The Florida Citrus Commission and the Florida Department of Citrus have been working to address ongoing challenges in the citrus industry, according to a Jan. 24 column by Chairman Steve Johnson. The first United States Department of Agriculture Citrus Crop Forecast was released on Jan. 12, following a delay caused by a government shutdown, with estimates showing a slightly smaller crop than last year.
Johnson said that despite this prediction, there is optimism among growers due to positive reports from the current harvest. He also noted ongoing difficulties such as citrus greening management and recent freeze watches but expressed hope for continued perseverance and replanting efforts.
Commissioner Bill Poulton commented during the Jan. 21 Florida Citrus Commission meeting: “There’s no better people anywhere that I’ve ever worked with than the Florida Citrus grower. They are the heart and soul and backbone of this industry, and I have no doubt that with the leadership of Florida Citrus growers, this industry is going to see a new day and a better day.”
During committee presentations, Dr. Marisa Zansler shared her outlook for the upcoming season along with updates on consumer sentiment and marketing opportunities for Florida Orange Juice and other citrus products. These presentations are available online at FDOCgrower.com.
The commission also discussed how fresh citrus remains featured in national dietary guidelines as part of a balanced diet, emphasizing that orange juice is considered “real food” without added sugar.
Poulton announced his retirement from Tropicana after decades in the industry; he will no longer serve on the commission but was recognized for his service through an official resolution.
Johnson announced Commissioner Melanie Ressler’s unanimous election as Vice Chairman of the commission, noting her role in advising staff amid growing interest in expanding fresh market sales.
According to the official website, most groves are family-owned by multi-generational growers who fund operations through assessments paid per box harvested. The department supports an industry employing over 32,500 people with an annual economic impact of $6.9 billion according to its website. It also contributes tax revenues supporting schools, roads, and health care according to its website.
The agency operates under an eleven-member commission appointed by Florida’s governor representing growers, processors, and packers according to its website.
Looking ahead, Johnson reminded stakeholders about key dates including a workshop on fresh marketing scheduled for Jan. 29 at FDOC headquarters in Bartow.
