SolutionsForYourLifecombranding.ifas.ufl.edu/media/brandingifasufledu/100... · market their bulls at a central location using best-known management techniques, ... • Irrigation

Critical Issue• Youth participation in outdoor activities is in decline.• In a recent poll, 88% of children reported using a computer almost every day, while

only 11% of children reported visiting a local park or natural area almost every day.• Lack of outdoor activity has been linked with obesity, lack of socialization, and

attention disorders in youth.

UF/IFAS SolutionSince 1928, Florida 4-H camps have been helping Florida’s youth reconnect with nature and build interpersonal relationships in a residential camp setting. 4-H camping provides a fun, safe learning environment where youth focus on belonging to a community, finding their independence, mastering new skills and valuing service to others.

• Camp Timpoochee• Camp Cherry Lake

• Camp Ocala• Camp Cloverleaf

• Operation Military Kids Summer Camps

Florida 4-H Camping is currently working with the Initiative 7 Science Work Group to implement science-based curricula at camps. 4-H focuses on an experiential (hands-on learning) approach to the fundamentals of inquiry-based science, using fun problem-solving projects that help youth develop a passion for STEM-related fields.

Successes • In 2013, nearly 3,000 youth participated in Florida 4-H Camps.• These youth reported gains in self-confidence, independence, and an awareness of

the natural world around them. They also reported gaining proficiency in outdoor skills, nature education, shooting sports and kayaking.

• 250 adult and youth volunteers participated in 4-H camps.

Future OutlookOver the next 5 years, Florida 4-H Camping looks to grow our residential camping programs to reach 4,000 youth during the course of a summer.

RELATED MAJORS• Agricultural Education

and Communication• Animal Sciences

• Education• Family, Youth and

Community Sciences

• Recreation, Parks and Tourism

UF/IFAS EXTENSION

Solutions for the Next 100 Years

FLORIDA 4-H CAMPING

SolutionsForYourLife.comA century of serving florida

100Florida EXtension

Critical Issue2012 research conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers lists the top 3 skills employers look for when hiring new graduates:

1. Ability to work in a team2. Ability to make decisions and solve problems3. Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work

UF/IFAS SolutionFlorida 4-H’s Citizenship & Leadership Development program prepares youth to be well-informed, socially confident citizens who are actively engaged in their communities and the world. Just a few of 4-H’s fun and thought-provoking experiences include:

• 4-H Legislature: a five-day learning laboratory in state government.• 4-H University: a chance to explore the UF campus, interact with faculty and make

new friends.• 4-H Day at the Capitol: an opportunity to meet lawmakers and observe state

government at work.

Successes• More than 220,000 youth participate in the IFAS Extension 4-H Youth Development

Program in counties throughout the state.• According to the 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development conducted by Tufts

University, young people in 4-H report better grades, higher levels of academic competence, and an elevated level of engagement at school.

Future Outlook Long-term participation in 4-H Citizenship projects will result in youth:• Becoming positive contributing citizens who make an impact on their

communities in meaningful ways.• Increasing their engagement in civic issues.• Deepening historic and cultural understanding of their experiences and

community issues.


and Communication• Business

Administration

• Education• Food and Resource

Economics• Journalism

• Political Science• Public Relations

UF/IFAS EXTENSION


4-H CITIZENSHIP & LEADERSHIP



Critical IssueToday’s youth face a number of issues concerning nutrition and physical fitness, substance abuse, safety and social and emotional wellness.• There is a significant decrease in the amount of physical activity between

elementary school and high school students, especially for girls.• About 1/3 of children and youth are overweight, with half of them being obese.

Awareness of dietary quality, having access to healthy foods, and making smart food choices are necessary to improve nutritional health of youth and their families.

• For children ages 5-14, accidents were the leading cause of death in 2008.• In 2008, about 15.2 million Americans 12 years or older have taken a prescription

pain killer, tranquilizer, stimulant or sedative for a non-medical purpose. • 11% of alcohol in the U.S. is consumed by youth ages 12-20.

UF/IFAS SolutionHealthy Living is a cornerstone of Florida 4-H, and is even part of our pledge: “I pledge my health to better living.” 4-H believes that while healthy living habits begin in the context of families and communities, we strive to equip youth with healthy living knowledge and skills that will prepare them physically, emotionally and socially to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Florida 4-H offers youth a wide choice of projects promoting healthy lifestyles, including basic and sports nutrition, food preparation, health science and safety.

Successes • In 2012, more than 19,000 youth and adult volunteers helped Florida 4-H reach

222,000 youth.• 4-H youth completed over 30,000 Healthy Lifestyles projects.

Young people in 4-H are:• 2.3 times more likely to exercise and be physically active.• 2.4 times more likely to delay sexual intercourse by grade 11.• Have had significantly lower drug, alcohol, and cigarette use than peers.

Future OutlookWith help from Florida 4-H, young people will take more initiative in their own health decisions and make wise choices in respect to healthy eating, physical fitness, and safe relationships.

RELATED MAJORS• Applied Physiology and

Kinesiology• Dietetics

• Family, Youth and Community Sciences

• Food Science

• Health, Education and Behavior

• Nutritional Sciences

UF/IFAS EXTENSION


FLORIDA 4-H HEALTHY LIVING



Critical Issue• Only 20% of Florida’s graduates earn degrees in science and engineering.• Science literacy is as a critically low level among schoolchildren in the U.S.• U.S. is at risk of losing its position in the global marketplace unless we improve

science literacy among today’s youth.

UF/IFAS Solution4-H Science programs combine experiential learning and strong youth-adult partnerships to help students, parents and schools meet National Science and Technology Education Standards. In 4-H, youth can choose from projects in many areas of science, including• Agricultural Science• Aerospace• Marine Science

• Robotics • Environmental Science• Computer technology

Successes • Over 70,000 4-H youth in Florida have enrolled in projects in the biological,

environmental, animal and plant sciences, as well as physical science, engineering and technology.

• 4-H partners with companies like Samsung and Lockeed Martin to provide mentorships and scholarships in STEM fields for underrepresented youth.

• More than 80% of 4-H youth say they intend to finish college or pursue post-baccalaureate education.

• 59% of 4-H youth reported that they would like a job related to science.

Future OutlookThe 4-H Science Initiative will continue address Florida’s critical need for more scientists and engineers by engaging 150,000 new youth in science programs by 2016.

RELATED MAJORS• Animal Sciences• Marine Sciences• Wildlife Ecology and

Conservation• Engineering• Soil and Water Science

• Entomology and Nematology

• Microbiology and Cell Science

• Food Science• Plant Science

• Biology• Botany• Zoology• Physics• Geology

UF/IFAS EXTENSION


4-H SCIENCE



Critical IssueBeef cattle producers need timely and accurate information to make nutritional, reproduction and other management decisions concerning their beef cattle enterprises, such as marketing cull cows, administrating animal health products, avoiding antibiotic residues and performing basic calf management.

UF/IFAS SolutionThe Florida Beef Cattle Short Course (BCSC) delivers excellent management information that positively affects the economic viability of Florida beef cattle enterprises. The Florida Bull Test provides seed stock producers an opportunity to develop and market their bulls at a central location using best-known management techniques, promotes awareness of the latest animal breeding concepts and tools and showcases superior beef cattle genetics in Florida.

The Southeastern Beef Cattle Risk Management Project and Southeast Cattle Advisor deliver timely marketing, management and production information to cattle producers in the southeastern U.S.

Successes • Participants at the Beef Cattle Short Course make management decisions affecting

over 150,000 cows annually. The management and production output of these cows is influenced by the knowledge and insight that owners and managers gain at the BCSC.

• Florida Bull Test: Consignments have increased from less than 50 bulls to greater than 126 bulls in 2013 (the largest test on record). Average price of bulls increased from $1,477 to $3,274.

• The AI Cowculator has been downloaded 1,025 times in 38 states and four countries to assist producers decide whether to utilize artificial insemination or purchase a herd sire.

Future Outlook The need for protein to feed an increasing world population will stimulate innovative and sustainable beef cattle production in Florida. However, external pressures for resources and oversight of production practices will also dictate the ability of the Florida cattleman to produce beef cattle.

RELATED MAJORS• Agricultural Operations

Management• Animal Sciences

• Biology• Food and Resource

Economics

• Food Science• Marketing

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




BEEF CATTLE PROGRAMS

Critical Issue• Floridians currently experience one of the highest divorce rates in the nation. • Florida family fragmentation is linked to chronic diseases, early mortality, school

dropout, substance abuse, incarceration, mental health issues, poverty, abuse, and neglect.

• In 1999, the Florida Legislature enacted the Marriage Preparation and Preservation Act to provide incentives for couples who take marriage preparation classes.

UF/IFAS SolutionBefore You Tie the Knot is a UF/IFAS Extension program that offers constructive guidance to couples as they begin their lives as a married couple. In online and face-to-face workshops, couples learn to:

• Recognize their own needs—and their partner’s

• Parent positively

• Negotiate conflict • Communicate

effectively

• Manage money • Develop and maintain

healthy lifestyles

SuccessesAfter taking the BYTK course, participants surveyed indicated an overall change of:• 74% improvement in confidence in their ability to meet their own needs.• 53% improvement in confidence in their ability to help their partner meet his/

her needs.• 53% improvement in confidence in their ability to parent effectively.• 100% of participants said they will use the BYTK skills to increase happiness and

satisfaction (well-being) in their relationship.

Future Outlook• Before You Tie the Knot to be implemented in all 67 counties in Florida (online

and face-to-face).• More effective communication will lead to lower divorce rates, stronger family

ties, reductions in domestic abuse, greater financial security and increasing emotional and physical health.


and Communication• Education

• Family, Youth and Community Sciences

• Sociology

• Psychology

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




BEFORE YOU TIE THE KNOT

Critical IssueWater quality is an especially important issue in Florida’s urban centers and other areas with intense agricultural, horticultural and industrial land use. Florida Agriculture’s approach to water resource protection has been focused on developing guidelines to teach producers how to manage water, nutrients and pesticides in ways that minimize the impact on the state’s natural resources.

UF/IFAS Solution• UF/IFAS Extension works with the agriculture industry, the Florida Department

of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), water management districts, and others to develop best management practices (BMPs) to address agricultural impacts on water use and quality.

• BMP mini-grant program supports grower BMP demonstrations state-wide.

• Basin teams organize monthly production meetings and field visits.• In-service training promotes the use of water and nutrient conserving tools

and practices.

Successes • Fertilizer nutrient application rates have decreased.• Irrigation water consumption has declined through increased use of water

conserving application methods.• Soil tests continue to increase, resulting in more accurate fertilizer recommendations.• Plant sap testing during the growing season improves supplemental fertilizer

determinations.• Pesticide sprayer calibration improves application efficiency.

Future OutlookGrower BMP programs will increase to avoid more stringent environmental monitoring and may be required as part of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection assessment of water quality.

RELATED MAJORS• Animal Sciences• Agricultural Operations

Management• Entomology and

Nematology

• Environmental Management in Agriculture and Natural Resources

• Plant Science• Political Science• Soil and Water Science

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




AGRICULTURAL BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPs)

Critical Issue• 37% of Floridians live at or below Federal Poverty Guidelines• 25% of Floridians do not have a bank account or savings plan. • Financial mistakes such as credit abuse can have long-lasting impacts on

consumers and the economy.

UF/IFAS SolutionThe Florida Master Money Mentor Program (FMMM) is a county-based volunteer service that provides one-on-one financial guidance, education and support to low-income, rural, veteran and other economically vulnerable populations across the state of Florida. FMMM volunteers assist individuals and families with becoming financially organized by improving their money management behaviors. Many Master Money Mentors also participate in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program in partnership with the IRS and local nonprofits.

Successes • 550 Master Money Mentors have been trained in Florida since February of 2010,

performing 27,000 hours of service and reaching thousands of clients. • In one county, 43% of clients who met with Florida Money Mentor volunteers started

tracking their expenses and developed a plan to reduce their debt and increase financial stability.

• 5 consecutive years of gift funding from Bank of America.• FMMM is expanding into 10 more counties in 2014.• VITA volunteers helped prepare 1,400 tax returns last year, saving Florida

households a total of $350,000.

Future OutlookFinancial literacy and capability will continue to be needed by all Floridians. There is an increasing need for consumers to be financially self-reliant obtain assistance in acquiring and practicing financial management skills. We will continue to expand our efforts to new counties in both FMMM and VITA.

RELATED MAJORS• Accounting• Business

Administration

• Economics• Family, Youth and

Community Sciences

• Finance• Food and Resource

Economics

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




FLORIDA MASTER MONEY MENTORS

Critical Issue• Conservation education is critical to sustaining Florida’s future.• Community partnerships are needed for the development of projects and

programs that will secure our natural resources. • Ecotourism is the most rapidly growing tourist industry worldwide. The economic

output of wildlife viewing activities alone in Florida total more than $2.8 billion per year.

UF/IFAS SolutionThe Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) trains educators to work with the public in promoting awareness, understanding and respect for Florida’s natural world. Florida Master Naturalists are teachers, natural resource managers, environmental consultants, eco-tour guides and other professionals and volunteers who have received comprehensive education courses in Freshwater Wetlands,

Coastal Ecosystems, Upland Habitats and other special topics. FMNP instructors are professional educators from UF/IFAS Extension, Florida Sea Grant, state and federal agencies and other partner organizations.

Successes • Over 9,000 certified Master Naturalists since 2001.• 164,913 volunteer hours (valued at over $3M) performed by FMNP graduates.• 42% of participants received a promotion, pay raise or increased responsibilities

after getting certified.“My training in the Florida Master Naturalist Program has made me a better environmental consultant.”“After completing the 3 FMNP courses, I began volunteering at the park that I was hoping to work at when a job came available. In November ’08, I got the job of assistant park ranger…FMNP helped me get that foot in the door.”

Future OutlookThe Florida Master Naturalist Program continues to grow with new instructors and more graduates. Florida Master Naturalists are contributing to the environment and their local communities by providing unbiased, research-based environmental education and coordinating volunteer projects.


and Communication• Biology• Botany• Environmental Science

• Forest Resources and Conservation

• Natural Resource Conservation

• Plant Science

• Recreation, Parks and Tourism

• Wildlife Ecology and Conservation

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




FLORIDA MASTER NATURALIST PROGRAM (FMNP)

Critical Issue• In Florida, applications for food stamps through the Supplemental Nutrition

Assistance Program (SNAP) have increased by 111% since 2007. • As poverty levels rise, the nutritional and health risks to people of all ages increase. • Poor eating habits in childhood can lead to poor performance in school and

athletics, as well as health problems later in life, including heart disease and osteoporosis (calcium deficiency).

UF/IFAS SolutionThe Family Nutrition Program (FNP) provides nutrition education and obesity prevention programming to SNAP participants and people eligible for SNAP benefits. We use research-based programs that are proven effective at teaching people how to develop healthy eating behaviors and stretch their food dollars. We partner with state and local agencies to promote healthful policies and environments in schools and in communities with limited resources.

Successes• 142,000 Floridians received nutrition education through FNP in 2010-11.• 2.5 million residents were exposed to messaging through communication and events.After participating in FNP programs: • 85% of students in Putnam County increased their nutrition knowledge. • 82% of students in Madison County reported they are willing to try new foods.• 81% of students in Pasco County increased healthful choices in nutrition or physical

activity.• 100% of older adults in Putnam County planned to eat more fruits and vegetables

and increase physical activity.

Future OutlookStudies prove that adequately nourished children:• Are more alert with longer attention spans.• Are more socially interactive. • Explore and learn from their surroundings.

RELATED MAJORS• Applied Physiology and

Kinesiology• Dietetics• Family, Youth and

Community Sciences

• Food Science• Health Education

and Behavior

• Health Science• Nutritional Sciences

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




THE FAMILY NUTRITION PROGRAM

Critical IssueFlorida forests generate over $20 billion annually, but they are under threat of pests, invasive species, urban sprawl, and loss of public interest.

UF/IFAS Solution• Florida Forest Stewardship: Teaches sustainable forestland management practices.• Forest Health Diagnostics: Provides free identification of tree pests and diseases.• Project Learning Tree (PLT): Provides environmental education for teachers and

other educators, parents and community leaders working with youth in grades Pre-K through 12.

• Urban and Community Forestry Program: Helps communities develop wise growth plans to reduce the effects of urban sprawl.

Successes • 648 landowners and natural resource professionals enrolled in Forest

Stewardship programs.• 91% of those attending these programs reported gaining new knowledge about

stewardship topics and 84% reported they will use the information.• Every year, over 200 forest or tree owners and businesses across Florida receive free

identification of tree pests and diseases.• 44,492 youth and adults took part in Project Learning Tree.• Teachers trained in 2013 reported that they will teach PLT activities to over 250,000

students. • The City Council of Tampa unanimously adopted and began implementation of a

strategic plan for urban forest management developed under the leadership of UF/IFAS Extension.

Future OutlookWith YOUR help, invasive pests won’t destroy our forests, wildfires won’t threaten communities, and the growing urban population will learn to connect with the natural world.


and Communication• Agricultural Operations

Management• Environmental

Management in Agriculture and Natural Resources

• Forest Resources and Conservation

• Geomatics• Recreation, Parks

and Tourism

• Sustainability Studies• Wildlife Ecology and

Conservation

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




SCHOOL OF FOREST RESOURCES & CONSERVATION

Critical IssueFlorida is prone to hurricanes, tornados, flooding, wildfires, and other natural disasters that impact homes and communities. Preparing the home, its occupants, and communities for such events can improve the chances of weathering the storm.

UF/IFAS SolutionUF/IFAS Extension is working with homeowners and community leaders across the state to lessen the impact of natural hazards by developing strategies to prepare for the worst, reduce loss and swiftly recover and rebuild after disaster strikes.

Successes• Live Oak, Florida was devastated by flooding from Tropical Storm Debby in 2012.

Since then, UF/IFAS Extension community development programs have helped in recovery efforts by providing residents and community leaders with alternative strategies for rebuilding their community and lessening the impact of future disasters. Citizens of Live Oak are now meeting regularly to move disaster resilience initiatives forward.

• UF/IFAS Extension was a key partner in a statewide collaborative effort to write and publish a practical, research-based book entitled the Homeowner’s Handbook to Prepare for Natural Hazards, which provides best practices to help homeowners prepare for natural disasters. The book was distributed to 5,000 Florida residents, state and local governments and community leaders in time for the 2013 hurricane season and is in its second printing.

Future OutlookPreparing for natural hazards has been an increasingly important part of community planning. Recent studies predict that Florida will be significantly impacted by natural hazards and more extreme events over the coming decades due to climate variability and change. There will be an increasing demand for UF/IFAS Extension to work with citizens and local governments to make our communities more resilient to these impacts.



Management• Building Construction

• Engineering• Environmental Science• Family, Youth and

Community Sciences

• Fire and Emergency Services

• Sustainability and the Built Environment

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




DISASTER RESILIENCE

Critical Issue • Florida is invaded by 1-2 highly destructive invasive pests every month. Often

these pests can detrimentally affect our agricultural production systems that supply food and fiber.

• A balanced approach to pest management is needed to improve crop yields, reduce costs, and contribute to the sustainability of agriculture and the environment.

UF/IFAS SolutionIntegrated Pest Management (IPM) uses all available methods including biological and cultural controls, as well as pesticides, to anticipate and prevent pests from reaching economically damaging levels. IPM involves carefully identifying pests, selecting pest-resistant plants, targeted pesticide treatments, using predator species to control pests, and other practices.

Successes • Every year, UF/IFAS Extension trains around 80,000 certified pesticide applicators in

the use of Integrated Pest Management.• IPM has been proven a safe and effective means of pest control for forestry, field and

greenhouse crops, ornamentals, livestock, fruit crops, home gardens and lawns.• Some of IPM’s outstanding successes include:

◦ Extension training and information that enables Florida citizens and visitors to protect themselves from mosquito-borne diseases. ◦ IPM program for western flower thrips and viruses in tomato and pepper. ◦ Web-based and mobile programs to time disease control applications of copper on citrus and fungicides on strawberries. ◦ Biological control of tropical soda apple in pastures. ◦ Enhanced techniques for controlling whiteflies.

Future OutlookFlorida, with its subtropical climate and many port cities, will always be susceptible to pest invasion. Through widespread use of Integrated Pest Management, Florida’s pest invaders can be brought under control without impacting the environment or consumers.

RELATED MAJORS• Animal Sciences• Biology• Botany• Entomology and

Nematology

• Environmental Management in Agriculture and Natural Resources

• Environmental Science• Horticultural Science• Plant Science

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM)

Critical Issue• Florida has over 7,700 lakes larger than 10 acres. • Detailed scientific information exists for fewer than 10% of these lakes.• Water quality and water quantity are vital issues in all of Florida’s 67 counties.• State agencies do not have enough money to monitor all of Florida’s

aquatic resources.

UF/IFAS SolutionFlorida LAKEWATCH is a volunteer lake monitoring program that facilitates hands-on citizen participation in the management of Florida’s lakes, rivers and coastal sites through monthly monitoring activities. Florida LAKEWATCH was established in 1986 following the University of Florida’s land-grant ethic of promoting teaching, research, and extension with the goal of collecting credible data on Florida’s aquatic systems.

Successes• In 1991, the Florida Legislature recognized the importance of the program and

established Florida LAKEWATCH in the state statutes (F.S. 1004.49).• LAKEWATCH is one of the largest lake monitoring programs in the nation.• 1,800 trained citizens monitoring more than 600 lakes, rivers and coastal sites in

more than 40 counties. • Data from LAKEWATCH monitoring has been used in 40+ peer reviewed

research papers. • Volunteers take samples to collection sites located in 57 counties.• In the last 25 years, LAKEWATCH staff have mentored over 35 graduate students and

an average of 25 undergraduate students in water quality/fisheries classes.• Each year LAKEWATCH staff hold approximately 20 regional meetings at different

locations throughout Florida, inviting all volunteers to attend.

Future OutlookWith continued rapid population growth in Florida there is an urgent need to increase the monitoring of Florida’s aquatic resources. With decreased budgets, the only way to accomplish this is to utilize volunteers in monitoring programs who are cost effective and capable of collecting quality data.

RELATED MAJORS• Biology• Botany• Environmental

Engineering

• Geology • Marine Sciences• Natural Resource

Conservation

• Soil and Water Science• Wildlife Ecology and

Conservation

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




FLORIDA LAKEWATCH

Critical Issue• Snapper, grouper and other deep-water fish are especially susceptible to internal

organ damage caused by pressure change when they are quickly brought to the surface on hook and line.

• High mortality rates have led to restrictions on fishing for popular sport fish like red snapper and grouper.

• Research has shown that you can significantly increase the survival rate of the fish you catch with proper handling during release.

UF/IFAS SolutionFlorida Sea Grant agents in IFAS Extension are working with the recreational fishing industry to instruct anglers in novel ways of quickly returning fish to depth while minimizing injury. Through Sea Grant workshops, practical demonstrations at sea, and public information campaigns, fishermen are learning how to use descending techniques and gear from a variety of equipment that has appeared on the market.

Successes• Fish descending training has been provided for Extension faculty throughout

Florida, Louisiana, Virginia and North Carolina. More than a dozen types of gear have been tested. Stakeholder buy-in has greatly increased, as well as knowledge of release mortality issues.

• Florida Sea Grant and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission have jointly published a new “Catch & Release” brochure that is being distributed throughout the state.

• Safer research protocols have also been developed for tagging goliath grouper, a critically endangered species.

Future OutlookIf discard mortality can be reduced, there is hope that closures and bag limits could be lessened, improving economic impacts in the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World.”

RELATED MAJORS• Biology• Environmental

Engineering• Fisheries Science

• Marine Science• Natural Resource

Conservation

• Wildlife Ecology and Conservation

• Zoology

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




CATCH-AND-RELEASE FISHING: GET THAT FISH BACK DOWN!

Critical Issue• 95% of Florida’s 44,700 farms are considered small farms according to the USDA. • The consumer demand for local food is greater than the supply. • Challenges facing small and medium-sized farm operators include: limited access

to credit and crop insurance, limited time and labor, increasing state and federal regulations, lack of distribution and processing networks serving small farms.

UF/IFAS SolutionUF and FAMU state and county Extension work together on the following programs:• Small Farms and

Alternative Enterprises• Florida Farm-to-School

Program

• Small Farms Academy• Building Your Farm’s

Food Safety Plan • Annie’s Project

• Starting a Successful Hydroponic Business

Successes• 185 producers and packers have created farm food safety plans in our Food Safety

Workshops.• In 2013, close to 700 people attended 75 exhibits at the Small Farms and Alternative

Enterprises Conference.• 2012 Search for Excellence Award in the area of Farm Health and Safety. • 2010 Best Practice Award Finalist Team Division, Sustainable Florida.

Future OutlookThe Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises team aims to cultivate a robust and resilient food system in Florida, and ensure an abundant, sustainable, nutritious, safe and affordable food supply for all.



Management• Animal Sciences

• Business Administration

• Economics• Food and Resource

Economics

• Horticultural Science• Plant Science

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




SMALL FARMS AND ALTERNATIVE ENTERPRISES

Critical Issue Florida has 67 counties, each of which faces its own unique issues and challenges, including water quality and conservation, growing the local economy, building communities that support a high quality of life and promoting healthy lifestyles by staying active and eating right.

UF/IFAS Solution UF/IFAS Extension brings the University of Florida’s expertise to each county through local Extension offices. UF/IFAS faculty and staff lead programs that directly address critical problems at the local level.UF/IFAS Extension has developed a strong partnership with Florida Association of Counties (FAC) to deliver education programs for county leaders. This partnership provides a leadership program of excellence that incorporates nationally known speakers and faculty from the University of Florida. In 2012, UF/IFAS Extension increased its participation and is currently the sole sponsor of FACTOR, which encompasses all of FAC’s education certification programs.

Successes• State and county faculty respond to nearly 5 million citizen requests on an

individual basis and through group educational events each year. • Two out of three people who used UF/IFAS Extension services said they applied

information they learned to improve their agricultural production practices, personal lives or businesses.

• In 2012, more than 37,000 Extension-trained volunteers donated the equivalent of $30.2 million in services or time. Using our successful volunteer programs, UF/IFAS Extension is able to provide services to communities that ordinarily could not afford them.

• Florida Cooperative Extension receives the majority of its funding through state and local governments. In 2012-2013, 94% of the $66.6 million budget was received from state and local governments.

Future OutlookUnique partnerships between UF/IFS Extension and Florida’s county governments bring incredible resources from UF directly to Florida residents. However, the value of these partnerships needs to be constantly communicated to decision makers to ensure the quality of Extension programs and continued inclusion in county budgets.

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




PARTNERING WITH LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Critical Issue Florida’s future depends on how we address many important issues. Managing water usage, encouraging healthy lifestyles, building stronger agriculture and tourism business sectors, protecting our natural resources and unique wildlife--all are critical to how we’ll live in the next 100 years.Managing the delicate balance between population and economic growth and preserving the things that make life in Florida so special is a constant challenge.

UF/IFAS Solution Faculty and staff from the UF/FAS Extension are working on finding solutions to these critical issues every day. From combating citrus greening to controlling invasive pests, Extension faculty bring the latest discoveries from UF directly to the aid of Florida’s residents. UF/IFAS Extension works closely with the state agencies such as the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

SuccessesThe State of Florida invests approximately $140 million annually in agricultural research and Extension, which in return contributes about $1.4 billion in economic benefits to the state.State investments in UF/IFAS research and Extension programs have shown significant returns that hold promise for creating jobs and improving Florida’s economic vitality. Every dollar invested in Florida agricultural research returns $10 in benefits from increased productivity by agricultural producers and lower prices for consumers. Agricultural research also improves environmental quality, increases food safety and enhances our health and quality of life.

Future OutlookThe world has seen phenomenal technological change in the last decade, and UF/IFAS is demonstrating leadership in that arena. IFAS scientists and Extension faculty are rapidly developing and releasing new crop varieties, new management practices for growers and homeowners, and new mobile apps that put a wealth of research-based information at our fingertips.

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




PARTNERING WITH THE STATE OF FLORIDA

Critical Issue By 2050, there will be more than 9 billion people in the world, and United States will provide food for a vast majority of the global population. Within the U.S., we face the critical issue of childhood obesity, along with growing ranks of citizens who do not get enough to eat. Moreover, we face issues about water usage, caring for our environment, revitalizing rural American communities, and empowering youth and families.

UF/IFAS Solution The Cooperative Extension System is a nationwide, non-credit educational network administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Extension collaborates with states, land-grant universities and counties to provide resources to solve these issues. In Florida, UF/IFAS Extension is staffed by experts who provide useful, practical, and research-based information to agricultural producers, small business owners, youth, consumers, and others in rural areas and communities of all sizes.

SuccessesUSDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is the federal partner in the Cooperative Extension System. It provides federal funding to the system and, through program leadership, helps the system identify and address current issues and problems.UF/IFAS Extension also works with USDA’s Farm Service Agency and the Natural Resources and Conservation Service to improve forest health, assist Florida farmers, improve honeybee health and many other initiatives to assist agricultural producers and protect our natural resources.

Future OutlookInvestment in federal programs that support state Extension work is important, especially when some problems need a multi-state approach. Federal decision makers need to understand the importance of this investment to our health, national security and economic well-being.

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




PARTNERING WITH FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

Critical Issue Florida’s challenges are many and complex. No one agency on its own can solve the problems of keeping our residents healthy and economically secure, strengthening our agriculture and tourism industries, protecting our homes from natural disasters and our environment from pollution and invasive pests. It takes partnerships with stakeholders in public and private organizations on all levels to face the challenges of the next 100 years.

UF/IFAS Solution UF/IFAS Extension partners the Florida Farm Bureau, water management districts, Florida Association of Counties, United Way, Council on Aging, and numerous commodity groups such as the Florida Cattlemen Association, the Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association, Florida Fruits and Vegetable Association, Florida Citrus League and many, many others to help Floridians find solutions to the issues that matter to them.

SuccessesWorking with state government, and water management districts, UF/IFAS Extension has developed best management practices for responsible irrigation and nutrition for agricultural operations that work to protect the environment and increase productivity. The result is reductions in water usage and the amount of nutrients needed in farm operations.In the spring of 2008, the Florida tomato market was devastated after federal investigators mistakenly blamed fresh tomatoes for a multistate outbreak of food-borne illness. To help prevent similar disasters and to safeguard consumers, the Florida tomato industry and UF/IFAS Extension partnered to train locals growers, food industry professionals and individuals in produce safety practices. An Extension-produced “Tomato School” website provides information to help growers prepare for food-safety audits. Since July 2008, there have been no outbreaks of foodborne illness blamed on Florida tomatoes. Florida tomato sales have rebounded, and consumer confidence has been restored.

Future OutlookFlorida’s future is brighter when UF/IFAS Extension collaborates with industry, community groups and nonprofit organizations to serve residents. Together we can truly make a difference in creating a better quality of life for our communities.

UF/IFAS EXTENSION




PARTNERING WITH NONPROFITS, INDUSTRY & COMMUNITIES

Documents

SolutionsForYourLifecombranding.ifas.ufl.edu/media/brandingifasufledu/100... · market their bulls at a central location using best-known management techniques, ... • Irrigation