Time has influenced perspectives within the Florida citrus industry, particularly in the year since Hurricane Milton. According to Steve Johnson, Chairman of the Florida Citrus Commission, responses from those involved in the sector vary. Some express surprise at how much has occurred since the hurricane, while others are struck by how quickly a year has passed. Regardless of these differing viewpoints, Johnson emphasized that collaborative efforts over recent months have provided positive momentum for the industry as it enters a new season.
Johnson noted that the Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC) has kept pace with industry developments. He highlighted recent initiatives such as a partnership between Florida Orange Juice and the Tampa Bay Lightning. “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,” Johnson said.
He encouraged stakeholders to attend the upcoming Florida Citrus Commission meeting scheduled for Wednesday, October 22 at 9:00 a.m., which will take place at FDOC’s headquarters in Bartow.
Steve Johnson serves as Chairman of the Florida Citrus Commission and is also owner and general manager of Johnson Harvesting, Inc., based in Wauchula, Florida.
