Page 24 - Strategic Plan

Biotic and abiotic stresses have always challenged agriculture and will continue to do so into the fu- ture. The main threats to south Florida agricultural production include the introduction of exotic pests, high freshwater tables, and salinization. Minimiz- ing these stresses is part of a holistic strategy to safeguard grower profitability and the vitality of our communities. Among other things, our effort will be geared to monitoring invasive pests and diseases; providing a range of alternative crops for diversification of crop species/cultivars under cul- tivation; optimizing the use of agricultural inputs; breeding new, locally adapted cultivars resilient to biotic and abiotic stress; and coordinating with agencies and stakeholders to address and manage impacts of high freshwater tables and sea level rise.
Goals
• Develop new crops/cultivars and innovative technology to boost and sustain productivi- ty and competitiveness as central elements of food and nutritional security.
• Develop innovative and relevant research and science-based management practices.
• Prepare and support producers to apply com- petitive, sustainable, and inclusive business models in agriculture.
• Educate consumers about buying local as an important step toward true sustainability.
Outcomes
The outcome of investment in agricultural innova- tion is a more resilient and profitable industry for south Florida. This can be achieved through coor- dinated research and extension to reduce import competition, manage labor costs, and mitigate biotic and abiotic stresses. Many of the potential solutions are long-term investments focused on the timeless needs mentioned above.
Program 2.
Natural Resource Conservation
Current Situation
Healthy ecosystems provide many benefits to the environment as well as nearby communities. Nat- ural resources (i.e., water, air, land, and solar en- ergy) provide food, purify water, cycle nutrients, stabilize climate, moderate the impact of extreme events, and support habitats. Natural resources
play a critical role in the livelihood of south Flori- da residents and have social, environmental, and economic benefits. The pressure of unprecedented demand and exploitation of our natural resources will continue to increase with population growth. This pressure can alter the structure and function of natural ecosystems. Excess fertilizer use, stream channelization, and artificial drainage in agricul- tural landscapes have had a negative impact on biodiversity and ecosystem functions of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Urbanization has exacer- bated eutrophication and hypoxia in estuaries and bays. Climate change, which will only compound these issues, negatively affects important ecolog- ical processes and threatens the stability of natu- ral resources. Long-term protection of natural re- sources involves, but is not limited to, conservation of critical lands, a reduction in nutrient depletion, better nutrient management, the creation of ripar- ian buffers, and the control of impervious cover. Research and monitoring are critical to developing conservation strategies that preserve or enhance natural resources.
Major Issues
• Degradation/loss of inland and coastal areas to urbanization.
• Modification of inland and coastal lands from agricultural practices.
• SustainablemanagementoftheBiscayneAqui- fer to satisfy water quantity and quality in natu- ral, urban, and agricultural areas.
• Impacts of climate change and sea level rise..
Broad Goals
• Advanceagriculturalscienceandinnovationfor better management of natural resources in the face of climate change and other challenges.
• Facilitate the development of natural resource management practices.
Outcomes
The outcome of this research and extension pro- gram would be the provision of science-based information, tools, technologies, and resourc- es needed to address natural resource challeng- es and develop sustainable solutions to various stakeholders, including natural resource manag- ers, landowners, and government officials. This en- deavor would increase appreciation for protecting and restoring natural resources.
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