In Florida, citrus growers, including those in Indian River County, continue their endeavors despite challenges. "We believe this is worth fighting for," states Tim Sallin, co-CEO of IMG Citrus. The sentiment is echoed by Aubrey Greene, managing her family's citrus and cattle lands, leveraging social media for fruit sales.
Florida's peak citrus production occurred during the 2003-2004 season, producing 242 million boxes. However, projections for the 2023-2024 season have dropped to 11.6 million boxes. The decline is most noticeable in the Indian River Citrus District, once known for its grapefruit, which has been significantly reduced from its peak.
Packing houses in the area have dwindled, with only three remaining, according to Dan Richey of Riverfront Packing. Historically large citrus groves now scarcely exist east of I-95.
Challenges like hard freezes, disease, hurricanes, and competition have beset the industry. The spread of citrus greening by the Asian citrus psyllid is a major issue. Efforts involving strategies like using nets to block insects, spraying clay on leaves, and administering antibiotics are ongoing. Progress includes potential gene-edited trees and enhancements to trees' immune responses.
Some growers are adapting by increasing tree density for better yields and focusing on local markets. Vertical integration further allows growers control, from planting to sales, as seen with Richey and the Smith family's operations. Initiatives like these permit bypassing middlemen, maintaining slim profit margins.
Citrus operations are diversifying, aided by previous tactics from industry veterans like Barney Greene, who advocated diversification, including cattle rearing. The Greene family, among others, continues pairing citrus with other ventures, following historical precedents.
Passion drives these efforts, with family traditions deeply embedded in the citrus industry's ethos. Relationships between generations in families like Sallin's maintain operational continuity. "If we can keep it for many generations, that will be wonderful," remarks Michel Sallin.
The sentiment underscores the resilience and dedication within families who have shaped Florida's citrus legacy. Greene illustrates this vigor through her steadfast commitment and endeavors on her family's groves, renewed each day with the early dawn. Her dedication reflects broader efforts to sustain the industry's historical and economic significance.
Source: VeroNews