Florida Updates BMPs to Strengthen Agriculture and Conservation

For Florida agricultural producers, a new round of information linked to water quality and agricultural sustainability just got posted from state. Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson has announced the completion of major updates to nine agricultural Best Management Practices (BMP) manuals—the first comprehensive revisions in nearly 20 years—along with a brand-new manual for small farms and specialty livestock.

BMPs are Florida’s science-backed strategies for reducing nutrient runoff, conserving water, and protecting natural resources while keeping farms productive and profitable. These updates, developed in partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the University of Florida, and industry leaders, ensure that producers have the latest, most effective tools at their fingertips.

Industry leaders from the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Florida Citrus Mutual, and others are applauding the move, calling the updates practical and essential for balancing agriculture with conservation. Simpson reinforced that Florida’s farmers and ranchers are stewards of the land, and these BMPs will help them continue that legacy for years to come.

For more details and access to the updated manuals, visit AgInfo.net for a link to the materials discussed.