium, 12% for calcium, 11% for fiber, and plentiful amounts of the other B vitamins, zinc, phosphorus, vitamin C, and iron.
Folate Folate, also known as folic acid or vitamin B9, plays numerous important roles in cardiovascular health, emotional health, and maintaining blood cells. Folate works closely with vitamin B12 to help make red blood cells as well as to help iron work properly in the body. Without adequate intake of vitamin B12 from the diet, you could develop a type of anemia. Folate also helps to protect the heart by controlling levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that is associated with heart disease at high levels. Additionally, this B vitamin may play a role in slowing the progression of age-related hearing loss.
Magnesium PAGE
Magnesium is an essential mineral to every organ in the body.
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Potassium
How to Select and Store Choose cardoon stalks that are a silvery-green color. The leaves should be soft and pale, grey-green in color. They should feel moist and heavy for their size. Cardoon can be wrapped in plastic and stored in the refrigerator for up to seven days. Before use, rinse cardoon stalks well and trim off the ends and leaves, and discard the tougher, outer stalks. Peel the stalks to remove any tough fibers. Chop into smaller pieces and soak in salted water for about an hour before cooking to prevent any bitterness.
How to Enjoy Cardoons are only edible when cooked. Used in traditional Spanish, French, and Italian dishes, cardoons can be braised, sautéed, boiled in soups and stews, or dipped in batter and deep fried. Ways to enjoy cardoon include: • Simmer the cardoon stalks in stock with other vegetables for a hearty soup • Microwave in a small amount of water until tender • Slice into small pieces and bake with olive oil and cheese • Boil until soft, then slice and serve cold in a salad • Braise pieces of cardoon with any meat dish Enjoy fresh Florida cardoon in its peak season today. Its mild flavor and excellent nutrition makes this vegetable a great addition to any meal.
Selected References http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mv041 http://www.fao.org/traditional-crops/cardoon/en/ WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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FNGLA TOUCHES THE PUBLIC STATEWIDE WITH ‘FLIP MY FLORIDA YARD’ PROGRAM By Jim Frankowiak
The Florida Nursery Grower and Landscape Association (FNGLA), working with Florida’s largest agricultural commodity, does a good job safeguarding its member’s interests in different ways, but its board of directors recognized work needed to be done to “touch” the public. Member interests are continually addressed through political advocacy, benefits, research, trade shows and more. However, maintaining a landscape once it has been installed can be a challenge. “We have that knowledge and expertise and it is our intent to share that knowledge, show the public how to be good overseers of their piece of Florida and demonstrate our growers and landscape contractors collective commitment to stewardship,” said Will Womack, president of Tampa Bay Landscaping and Horticultural Services and state FNGLA Secretary/Treasurer. “It is our plan to touch, teach, demonstrate and enhance in a manner that not only shares our message, but achieves tangible results with respect to elevating the public’s collective knowledge and landscape practices to protect our precious natural resources, while having some fun.” To achieve this multi-faceted goal, the FNGLA state board took advantage of a program presented to it by Emmy Award winning producer Chad Crawford. “Chad’s presentation to our board was perfectly timed. His initial concept was massaged a bit so we could balance stewardship, beauty and commerce,” said Womack.
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The end result is a program called “Flip My Florida Yard” and
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FNGLA’s goal is to have yards “flipped” across the state, addressing the three elements of stewardship, beauty and commerce. “Though we had an approximate formula for show criteria, such as involving flips in each of Florida’s three grow zones so we could highlight our growers’ diversity of materials and contractor techniques for reach, as well as touching select demographics amid the state’s ever-changing and growing population, results were tied to the response of the general public,” added Womack. Crawford Entertainment conducted a statewide Facebook campaign (@FlipMyFLYard) apprising the public of the FNGLA program. Interested homeowners were directed to Crawford’s website (www.crawfordentertainment.tv) where they had to complete a brief survey and request consideration for their yard to be flipped. Winners were selected according to FNGLA criteria. Once notified, FNGLA selected a date for the flip and began design work. “On the flip date, the winner was whisked from their home at 8 a.m. and sent to a local attraction, typically water-related, and spent the next eight hours relaxing,” said Womack. “While they are gone, a team of typically 40-plus industry professionals swarm in and totally transform the winner’s yard.” To date, four shows have been filmed. One featured the home of a Gainesville law enforcement officer; another included a young family with a child with Asperger’s from Orlando, a home near the water in Broward County and a Tampa family of veterans, one of which is paralyzed. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
“Our winner in Tampa was nominated by his mother,” said Womack. “Brandon Walker served his country in the U.S. Air Force and tragically, two years ago, was paralyzed after his service. The lives of all family members have been forever changed. When we heard of Brandon’s story, and the fact that his mom also served in the military, it was a pretty easy decision. They are a loving, close knit group and very much wanted a space where they could fellowship and simply spend quality time outside together.” FNGLA has financed the productions, while Crawford Entertainment has produced and filmed the “flips,” each has been managed by local FNGLA members. In Tampa, Womack was responsible for design and planning, while Autumn Schwab of
“We received in-kind donations from plant and sod growers, irrigation and landscape suppliers, soil suppliers, paver manufacturers and countless FNGLA members,” said Womack. “The list has been huge and each of the flips that have taken place thus far. That support from our industry and association members is particularly gratifying and has allowed us to dramatically flip the involved yards.” Show information can be accessed at: http://www.flipmyfloridayard.com/tv-timesdates.html , and FNGLA information is available by visiting: www.fngla.org.
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Dragonfly Landscape and Water Gardens managed the crews on installation day.
UF-developed mandarin shows increased tolerance to greening By Brad Buck While citrus greening disease has blemished the Florida industry, University of Florida scientists have developed a mandarin hybrid that seems to be winning the battle. Now, researchers are learning what makes this fruit a fighter. UF/IFAS researchers have discovered that a mandarin hybrid developed by colleagues contains cellular activity – known as metabolites -- that makes it more able to fend off greening than most other types of citrus. That’s hopeful news in the state’s battle against the disease that’s severely damaging Florida’s multimillion dollar-a-year industry. It also furthers the evidence that ‘LB8-9’, also known as ‘Sugar Belle®’, is a good, greening-tolerant mandarin hybrid. In 2016, Florida citrus nurseries grew more ‘Sugar Belle’ trees than any other mandarin hybrid except for one, demonstrating grower interest in the variety, said UF/IFAS horticultural sciences professor Fred Gmitter. From field observation, scientists with UF/IFAS found the ‘Sugar Belle’ mandarin is less affected by citrus greening than other mandarins, said Nabil Killiny, an assistant professor of plant pathology. Researchers want to know what makes the ‘Sugar Belle’ resistant. Killiny’s study focused on identifying the chemicals found in ‘Sugar Belle’ trees that have been shown to fight against diseases in other plants.
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Scientists at the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center in Lake Alfred, Florida found ‘Sugar Belle’ mandarin is high in several volatiles and beneficial compounds – known as phenolics. These findings could tell scientists why ‘Sugar Belle’ mandarin is more tolerant to Huanglongbing, or HLB, also known as citrus greening.
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“The results of this study gives more insights about the mechanism behind tolerance of some citrus cultivars to HLB,” Killiny said. “Understanding of the mechanisms behind tolerance to HLB could help in developing economically tolerant citrus cultivars.” Researchers tested volatile and non-volatile metabolites of the greenhouse-grown mandarin trees. Among other traits, volatile metabolites emit odors, while non-volatile metabolites do not. To analyze the metabolites, they used gas chromatography mass spectrometry and found the ‘Sugar Belle’ mandarins to be relatively tolerant. Other newly released mandarins should be further evaluated using greenhouse-controlled studies, the paper says. If tolerance of these hybrids is confirmed, they could be used to replace the traditionally susceptible cultivars. Gmitter and UF/IFAS professor Jude Grosser, co-authors on the new study, developed and released ‘Sugar Belle’ mandarin in 2009 and say they’re very popular with growers. The mandarin hybrid -- a mix of the sweet Clementine and the colorful, bell-shaped Minneola -- has a rich taste and strong aroma, Gmitter said. The sweet-tart fruit may be best described as a mandarin with a tangy punch. Since it spread to the Americas, greening has killed millions of trees and caused a sharp decline in production in many citrus growing regions. Field observations of hybrid citrus, such as the ‘Sugar Belle,’ showed them to be greening tolerant, the study says. The study is published in the journal Plant Physiology and Biochemistry. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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The Rainy Season - Will It Bring Relief? by John Dicks
More than just a few people have been practicing their rain dance. Between our state’s recent and unprecedented drought and the increasing demand for water from the ongoing gains in Florida’s population, we’ve been in an almost desperate need for rain.
Even the time of day for allowable water use was noted when SwiftMud detailed that the restrictions permitted the limited watering (other than hand watering) to be done only before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. Obviously it hopes to avoid what would be considered wasteful evaporation during the heat of the day.
Traditionally, June is the month when rain really blesses Florida. Sometimes we get so soaked we pray for relief and worry about flooding.
As if to really make the point about wasteful watering, SwiftMud also put an end to fundraising events like car washes. All are prohibited during the effective date of the restrictions (unless previously scheduled).
Of course no one really knows nor can predict what the summer may bring us; but we know that the last few months have been bad, very bad.
To get its point across, SwiftMud even setup a special hotline number for people to report a water use violation. For the record, it’s 800-848-0499, ext. 2298.
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (and let’s just call it SwiftMud, like everyone already does) has said that the drought drying out Florida over the last several months has been the worst on record of the 103 years it’s been recorded.
Of course the hope is that the month of June will still come through with her traditional water, raining down from the sky. It is, though, a bit of a dilemma when we are forced to wish for just enough to give us a solid soaking but not more than we wish to handle.
So bad has it been that SwiftMud declared new, tougher restrictions which went into effect June 5th and have been set to run at least until August 1st. They are referred to as Modified Phase III water shortage restrictions and apply to the District’s counties surrounding the Tampa Bay region.
The problem is compounded by noting the drought has been so severe that the ground is unusually dry and a hard rain would cause the tendency of water running off rather than soaking in. Naturally, that leads to flooding.
Lawn watering was cut back by the restrictions to only once a week. Car washing has been likewise limited to the same allowable one day per week. And just to let everyone know who really is boss on these matters, SwiftMud declared that homeowners’ associations would not be allowed to enforce deed restrictions requiring residents to keep their lawns green when doing so could cause an increase in water use. To emphasize the seriousness of the matter, SwiftMud specifically noted that these watering restrictions applied not just to municipal or utility supplied sources of water, but also were mandated to those who use private wells or surface sources such as ponds, rivers, lakes and canals.
Our hoped for rain needs to be soaker rather than a downpour. To really quench our thirst, it needs to percolate down and into to the aquifer so that there’s plenty to be pumped back up and better yet, seep back to the surface naturally via the more than 600 springs throughout Florida. Nonetheless, we’ll take what we can get and I doubt that really anyone will be complaining when the sky releases a downpour. That’s especially so for the folks at the Florida Forest Service who have for months been battling blazes. More than 2,000 wildfires have erupted in Florida since January, several of which triggered evacuations and ultimately destroyed homes and businesses. Relief is really needed. Let the rain dances commence in earnest!
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John Dicks is both a lawyer and a farmer. He and his family own 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. He and his wife, Sharon, live in Plant City, where he served nine years as City Commissioner, including three years as Mayor.
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Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Chicken, Avocado and Swiss Wrap Chef Justin Timineri
DIRECTIONS • In a small bowl combine the yogurt, Dijon, and lemon juice; season with sea salt and pepper, to taste.
INGREDIENTS 3 Florida chicken breasts 1 large Florida avocado, peeled and sliced 4 slices Swiss cheese 4 whole-wheat wraps ¼ cup plain yogurt 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 lemon, juiced 1 lime, juiced Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
• Place two slices of cheese on top of each wrap, place on a cookie sheet and broil in the oven until the cheese melts. • Remove from the oven and add chicken slices to each wrap. • Add sliced avocado, sprinkle with lime juice, and top with yogurt sauce. • Fold the wrap to create a sandwich.
Crispy Peppered Bacon q and Avocado Sandwiches q with Herbed Mayo Ingredients 6 peppered bacon slices 5 tablespoons mayonnaise 3 tablespoons fresh garlic chives, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh Florida dill, chopped 1 firm-ripe Florida avocado (8 to 10 ounces) 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 4 slices whole-grain bread, toasted 1/2 cup Florida sprouts
DIRECTIONS
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• Stir together mayonnaise, garlic chives, dill, and salt and pepper to taste in a small bowl. • Cook peppered bacon in a 12-inch heavy-bottom skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crispy, then transfer to paper towels and allow to drain. • Halve, pit and peel Florida avocado, then slice
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lengthwise onto a plate. • Squeeze lemon juice over avocado slices to prevent browning. • Assemble sandwiches with toast, herb mayonnaise, avocado, peppered bacon and sprouts, seasoning with salt and pepper. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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A Closer LookAmazing Activities Naturally
by Sean Green
Insect Hotel
You can attract a variety of insects to your garden with an insect hotel. Many will be beneficial insects such as various solitary bees and wasps such as the cockroach wasp. This project repurposes materials that may otherwise end up in the trash and is simple and safe enough for young crafters if an adult helps with steps that require sharp objects such as cutting and poking holes. This project can easily become more refined by adding a variety of material to a larger insect hotel made from a one-liter bottle instead of the smaller one illustrated in this activity.
Materials: Empty Soda Bottle Bamboo Dried Grasses (optional) Moss (optional) Rolled Corrugated Cardboard
(optional) Solid Wood with holes (optional) Leather Shoe String Wood Glue (optional)
• Cut the top and bottom off an empty soda bottle (allows air flow to reduce mold and related parasites) • Poke a hole in the top of the soda bottle to thread a leather shoe string through for hanging • Tie a knot in a leather shoe string and thread it through the hole on the top of the soda bottle. • Arrange bamboo pieces to fit snugly into the soda bottle, gluing bamboo if necessary. • Tie a slip not on the loose end of the leather shoe string • Hang the insect hotel in or near your garden plants. A variety of insects will be attracted to your insect motel, (some of which may be invasive). Although the types of insects that are attracted will depend on the material used, it is difficult (if not impossible) to guarantee any specific species will utilize this habitat. If unwelcomed species are attracted to the insect hotel, try a different location or material.
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A Closer Look A Closer Look
by Sean Green
Ambush Bugs (Phymatinae)
Everybody likes a hero right? What if I were to tell you that heroes can come in the smallest of sizes? In fact, they may be found just under your feet, but please don’t step on them. Once you learn more about this little guy you’ll probably want to keep him around because our featured insect for this month specializes in wrangling roaches away from your home. The parasitic marvel Ampulicidae, also known as the cockroach wasp, is a family of solitary wasps the turn roaches into zombies with mind-numbing stings, then leads them away to their demise. Measuring only a couple centimeters, these tiny wasps are easily overlooked or regarded as an ant. If your gardening strategy includes beneficial insects, we hope you’ll take a closer look at this tiny wasp and welcome it into your garden. Ampulex is a genus of wasps in the Ampulicidae family. The genus has more than 130 species worldwide, most of which occur in the old world tropics. We have only two species of Ampulex in the United States, both of which are found in Florida. (Ampulex canaliculata) is widespread throughout the eastern United States as far west as Kansas and (Ampulex ferruginea) is a species that has only been recorded in Florida and Texas. Both species have physical features supporting ant mimicry and look more like a twig ant (Pseudomyrmex gracilis) than a wasp. In fact, you may have occasionally brushed one of these off a picnic table or your leg thinking it was an ant. Although these wasps have wings, and are quite capable of flight, they specialize in hunting roaches and are more likely to be afoot, patrolling tree trunks and leaf litter where roaches tend to thrive. Once a roach is found the real drama begins and if you ever get a chance to witness the interaction, it will be well worth your time. The attack begins with the wasp hovering over the roach or stalking it for an opportunity to grab the roach with her mandibles. Once captured, the wasp will hold the roach still while she curls her body underneath to deliver a single sting to a nerve center located under the roach between the first pair of legs. The neurotoxins in the wasp venom quickly paralyze the roach so the wasp can deliver another sting for the second stage of the attack with more accuracy. The second sting is more critical and must be delivered to the nerve ganglia (brain center) of the roach. This wasp’s stinger is unusual in that it has evolved to become much more than a simple stinger or egg laying instrument. It is also a sensory organ that helps the wasp feel the position of the stinger inside the roach’s body so the wasp can inject its mind-altering venom into two precise sections of the roach’s ganglia (brain). The
Instead of completely paralyzing the roach, the venom alters the roach’s response to brain signals that tell the roach to flee. The roach still gets the signals from the ganglia (brain), but seems to ignore the command to run. The toxin not only makes the roach ignore the response to flee, but the roach becomes obsessed with hygiene and begins grooming itself for as long as 30 minutes after its front legs recover from the first sting that temporarily paralyzed the roach. The act of grooming itself is actually a result of the dopamine components of the wasp venom. Some scientists speculate that the dopamine in the venom triggers the cleaning response to insure the roach remains clean and microbe free as it will eventually be the food source for the wasp’s young. Other scientists argue that the cleaning response is just a distraction to keep the roach busy as the wasp prepares the chamber in which the roach will be entombed. The wasp leaves her victim to clean while she scouts the area for a suitable location for her young. Ideally, the wasp will find a hollowed stick or build a dark burrow large enough to protect her young and the roach host. When the wasp has finished preparing the brood chamber, she returns to the roach, now under full control of the wasp venom. The roaches motor abilities are functional, however, the roach has lost it’s impulse to flee and will seem to remain in a calm and content state of mind. The wasp, exhausted from the battle and building of the brood chamber, replenishes her energy by biting off the tip of the roach’s antenna and sips some of the nutritious roach blood as if through a straw. Using what is left of the antenna like a leash, the wasp tugs on the antenna leading the roach to the pupal chamber she has prepared for her young. The roach actually cooperates in the effort by walking itself to the chamber at the wasp’s lead. Once the wasp leads the roach inside the burrow, she lays a single egg on the zombified cockroach and seals the chamber. The egg hatches and the wasp larva burrows into the roach to consume it from the inside while developing through pupation to eventually emerge as an adult. Although this species will prey on the introduced common cockroach (Periplaneta) that we typically find in or near our homes, their favorite prey are members of the native wood cockroach genus (Parcoblatta). Regardless of which species this wasp will attack, many will regard this tiny wasp as a local hero. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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venom begins to take effect quickly and essentially turn the roach into a living zombie that can be easily controlled.
By Grady Judd, Polk County Sheriff
Let’s All Practice Boating Safety The sun glistening on the waves of the water, the sound of laughter filling the air, it’s finally that time of year again: summer! Summer is such an enjoyable season to spend with family and friends, soaking up the Florida sun out on a boat. Yet before you can kick back and relax on the waves, you should familiarize yourself on boating safety regulations. The minimum age to operate personal watercraft in Florida is 14. Photo ID should also be carried by anyone 21 years of age or younger who is controlling the vessel. To ensure safe boating, make sure your passengers are aware of the guidelines and agree to follow them. In the case of emergency, make sure your boat is prepared with supplies such as fire extinguishers, flares, and additional provisions. There should also be life vests of multiple sizes to accommodate all passengers. Any child under the age of 13 is required to wear a flotation device while they are on the boat. Of course, it is our preference that everyone and anyone in a boat wear a personal flotation device at all times. Unfortunately, we have seen firsthand the dangers of not wearing one. Even the strongest swimmers can become a drowning victim after falling overboard.
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Be cautious of the maximum occupancy limit before setting off on to the water. When piloting the boat, make sure you are careful of other boaters, swimmers, and any change in nearby weather. Operating a boat while drinking alcohol is strongly discouraged. Alcohol
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impairment will reduce your reaction time, endangering you and your passengers, as well as setting a poor example for any kids and teenagers on board. If you decide to go for a swim while boating, be attentive to younger kids as they swim. They should have constant adult supervision. Do not allow yourself to become distracted while watching over children - it only takes a few seconds to lose sight of a child. Finally, make sure to take care of yourself and the other passengers on the boat. Stay hydrated by drinking water frequently; avoid the excessive use of alcohol or caffeine. Be diligent in applying sunscreen throughout the day. Boating safety should be taken seriously. As people flock to the beaches and lakes, be mindful of these safety tips, especially in crowded areas. Using these tips, this summer should be a safe and enjoyable for summer for all. Rest assured that the PCSO Marine Unit will be out and about on our many beautiful lakes, every weekend this summer, checking vessels for safety and readily available to assist any boaters in need. We have two fulltime Marine patrol deputies, their Sergeant, and three Reserve deputies, dedicated to keeping our waterways safe. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Marine Unit at 863-534-7205. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Polk County Cattle Women Greetings, Summertime is upon us, the weather is hot, the kids are out of school and it’s time for the annual Florida Cattlemen’s Convention. As you are making plans for convention, please remember to include all the FCW activities in your schedules. On Tuesday June 20 Florida Cattlewomen will host their welcome reception at 2 p.m. The general membership meeting will be held on Wednesday June 21 from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. The membership breakfast will be held on Thursday June 22 at 7:30 a.m. I hope everyone has a great time and enjoys fellowshipping with members from all over the state. With the recent drought that has plagued our region, the USDA has released funds to assist livestock producers. A Livestock Forage Program (LFP) provides compensation to eligible livestock producers who suffer grazing losses for covered livestock due to drought on privately owned or cash leased land or fire on federally managed land. County committees can only accept LFP applications after notification is received by the National Office of qualifying drought or if a federal agency prohibits producers from grazing normal permitted livestock on federally managed lands due to qualifying fire. Polk County is now eligible for 2017 LFP for annual crabgrass, full season improved and native pasture for grazing. Polk County is eligible for a maximum three-month payment factor. The qualifying drought date is May 2, 2017. If you owned livestock as of this date please contact the USDA office to make an appointment. Eligible livestock producers must complete a CCC-853 and
On Saturday June 2 members from Pasco County Cattle Women hosted the Bonfires and Wine Event at the pristine Bird Island Lake Ranch in Dade City. The event provided an opportunity for Cattle Women from several surrounding counties to get together to fellowship and enjoy an evening under the stars. Dinner included a fabulous steak with all the fixings. After dinner, the ladies were treated to dessert and a cowboy movie. The ladies in attendance from Polk County Cattle Women had a wonderful time. If you are interested in joining us, our next meeting is Wednesday July 5. We will meet in the Stuart Center at the Polk County Agriculture Complex 1702 US Hwy 17 S, Bartow to decorate for the Cattlemen’s Summer Dinner at 6 p.m. The meeting will start at 6:30 p.m. I hope to see you there! Be good and do good deeds,
Megan Atkinson
Polk County Cattle Women President
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the required supporting documentation no later than January 30, 2018 for 2017 losses. For more information on these programs, visit www.fsa.usda.gov/disaster or contact your local FSA office. To find the local FSA office, visit http://offices.usda.gov.
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Classifieds
Tel: 813.759.6909 Info@inthefieldmagazine.com
ANIMALS & NEEDS ANIMAL & BIRDCAGES
Equipment serving the fur bearing animal & exotic bird industry! Cages built to order. Wire by roll or foot. (813) 752-2230. Call Don Ammerman. www.ammermans.com July 16, 2017, Nov. 26, 2017
CHICKEN MANURE FOR SALE
Dry and available IMMEDIATELY! SPREADER TRUCK RUNNING AGAIN! Call Tim Ford (863) 439-3232
2004 KUBOTA M120
Tractor with cab and Loader. $22,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
USED MOWERS
Zero turn mowers. Good Condition. Price starts at $1,000. Call Alvie 813-759-8722
2015 MASSEY FERGUSON
1739ELL Tractor w/ loader. 243 hours, 4x4, 39hp, hst. Warranty!! $16,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
1998 MASSEY FURGUSON
Tractor 95hp, 4x4 open station with loader. $15,000 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
ROUND BALES
Pangola Hay herbicided & fertilized Call Dale 863-229-9876 or John 407-448-5608 FMC 352 Air Blast Sprayer. Good condition. BUILDING SUPPLIES $3,500.00 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
METAL ROOFING
Thousands of 8ft. & 10ft. sheets. In Stock. Prices from $6 and up. Custom lengths available. 813-752-7088 ask for Ferris.
ALUMINUM
We have all your aluminum needs! Screen Room, carports & awnings. Call Blake (813) 752-3378
WINDOW SCREENS
We make window screens of all sizes available in different frame colors. Call Ted(813) 752-3378
CABINETS
Everything you need under ONE roof! Call Blake 813-752-3378
CALL FOR A WINDOW QUOTE. We are a Simonton/MI Windows dealer. Our windows are energy star, lifetime warranty. Call Broke & Poor 813-752-3378
FARM EQUIPMENT TAYLOR WAY TILLER DISC Plow - good condition. $1750.00 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
MAHINDRA 2015
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Tractor w/ Loader, 4x4, 20hp. $7,950 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
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June 2017
BRAND NEW HUSTLER RAPTOR
Zero Turn Mower 52” cut, 23hp. Kohler engine, 3 year warranty. $2,999 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 60” cut price was $10,356 buy now for $8,800. Call Alvie 813-759-8722
REAL ESTATE
FOR RENT
Millcreek Pine Bark Row Mullcher. For blueberry farms, six yard, PTO drive need at least a 30hp tractor. Call 863-604-2526 for rental details.
METAL WAREHOUSE
3200 sq. ft. Metal warehouse for lease. Located in E. Bartow off of highway 60. For more information call 863-221-0986
FOR SALE BY OWNER
2 beautiful adjoining farms. 26 acres, all muck land. Lovely 4 bedroom home. Includes small beef heard & calves. $737,000 www.floridabeulah.com 813-541-3490
4X8 sheets 4” on center. $26.95 Call Blake 813-752-3378
MOBILE HOME SUPPLIES
LAWN EQUIPMENT/ SUPPLIES
Used Lawn Trailer with aluminum plate tool PRODUCE box. 5ft tongue & heavy duty gate. $1,650 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 FRESH PRODUCE Road Produce. Open everyday from 2015 MAHINDRA EMAX TRACTOR Forbes 7:30am - 8pm. Forbes Rd. & I-4 @ exit 17. 4wd with 60” mid mount mower. 39 hours, Come out and see us! warranty. $9,950 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
T-111
Metal brand new in bo 54” Mobile Home Tubs Call Ted (813) 752-3378 $199.00
Agriculture / Grove Equipment tractor parts sales person. Experience a plus, Computer skills a must! Call 813-759-8722 or 863-537-1345
7X15 LAWN TRAILER
All wood kitchen cabinets. All wood vanities. Granite counter tops. Custom made to your size. Call Blake 813-752-3378
MOBILE HOME TUBS
JOBS Now Hiring Experienced Barn Builders 813-754-1766 HIRING
HESSTON 3710 TEDDER
Priced to sale. Call Alvie 813-759-8722 ROSSI CADDY 8 HAY RAKE Call Alvie 813-759-8722
FOR SALE KITCHEN CABINETS & VANITIES
Get quality all wood cabinets for less than the BIG Box STORES! Call Today! Ask for Blake. (813) 752-3378
SERVICES CALLER ON HOLD
A low cost service that enables you to communicate important information about your business to customers while they are on hold. No monthly payments or annual payments. Call today and ask for Al (813) 763-2220
MISC.
DOORS & WINDOWS SPECIAL ORDER FREE Wooden Shipping Pallets No upcharge. House & Mobile Home. Many standard sizes in stock. Ask for Blake. (813) 752-3378
2013 YAMAHA ZUMA
125cc, clean, great condition. Only 130 miles, garaged kept. $2,200 Call 813-758-3864
All sizes! Call Alvie 813-759-8722
RUBBER MULCH
All Colors, buy 10 bags, get 1 FREE! $8.99 a bag. Call Ted (813) 752-3378
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