On Tuesday, citrus growers appealed to state lawmakers to continue funding research and advertising as the industry’s production has plummeted by over 90% in less than thirty years. Without this support, many of the 1,500 remaining citrus growers in Florida may abandon the industry.

During a session with the Senate Agriculture Committee, Matt Joyner, CEO and Executive Vice President of Florida Citrus Mutual, emphasized the crucial need for continued research funding to combat the devastating citrus greening disease. Shannon Shepp, Executive Director of the Department of Citrus, highlighted the importance of marketing funds, quoting Henry Ford: “Stopping advertising to save money is like stopping a clock to save time.”

Shepp expressed optimism for the industry’s revival, while Joyner stressed the goal of planting trees resistant to citrus greening, which is spread by the Asian citrus psyllid. “Losing the citrus industry is not an option,” Joyner asserted, noting the industry’s significant economic impact and its role in aquifer recharge and wildlife habitat.

At its peak in 1998, Florida produced 244 million boxes of oranges and 50 million boxes of grapefruit. This season, the U.S. Department of Agriculture projects just 12 million boxes of oranges and 1.2 million boxes of grapefruit. The industry has faced pressures from citrus greening, development, hurricanes, and freezes. Fort Myers-based Alico Inc. recently announced its exit from the citrus business, reducing the state’s citrus acreage by approximately 12%.

The current state budget allocates over $47 million for the citrus industry, including $29 million for citrus greening research and $9 million for marketing. Governor Ron DeSantis’ proposed 2025-2026 budget includes $20 million for citrus research and the Citrus Health Response Program. Lawmakers will consider this proposal in the upcoming legislative session.

Senate Agriculture Chairman Keith Truenow suggested reassessing property value assessments for citrus groves, while Sen. Colleen Burton stressed the need for state support to prevent further decline in the citrus industry. “Floridians want Florida orange juice,” Burton stated, highlighting the importance of educating consumers about the origin of their orange juice.

Follow the St. Pete-Clearwater Sun on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Google, & X

(Image credit: Bloomberg)