The article discusses the growing pressures on Florida’s citrus industry, particularly in Polk County, which is experiencing rapid population growth and is now home to more citrus than any other county in the state. As urban development expands into traditional orange groves, many citrus growers are feeling the impact of declining orange juice consumption and challenges like citrus greening disease, hurricanes, and severe weather.
Trevor Murphy, a third-generation grower, notices a shift towards housing development in his area, indicating that orange production is at risk of being replaced by residential neighborhoods. The citrus industry has faced a significant decline, with production dropping by 90% over the past 20 years due to a combination of these pressures. Major growers like Alico Inc. are planning to reduce their citrus acreage, further straining juice processors like Tropicana.
Despite the challenges, some growers, including Murphy, are pursuing innovative solutions to combat citrus greening, such as developing genetically modified trees that are resistant to pests and diseases. The article highlights the need for ongoing research and collaboration among growers, processors, and the scientific community to revitalize the struggling industry, which has immense economic implications for Florida.
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