New AI-Drone Research in Florida and Trump Backs Year-Round E15
From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson with your Agribusiness Update.
**University of Florida scientists launched a new, grant-funded research project using artificial intelligence and drone technology to help Florida celery growers detect a damaging fungal disease before symptoms are visible.
This breakthrough could save crops, cut costs and reduce fungicide use.
With support from two grants, the project targets early blight, a fast-spreading disease that quickly turns healthy celery fields into costly losses.
Celery is a high-value winter crop in Florida.
**President Trump is calling on Congress to resolve differences over year-round sales of E15 fuel and to finalize an agreement that would be a boon for struggling corn farmers.
Politico’s Grace Yarrow reports the president's comments put the White House squarely on the side of ethanol proponents in the battle among Republicans and agriculture and biofuels groups over legislation to expand markets for corn farmers but would irritate some oil companies and refiners.
www.agrimarketing.com/s/156053
**Specialty crop growers are voicing renewed concerns about labor availability as spring planting and harvest seasons approach.
According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, labor shortages remain one of the top challenges for fruit and vegetable producers, particularly in labor-intensive crops.
USDA surveys show farm labor costs continuing to rise, squeezing already thin margins.
Farm organizations are urging Congress to advance agricultural labor reforms, warning that prolonged instability could shift production overseas.
