Cooler Temperatures Sweeten Louisiana Citrus

December 29, 2014 Johnny Morgan, LSU AgCenter

Citrus fruit are becoming sweeter and juicier with cooler temperatures, according to LSU AgCenter agent Barton Joffrion in Terrebonne Parish.

Alsum Farms & Produce Debuts Microwave-Ready Gold & Red Potatoes

December 23, 2014 Alsum Farms & Produce

Alsum Farms & Produce Inc. introduces new 24 oz. Microwave-Ready Gold and Red Potatoes to bring fresh, convenient potato solutions to the time-starved consumer.

New ‘Fresh From Florida’ Billboards Promote Strawberries, More

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has launched a new “Fresh From Florida” marketing campaign with billboard ads across the state that feature fresh Florida produce.

What Makes A Palisade Peach So Special?

For the December issue of 5280, deputy editor Lindsey Koehler spent a few days on the Western Slope in the town of Palisade reporting "Fruits Of Their Labor." The piece looks at one particularly iconic aspect of Colorado's $41 billion a year agriculture industry: Palisade peaches.

USDA Marketing Orders Help Industries Climb To New Heights

December 23, 2014 Mike Durando, USDA Blog

Every successful business must have a solid plan to successfully take it from the initial startup phase all the way through its push to expand its operations after the business matures. The same can be said for an industry looking to reach new heights in its lifecycle. A concerted emphasis must be placed on strengthening research, product development, and marketing efforts. To help out on this front, the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) oversees 28 fruit and vegetable marketing order boards and committees. These entities develop regulations that moderate the flow of high quality produce, benefitting growers, handlers, and consumers. These groups also create research, marketing, and promotional campaigns that help expand the reach of the industry’s products.