Miami-Dade County’s Agricultural industry is one of the most diverse in the country. Our tropical climate provides us with a year-round growing season, as well as the ability to produce an extremely wide range of crops. Employing more than 20,000 people and producing more than $2.7 Billion in economic impact each year, this industry is a valuable resource for Miami-Dade County. Coupled with the economic benefits, are environmental and aesthetic advantages. A Farmer’s land, in addition to producing crops, also acts as open space that allows for water recharge areas and wildlife habitat, providing a benefit to all residents of Miami-Dade County. more>>
Redland Raised Promotion of Local Produce
Miami-Dade County and Publix Super Markets are joining forces to promote fresh local produce in more than 1,000 Publix locations. The announcement will take place at the Publix located at 7805 SW 40th Street, on Thursday, October 29, 2009 beginning at 10:00 a.m. Locally grown produce including green beans, yellow squash, zucchini, boniato, okra and avocados will be on display. The local branding initiative, Redland Raised, has been created by Miami-Dade County Agricultural Manager's Office, in conjunction with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, to promote a "buy local" program throughout the County and the State of Florida. The brand will be in line with the Fresh from Florida brand, of which the majority of local growers and packers are members. Media Advisory
Clean Diesel Repower Rebate Program for Local Farmers
Miami-Dade County was awarded funds under the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009 National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program. This award will establish a rebate program for the purpose of repowering agriculture irrigation pump sets. The new engines will substantially reduce diesel emissions into the air and increase fuel efficiency. For more information please contact Agricultural Manager Charles LaPradd at 305-971-5091. Rebate Program Requirements and Checklist
Laurel Wilt Disease Confirmed on Avocado Sample from Homestead, Florida
Laurel wilt is a destructive disease of redbay, avocado and other trees in the laurel family (Lauraceae). The disease is caused by a fungus (Raffaelea lauricola) that infects the sapwood of host trees, restricting the flow of water, causing the leaves to wilt and the trees to die. The public can help prevent the spread of the redbay ambrosia beetle and laurel wilt by following these simple suggestions:
Become familiar with the signs of laurel wilt disease and redbay ambrosia beetle, and be on the lookout for evidence of the pest/disease on your trees.
Do not transport host trees (redbay, swamp bay, avocado, sassafras, pondspice, pondberry and others in the Lauraceae family) unless purchased from a registered nursery.
If you suspect your trees may be infected with laurel wilt or you think you have found a redbay ambrosia beetle, please contact the USDA Division of Plant Industry helpline at 888-397-1517.
Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) Program
Miami-Dade County's agricultural lands are a unique and economically important resource. On September 20, 2007, the Board of County Commissioners adopted a resolution creating the County’s Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) Program. The PDR Program implements the will of Miami-Dade County voters by utilizing General Obligation Bond funds to preserve agricultural land. This program serves as one mechanism for farmland preservation by providing the County with the ability to purchase residential development rights from willing property owners, ensuring that the related properties remain undeveloped and available for agricultural uses. Your property may qualify for this Program. If you are interested in participating in the PDR Program, please complete the PDR Pre-Application Information Sheet. You may submit the sheet via fax at (305) 971-5051, or via mail at Miami-Dade County PDR program, Attn: Agricultural Manager, South Dade Government Center, 10710 SW 211 St., Suite 109, Miami, FL 33189. For further information, please see the PDR Fact Sheet or call the office of the Agricultural Manager at (305) 971-5091.
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