Florida Agriculture

Organizers believe Sunday's event broke all attendance records.

The event has grown into a massive showcase for the region's independent small farmers and their produce.

The bill makes it easier to develop some farmland already surrounded by growth. Supporters cite housing needs and property rights. Critics warn of weaker local control.

By comparison, category 4 Hurricane Ian, which hit Southwest Florida in September 2022, left about $1.07 billion in damages to the state's agricultural industry.

The Florida Senate dropped "veggie disparagement" language from a sweeping agriculture bill after concerns it could suppress criticism of the industry.

Growers say Florida produces about 15% of the country's strawberries grown during the winter, but some of that share could be eaten up by foreign imports.

Some celebrated strains of the venerable blossom have originated in the Tallahassee area.

The number of beekeepers doubled in Florida over the last decade. The vast majority of them are backyard beekeepers.

Attorney General James Uthmeier announced a filing to reclassify xylazine under state law to ensure the veterinary and agriculture industries can access it for animal care.

Since 1949, the yearly festival has celebrated what used to be Jefferson County's most prominent produce.