BELLE GLADE, Fla. (AgPR) — Women around the state who work in agriculture came together Dec. 5 for Florida Agri-Women’s first farm tour as an initiative to educate on the issues and visit farming operations.
The goal of Florida Agri-Women (FAW) is to work together as a collective voice to promote the industry and keep the future of Florida agriculture sustainable. The one-day educational tour stopped at various farms in the Everglades Agricultural Area in South Florida to see some of the state’s crops, learn from growers and researchers, and network with other women in agriculture.
FAW members and guests heard from Dr. Gregg Nuessly with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences on the research that continues to shape the Florida industry before visiting a lettuce field and a sugar mill. Some saw Lake Okeechobee, Florida’s largest freshwater lake, for the first time.
“We have an important story to tell,” said FAW President Ruth Jensen. “Those who work in agriculture have seen firsthand the hard work put into producing food for the country. Our women’s group is important because we keep each other informed as issues arise and policies are being made.”
Attendees also had a chance to interact with leading producers in the area: Marie Bedner, Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market; David Goodlett, Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative; Daniel Cavazos, Florida Crystals Corp.; and Stephen, Ethan and Myles Basore, TKM Bengard.
About Florida Agri-Women
Florida Agri-Women is an affiliate of American Agri-Women, the nation’s largest coalition of farm, ranch and agribusiness women united to communicate with one another and with other consumers to promote agriculture. AAW members have been advocating for agriculture since 1974. To learn more about Florida Agri-Women or join visit Facebook.com/FloridaAgriWomen or contact Ruth Jensen at msjensen@comcast.net or 805-264-4476.
–Florida Agri-Women via AgPR.com – the news release distribution service for agriculture