Many people are surprised to learn that agriculture is Florida’s second-largest industry, generating billions of dollars annually and providing jobs and economic stability for our state.

Keeping agriculture viable is crucial for Florida’s continued stability and prosperity. We believe it is important for the public to understand the vital role agriculture plays in the well-being of our state, not just in these current uncertain times, but into the future.

To help foster a better understanding about the importance of agriculture to Florida’s economy, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has joined with the Florida Farm Bureau Federation to develop this public awareness campaign called "Safe, Affordable and Abundant: Food for thought, from Florida’s farmers."

Florida agriculture is not usually visible to the general public, and, as a result, most Floridians and visitors are not aware of its vital importance. We want to help the public be well informed about the immense value of this bedrock of our state’s economy. Florida farmers receive nearly $7 billion in cash receipts for crops and other commodities annually. In addition, Florida agriculture and forestry products have an estimated overall economic impact of more than $87 billion annually.

More than 42,500 Florida commercial farmers are among the most productive in the world. Growing more than 280 different commercial crops, they furnish the nation with a dependable and safe supply of food, and provide Florida with a stable economic base. Florida is the nation’s ninth agricultural state overall, ranking first in citrus production, and second in the production of vegetables and horticulture products.

However, Florida agriculture faces many challenges. Thousands of acres of farmland are lost each year to urban sprawl and development. In addition, Florida growers are at a disadvantage in the global marketplace, competing with foreign companies that often do not pay taxes, do not follow environmental regulations, and pay below-poverty-level wages.

This public awareness campaign focuses on: how affordable food is for American consumers; the abundance, variety and safety of Florida agricultural products; and the importance of maintaining a reliable and secure domestic food source.

The campaign includes television public service announcements, radio, outreach programs, newspaper and magazine articles, and other informational and promotional media. The Florida Farm Bureau Federation is funding the initiative, while the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is providing marketing and advertising services in accordance with its statutory responsibility to promote Florida agriculture.

Florida Farm Bureau Federation has served Florida agriculture for more than 60 years. With more than 144,400 members, Florida Farm Bureau is the state’s largest agricultural organization. There are county Farm Bureaus in 62 counties in the state.

We hope you enjoy your visit to www.florida-farmers.com and come away with a better understanding of the importance of agriculture to our state.

Sincerely,

Charles H. Bronson Commissioner of Agriculture, State of Florida		John Hoblick President,  Florida Farm Bureau Federation