Florida Farmer of the Year and Turkey Industry Recovers
From the Western Ag Network, I’m Bob Larson with your Agribusiness Update.
**Dr. Hal Phillips of Levy County has been named Florida Farm Bureau’s 2027 Florida Farmer of the Year.
www.morningagclips.com reports that was announced at Florida Farm Bureau’s 85th Annual Meeting on Oct. 30 in Daytona Beach.
Phillips will serve as an ambassador for Florida agriculture, promoting farming and ranching’s contributions to local communities and the state’s economy.
Phillips is a lifelong cattleman, veterinarian and agricultural leader from Morriston.
www.morningagclips.com/levy-county-rancher-named-florida-farmer-of-the-year/
**The U.S. turkey industry is recovering, with turkeys raised and production increasing for the first time since disease-related losses reduced supplies.
American Farm Bureau Economist, Bernt Nelson reports stronger domestic consumption, growing exports and lower cold storage inventories have improved returns for growers.
Disease continues to challenge turkey growers, impacting flock performance and biosecurity risks.
Higher feed costs and expanding turkey production could create headwinds for turkey growers in 2027.
**The USDA is awarding more than $32 million to help farmers develop local markets and connect consumers with domestically produced food.
The Farmers Market Promotion Program will distribute $13.8 million to 45 projects in 26 states and territories.
Another $13.8 million will support 46 projects focused on food processing, distribution, storage and marketing.
Eight regional partnerships will share $4.6 million to help connect ag producers with schools, hospitals and other institutions.
