Key Takeaways:
- Florida’s citrus industry is experiencing a revival after years of decline due to canker and citrus greening.
- The use of Citrus Under Protective Screen (CUPS) is a key factor in the industry’s recovery, as it prevents disease and promotes healthy tree growth.
- The CUPS method has increased tree density to over 300 trees per acre, double the traditional method, and has led to higher yields and faster growth.
- The comeback of the citrus industry could strengthen local jobs, preserve agricultural heritage, and ensure consumers have access to fresh, high-quality citrus.
- The industry plans to continue expanding screened groves and resistant varieties, and will monitor yields, market demand, and environmental factors to determine the long-term viability of the CUPS model.
Introduction to the Citrus Industry Revival
Florida’s citrus industry is experiencing a significant turnaround after years of struggling with canker and citrus greening, a pest-borne disease that devastated orchards statewide. The industry’s decline had a major impact on the state’s economy, as citrus is a significant contributor to Florida’s agricultural sector. However, with the introduction of new technology and innovative farming methods, the industry is now thriving. Dun-D Citrus Growers, a cooperative of local farmers, is at the forefront of this revival, using a method called Citrus Under Protective Screen (CUPS) to grow healthy and disease-free trees.
The CUPS Method
The CUPS method involves growing citrus trees under massive screened structures that exclude the Asian citrus psyllid, the insect that spreads citrus greening. This approach not only prevents disease but also diffuses sunlight, promoting healthy tree growth and increasing yields. The screens are designed to allow for air circulation and moisture penetration, creating an ideal environment for the trees to thrive. As a result, tree density has increased to over 300 trees per acre, double the traditional method. This has led to a significant increase in production, with Dun-D Citrus Growers packaging over a million pieces of fruit per day.
Impact on the Industry and Economy
The revival of the citrus industry is expected to have a positive impact on the state’s economy, as well as the local community. The industry’s growth could strengthen local jobs, preserve agricultural heritage, and ensure consumers have access to fresh, high-quality citrus. Florida citrus is a major part of the state’s economy, supplying millions of oranges and grapefruits nationwide. The comeback could also lead to increased economic activity, as the industry expands and creates new opportunities for farmers, workers, and related businesses. According to Steven Callaham, the CEO of Dun-D Citrus Growers, "We are building screen structures, then planting clean, healthy citrus trees inside of them. If you don’t have the disease, then you can go back to how you were growing citrus 30, 40 years ago."
Future Prospects and Challenges
The future of the citrus industry looks promising, with growers planning to continue expanding screened groves and resistant varieties. The industry will monitor yields, market demand, and environmental factors, including hurricanes and future disease pressures, to determine the long-term viability of the CUPS model. While there are still challenges to be addressed, such as the high capital expense of building and maintaining the screened structures, the numbers indicate that the investment is worth it. As Jennifer Schaal, CFO of Dun-D Citrus Growers, noted, "We see this great fruit coming through our packing house and going out to our customers, and we would not be able to do it without CUPS." The industry’s ability to adapt to changing conditions and invest in new technology will be crucial to its long-term success.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the citrus industry in Florida is experiencing a significant revival, thanks to the introduction of the CUPS method and other innovative farming practices. The industry’s growth is expected to have a positive impact on the state’s economy and local community, and could lead to increased economic activity and job creation. As the industry continues to expand and evolve, it will be important to monitor yields, market demand, and environmental factors to ensure the long-term viability of the CUPS model. With the right combination of technology, scientific research, and legislative backing, the citrus industry in Florida is poised for a bright future. As Callaham noted, "Even with hurricane damage, even with the large capital expense of making repairs, the numbers still work." The future of the citrus industry in Florida is looking bright, and with continued innovation and investment, it is likely to remain a significant contributor to the state’s economy for years to come.
