AGP Executive Report

Egg Price-Fixing Fallout: The DOJ and 17 states reached a settlement with major egg producers Cal-Maine, Versova and Hickman’s Egg Ranch over alleged collusion to inflate egg price quotes from 2022 to 2025; the deal totals $3.3 million and 53 million donated eggs, with no wrongdoing admitted. Holiday Grocery Shock: A new American Farm Bureau survey puts a classic Fourth of July cookout for 10 at $73.82—up 4%—as families feel inflation in staples like meat, strawberries, lemonade and sides. Water for Farms Under Pressure: Tampa Bay area water restrictions were extended through Oct. 1, keeping most homeowners to once-a-week watering (up to 4 hours) as reservoirs stay below normal—an issue that can ripple to agricultural operations. UF/IFAS Extension on the Ground: A feature spotlights UF/IFAS Extension’s Alachua County work, showing how research and guidance support local dairy and farm decisions from forage planting to invasive weed management. Screwworm Watch: USDA updates on New World screwworm cases keep attention on livestock risk and the ongoing push to prevent outbreaks. Farmland Conservation Push: Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson touts a record $425 million Rural and Family Lands Protection Program investment aimed at permanently protecting another 100,000 acres.

Citrus & Pesticide Pressure: Florida citrus growers are bracing for long-term risk as rising costs and disease threats like HLB (citrus greening) squeeze margins, while a Santa Rosa County aerial herbicide case ended with FDACS confirming pesticide drift and seeking a $20,100 penalty. Food Safety & Health: A UCLA-linked study says chlorpyrifos exposure is tied to a more than 2.5x higher Parkinson’s risk, pointing to a specific mechanism affecting brain cleanup. Trade Watch: Farm groups are pushing to keep USMCA alive as the U.S. moves toward non-renewal, with Mexico and Canada still central to U.S. ag exports. Extension & Grower Support: UF/IFAS Extension Volusia County announced free upcoming programs, including a saw palmetto meeting focused on permitting and crop protection. Recreation Safety: After a fatal alligator attack near Oviedo, officials reiterated summer water safety and noted increased gator activity during mating season. Local Water & Coastal Repair: Lee County approved $3.9M for Hurricane Ian repairs at Bowditch Point Park and other coastal amenities. Beekeeping Spotlight: Local Hive highlighted Florida beekeepers behind its 100% U.S. honey blends for America’s 250th.

Egg Price-Fixing Settlement: The DOJ and 17 states reached agreements with major egg producers Cal-Maine Foods, Versova, and Hickman’s Egg Ranch, alleging they coordinated bids to inflate Urner Barry egg price quotes from 2022–2025; the deals total $3.3M and 53 million donated eggs, with no company admitting wrongdoing. Citrus Recovery Funding: Florida announced a $196M investment to support citrus industry recovery. Power-Line Herbicide Scrutiny: Florida’s agriculture officials and lawmakers are looking into FP&L’s contractor after herbicide drift allegedly killed or harmed farm animals and vegetation in Santa Rosa County; FP&L says it paused aerial spraying while reviewing findings. Farm Tech in Sugar: Florida Trend highlights U.S. Sugar’s autonomous tractor rollout in the cane fields near Clewiston, with remote monitoring replacing drivers. Screwworm Readiness: The University of Arizona received $3.74M to prepare for a New World screwworm outbreak—part of a broader USDA push to detect and respond fast. Local Water & Wildlife: Pine Island residents debated Jug Creek Marina expansion and rezoning, while sea turtle lighting concerns and heat risks are also in the mix for Florida’s summer ag and outdoor plans.

Fire safety & fireworks: Collier County lifted its months-long burn ban just in time for Fourth of July, but officials stressed fireworks rules still vary by location; meanwhile, four other counties (Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, Sarasota) kept burn bans in place due to drought, banning open fires and sparklers. Pesticide drift enforcement: Florida regulators hit an FPL transmission-line contractor with the maximum $20,000 penalty after aerial herbicide drift complaints in East Milton. Egg market crackdown: The DOJ and 17 states reached settlements with major egg producers over alleged price-fixing, with Cal-Maine, Versova and Hickman’s Egg Ranch facing $3.3M in penalties and 53 million donated eggs. Trade pressure on Florida growers: The U.S. International Trade Commission upheld anti-dumping tariffs on Mexican tomatoes, a win for domestic producers facing low-price imports. Conservation & aquaculture tech: FAU Harbor Branch’s solar-powered mobile lab in the Bahamas produced the first queen conch hatch, supporting restoration of seagrass ecosystems. Local food access: Indian River County schools expanded free meals for eligible students under the federal Provision 2 program.

Egg Price-Fixing Fallout: The DOJ and 17 states reached settlements with Cal-Maine Foods, Versova and Hickman’s Egg Ranch over alleged collusion to inflate egg price benchmarks from 2022 to 2025; the companies deny wrongdoing but will pay $3.3 million and donate 53 million eggs to food banks and nonprofits across participating states, including Florida. Florida Citrus & Produce Pressure: “Tomatoflation” is hitting grocery shelves as severe winter freezes cut Florida’s fresh tomato output hard, with the state’s tomato industry still working through losses and production rebounds while Mexico’s supply also took a hit. Local Housing vs. Farmland: Sarasota County is being sued after it tried to block Live Local Act projects in rural areas, a fight that could decide how far affordable-housing rules reshape agricultural and open-use land. Pest & Vet Capacity: Florida’s FY budget coverage highlights continued state wins tied to agriculture priorities, including support aimed at keeping the workforce and animal-health pipeline strong. Ag Policy Watch: A Florida “Farm Bill” package taking effect includes changes that reach beyond farms, including rules affecting equipment use and conservation land policies.

Alligator Safety in Focus: A 31-year-old woman died after a Central Florida alligator attack in the Econlockhatchee River, following a week of multiple bites and rescues that have FWC officials capturing and euthanizing suspected animals. Egg Market Oversight: The DOJ and 17 states reached a settlement with major egg producers over alleged coordinated price manipulation, with penalties and egg donations tied to ending benchmark quote coordination. Fertilizer Cost Pressure: Farm groups are flagging rising fertilizer costs, farm payment uncertainty, and screwworm response needs as producers weigh next season’s risk. Florida Law Changes July 1: Roughly 140 new Florida measures take effect Wednesday, including rules affecting restaurants’ mandatory “operations charges,” plus updates tied to data centers and local governance. Nursery & Landscape Recognition: Kathy Mears, a long-time agriculture insider, received FNGLA’s Friend of the Industry award for decades of behind-the-scenes support for Florida’s green industries. Local Agriculture Politics: Naples farmer Alfie Oakes backed Michael Carbonara in Florida’s 22nd Congressional District GOP primary, highlighting the role of farm businesses in community leadership. Marine Conservation Note: FWC released rare whale shark video off Florida’s coast, underscoring endangered-species monitoring and threats like vessel strikes and fishing gear entanglement. Panhandle Watermelon Tradition: The 70th Panhandle Watermelon Festival drew crowds for parades, auctions, and family events at the Washington County Agricultural Center.

Alligator Safety in Central Florida: FWC says a 31-year-old Orlando woman died after an alligator attack in the Econlockhatchee River near the Barr Street Trailhead; officials captured two gators (12- and 13-foot) and are using DNA testing to determine which one bit her, while investigators say low water and mating-season territorial behavior may be factors. Wildlife Response & Public Risk: The same week also brought a child bitten while fishing at Nelson Fish Camp in Marion County and an earlier Rainbow River attack, with officials trapping and removing the animals involved. Recreational Fishing & Conservation: The Bay Point Billfish Open at Point South Marina reported a record catch-and-release run—193 billfish released with just one billfish killed—highlighting continued interest in sustainable tournament practices. State Budget Watch (Education): Gov. DeSantis signed Florida’s FY 2026-27 budget with line-item vetoes, including $2.5 million for Santa Fe College’s M Building renovation and a fabrication lab aimed at hands-on training. Local Development: Sebastian Pines inched forward as City Council approved zoning steps for the 204.42-acre project, capping at 502 dwelling units.

Screwworm Watch: The U.S. and Mexico opened a sterile fly production plant in southern Mexico to fight New World screwworm, with USDA reporting 27 total U.S. cases and active detections in Texas; officials say production ramps quickly to help suppress outbreaks. Wildlife Safety in Florida: Florida is dealing with a cluster of alligator incidents, including a fatal Econlockhatchee River attack on June 28 and a separate child bite reported in Marion County—FWC is urging people to keep distance and report “nuisance” alligators that associate with people. Local Food & Farming Culture: A Florida-focused feature highlights the growing use of beef tallow in restaurants and local food businesses, reflecting renewed interest in traditional fats for cooking. Policy & Housing: Gov. DeSantis signed the updated Live Local Act, expanding affordable housing preemptions while excluding farms and farm operations from eligible land-use categories. Workplace Risk: A Florida workforce roundup points to common injury patterns—especially overexertion and musculoskeletal strain—across construction, hospitality, agriculture, healthcare, and logistics.

Alligator Safety in Central Florida: FWC reports a deadly alligator attack in Seminole County: a 31-year-old woman died after being bitten while swimming in the Econlockhatchee River near Geneva. Local Wildlife Response: Authorities are still tracking the alligator, while a separate Marion County incident saw an 8-foot-7-inch alligator bite a child’s hand at Nelson’s Fish Camp; that animal was captured and euthanized. More Bites, Same Warning: FWC says serious injuries are rare, but it’s urging people to keep distance, never feed gators, and use designated swimming areas—especially during mating season when gators are more active. Water District Election Fight (SWFL): A Bonita Springs water control district election is under dispute after conflicting tallies and delayed public records raised questions about control of the San Carlos Estates Water Control District. UF/IFAS Pest Myth-Busting: UF/IFAS released guidance clarifying that “hybrid super termites” aren’t a bigger threat than existing invasive termites—just a new scientific category. Pollinator Push for Florida Crops: Pollinator Palooza at First Magnitude Brewing highlighted how insect pollination supports Florida specialty crops like blueberries, watermelon, and squash.

Alligator Safety in Central Florida: FWC confirmed two alligator bite incidents within a week: a juvenile bitten on the hand while fishing at Nelson’s Fish Camp in Umatilla (an 8’7” alligator was later killed by an officer), and a prior Rainbow Springs State Park snorkeler attack in Marion County that also led to removal of an 8-foot alligator and reopening of the area. Fishing Rules Upended: A federal injunction derailed a proposed exempted fishing permit pilot for recreational red snapper targeting in federal waters, leaving anglers waiting as even Florida’s own red snapper season was postponed. Screwworm Preparedness: Florida adopted emergency rules to block New World screwworm spread after a Texas case, tightening animal import certification and inspections for warm-blooded livestock. Kids Fishing in the Keys: The Florida Keys Fishing Guides Association hosted a free Kids Fishing Expo in Islamorada with hands-on casting, knot-tying, and lessons on protecting local waters. Water Stress for Anglers: Drought and low water levels are hurting Central Florida fishing access, with some charter operators facing reduced routes and invasive hydrilla taking over waterways. Coffee with a Florida Market Angle: Tampa’s Java Planet expanded its shade-grown, low-acid organic coffee line aimed at consumers seeking gentler options.

Water & Drought Impact: A Leesburg-area fishing charter is being squeezed by severe drought and low creek levels, with hydrilla taking over and the indefinite closure of Burrell Lock cutting off access to reliable spots. AI & Water Use: A new push to raise public awareness about how AI data centers could strain Florida’s water supply is tied to the Floridan Aquifer’s role in drinking water and land stability. Livestock Health: Mexico and the U.S. inaugurated a $61M sterile-fly factory in Chiapas to fight the New World screwworm, with Florida’s 2016 deer outbreak cited and Texas reporting a recent case. Aquaculture/Soil Innovation: UF researchers in Wimauma are testing biochar, composted biosolids, and cover crops as alternatives to synthetic fertilizers for sandy soils. Wildlife Protection: A Marco Island osprey was freed from fishing line entanglement after weeks of rehab and released back into the wild. Food Safety: Reser’s Fine Foods recalled mislabeled “pasta salad” that may actually be chicken salad with undeclared egg and milk allergens, including distribution into Florida. Policy Watch: Florida lawmakers passed a $114.5B budget, including $196M for beleaguered citrus.

Wildfire Watch: Florida leaders are weighing whether to curb fireworks as drought and above-average wildfire risk threaten more than 141,000 acres already burned statewide, with Cabinet members urging caution during the 250th birthday holiday. Sea Turtle Conservation: St. Pete Beach loggerhead nesting is down sharply this season (about 50% fewer nests), with Sea Turtle Trackers pointing to factors like sand conditions, beach lighting, and nighttime activity. Aquaculture & Fisheries: Florida wildlife officials issued an order closing recreational harvest of gag grouper in Atlantic state waters starting Aug. 2, a move aimed at protecting the stock. Food Safety: Reser’s Fine Foods recalled 5,300 pounds of ready-to-eat pasta salad in seven states, warning of undeclared allergens (egg and milk) that could cause serious health effects. Agribusiness & Disaster Aid: The SBA opened low-interest disaster loans for drought-hit small businesses and agricultural cooperatives in parts of Florida, while noting agricultural producers and farmers are generally not eligible (except aquaculture). Local Agriculture Infrastructure: Sarasota County Fairgrounds is moving closer to a new agricultural barn complex after receiving $5 million in state construction funding to support 4-H and FFA needs.

New World screwworm threat: USDA says the flesh-eating screwworm fly is back in the U.S., with five reported cases so far (including the first outside Texas in a New Mexico dog), raising alarms for cattle and ranchers as officials race to eradicate it. State policy on July 1: Florida’s new law slate kicks in July 1, including rules for major data centers and renaming roads/airport tied to Trump and Charlie Kirk, while DeSantis vetoed three bills including an e-bike measure. Fireworks and farm safety: Florida will not impose a statewide fireworks ban for July 4, but Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and the Florida Forest Service urge “responsible” use as drought-linked wildfires have burned 176,028 acres statewide; some counties still have burn bans. Fishing rules under pressure: A court order halted what could have been the longest red snapper season, reflecting ongoing fights over federal fisheries deregulation. Local outdoor life: Wellen Park opened three new trails totaling 6+ miles, adding walking, cycling, and fishing access for residents.

Red Snapper Court Fight: A federal judge blocked what would have been Florida’s longest red snapper season, leaving recreational anglers like a St. Augustine charter customer unable to keep their catch after required release procedures—another sign of how federal rule changes are colliding with fisheries management. SNAP Oversight: USDA says Florida’s SNAP payment error rate fell to 12.97% in 2025, still above the 10% threshold and triggering a potential nearly $1 billion penalty and a corrective action plan. Farm Labor Watch: H-2A guest-worker certifications are up nationally, and Florida remains the top state overall, with labor demand still tightly tied to peak harvest timing. Wildlife & Fishing Impacts: An osprey rescue in Marco Island highlighted how fishing line can seriously injure birds, while Audubon is asking the public to help track roseate spoonbills across Florida Bay. Holiday Fire Risk: Eight Florida counties remain under burn bans as July 4 approaches, with no open fires or fireworks allowed in those areas. Cost Pressure for Growers: Higher fertilizer and fuel prices tied to the Iran war are squeezing farmers’ ability to buy inputs.

New World screwworm threat: USDA says it’s backing the fight as the parasite spreads; after detections in Texas and New Mexico, states are tightening animal travel rules from “infested zones,” raising the risk that pet owners get blindsided when flying with animals. Florida freeze recovery: The White House has requested $87.6B in supplemental aid, including $1.1B for Florida producers still recovering from the historic winter freeze, with Florida Farm Bureau and citrus groups urging Congress to move fast. Farm bill momentum (dairy): A Senate farm bill discussion draft is pushing dairy policy forward, with Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative highlighting support for dairy indemnity and forward pricing changes. Input-cost pressure: Trump is also seeking additional farm aid tied to high fuel and fertilizer costs, aiming to help growers through spring planting. Drought and water limits: Charlotte County reports drought impacts like a dried canal and struggling tomato crops, while Collier County keeps a July 4 fireworks burn ban in place due to dry conditions. Food safety: Reser’s Fine Foods recalled ready-to-eat pasta salad over misbranding and undeclared allergens shipped to Florida. Coastal wildlife: Gulfarium released rehabilitated sea turtles back into the Gulf.

Farm Aid Push: President Trump asked Congress for $87.6B in supplemental funding, including $10B in temporary help for 2026 row and specialty crops and $1.1B for Florida producers hit by winter storms. Water & Power Pressure from AI: Florida counties and cities are pausing or considering pauses on AI data center construction over concerns about massive water and electricity demands, with some adopting one-year moratoriums. Local Food Security in the Glades: The Salvation Army launched a mobile outreach in Belle Glade, serving 200+ people with hot meals, groceries, utility bill aid, and referrals. Seafood Management: South Atlantic states canceled extended recreational red snapper seasons after a lawsuit, aiming to shift to fall dates instead. Public Health Watch: Florida reported a new Vibrio vulnificus case in Miami-Dade, bringing 2026 totals to nine, a reminder to protect against warm-water and raw-shellfish exposure. Drought Update: Florida’s drought eased slightly, with no exceptional drought statewide for the first time in months, though many areas remain dry and under restrictions.