Time has played a significant role in shaping perspectives within the Florida citrus industry over the past year, according to Steve Johnson, Chairman of the Florida Citrus Commission. Reflecting on the period since Hurricane Milton, Johnson noted differing viewpoints among those involved in the sector. “Some might say, ‘Wow, can’t believe it’s only been a year since Hurricane Milton, so much has happened.’ Others might marvel at how quickly time has passed, saying something like, ‘I can’t believe it’s been a year already.’ No matter what camp you sit in, however, there’s one thing you can’t deny: how we’ve worked together to make good use of our time these last few months has given the Florida citrus industry some good momentum going into this season,” Johnson said.
Johnson highlighted that the Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC) has mirrored this industry momentum by engaging in several initiatives over recent months. He referenced not only the launch of a new partnership between Florida Orange Juice and the Tampa Bay Lightning but also ongoing efforts across various areas crucial to the citrus sector. “We’ve been busy these last few months, not just in launching the new partnership I talked about in my last column between Florida Orange Juice and the Tampa Bay Lightning, but in all facets and areas of vital importance to the industry,” he stated.
Industry members are encouraged to attend the upcoming Florida Citrus Commission (FCC) meeting scheduled for Wednesday, October 22 at 9:00 a.m., which will take place at FDOC headquarters in Bartow.
Steve Johnson serves as Chairman of the Florida Citrus Commission and is also owner and general manager of Johnson Harvesting, Inc., located in Wauchula, Florida.
