The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) has opened the nomination period for the 2022 Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award. Nominations must be submitted to FDACS by April 15, 2022. Get the nomination form here.
“Through work in soil and conservation, pesticide and nutrient management, wildlife habitat conservation, and so much more … significant environmental contributions are the backbone of Florida’s thriving agriculture industry, making a true difference in our state,” said Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried. “This award program seeks to recognize the Florida agriculturalists who are at the forefront of developing and adopting environmentally innovative farming practices.”
Since 1994, the award program has helped highlight the efforts of the state’s growers and ranchers. Publicly acknowledging the efforts of these award winners illuminates Florida agriculture’s dedication to preserving the environment and conserving natural resources while helping ensure a continuing supply of food and fiber.
The following environmental practices will be considered in judging nominations for the 2022 Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award:
- Wildlife Protection and Habitat Conservation: Provide a safe, viable habitat for wildlife within an agricultural operation.
- Pesticide/Nutrient Management: Use pesticides/nutrients responsibly, maximizing benefits and minimizing potential adverse environmental effects.
- Water Quality: Preserve or improve water quality within or adjacent to an agricultural operation.
- Soil and Water Conservation: Reduce soil erosion, nutrient depletion and water consumption; and enhance water recharge.
- Waste Management/Recycling: Reduce waste by recycling agricultural byproducts and waste products on site.
Nominations may cover one or a combination of the listed activities. Nominations are evaluated by a committee composed of representatives from:
- FDACS
- The Nature Conservancy
- The state’s water management districts
- Florida Farm Bureau
- Florida Cattlemen’s Association
- Florida Dairy Association
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection
- Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- Florida’s soil and water conservation districts
- Florida Citrus Mutual
- Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association
- Florida Forestry Association
Learn more about the Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award, including past winners. Citrus grower Brad Turner received the award last year; read why.
Source: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
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