Growing Forward: Alabama and Florida Boost Southern Agriculture
This week, two stories highlight how southern agriculture continues to grow stronger through innovation and preservation.
In Alabama, Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate and the Department of Agriculture and Industries presented a $165,000 check to Extreme Green Farms through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program. The family-owned hydroponic farm in Auburn will use the funds to expand storage and improve delivery of fresh lettuce across the state. Commissioner Pate said, “Supporting farms like Extreme Green Farms is critical to strengthening Alabama’s local food system.”
Founded by Ralf and Missy du Toit, the farm produces more than 11,000 heads of lettuce weekly for Alabama schools. Ralf du Toit said the grant, “created an immediate and lasting impact for our farm and Alabama citizens.”
Meanwhile, in Florida, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson announced the permanent preservation of more than 2,200 acres of working agricultural land at Kip Whaley Ranch in Madison County through the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. Cattle and timber production are the main uses of the property, with pasture, planted timber, and forested wetlands. Established in 2001, the program recognizes that working agricultural lands are vital to Florida’s economic future.
