The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) recently announced the pending retirement of multi-county citrus Extension agent Chris Oswalt. Oswalt has been the agent for Polk and Hillsborough counties for decades.
Michael Rogers, UF/IFAS statewide citrus research and Extension coordinator, said Oswalt “has faithfully served and greatly benefited numerous growers, researchers and his fellow Extension agents.”
“From early work on the Florida Department of Citrus’s mechanical harvesting project, to a stint with an agri-chemical company in the late 1970s, Chris eventually found his calling in citrus production and Extension work,” Rogers reported. “He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degree at UF and accumulated a lifetime of experience that he has generously shared with Florida growers throughout his career.”
Rogers offered additional observations about Oswalt:
“Those of us who have worked alongside Chris know that he is the embodiment of practical wisdom. Growers know him as a go-to resource, someone whose advice is always grounded in reality and keenly aware of the challenges growers face in their grove operations. Researchers and fellow Extension specialists have long relied on his guidance to translate scientific research into practical, workable strategies.
Rogers said Oswalt has always exhibited an uncanny ability to grasp the intersection of science with the art of production, a skill he honed through years of hands-on experience and careful observation.
“Throughout his career, Chris has played a key role in shaping Florida’s citrus Extension programs,” said Rogers. “He has been a leader among UF/IFAS citrus agents, mentoring new colleagues and preparing the next generation of Extension professionals.
“His contributions to events like the Florida Citrus Growers’ Institute in Avon Park have brought growers, researchers and industry partners together year after year, fostering collaboration, sharing critical knowledge and strengthening the Florida citrus industry as a whole.
“Those of us who have benefited from Chris’s guidance know that his legacy extends far beyond technical knowledge. He has been a friend to many and is respected by all. He has a generosity of spirit that makes him approachable, whether mentoring colleagues, advising growers or collaborating with researchers.
“Looking back, it is clear that Chris will retire having left an indelible mark on Florida citrus.”
Source: UF/IFAS Citrus Magazine
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