Ron Rice has been recognized as the Florida Farm Bureau Federation (FFBF) Extension Professional of the Year for his contributions to agriculture in Palm Beach County. Rice has played a key role in connecting local farmers with government agencies and educating both officials and the public about agricultural issues.
Keith Friedrich, who nominated Rice for the award, described him as “agriculture’s most effective champion at the County Commission and across county departments.” Rice himself downplayed his unique position, saying, “Whatever Eva told me to do, I did it,” referring to his straightforward approach to supporting Farm Bureau initiatives.
Rice’s career includes academic work that advocated for farm-level best management practices over regulations to reduce phosphorus levels in drainage waters. He has also focused on public education through events such as bus tours of Palm Beach farms and family-oriented activities supported by county government funding.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Rice worked with FFBF and Young Farmer & Rancher volunteers to connect local growers with consumers by collecting grower information and distributing advertising signs for roadside stands. His efforts have included logistical support for agricultural education events, promotion at fairs, and staffing fresh produce markets.
Rice was instrumental in expanding representation on the Agricultural Enhancement Council (AEC), leading a successful effort that resulted in a County Commission resolution increasing council seats to include members from agritourism and smaller farms.
His ongoing projects involve collaborating with county officials and Friends of Mounts Botanical Garden on plans for new research facilities and greenhouse space at his Extension office campus. These additions aim to promote horticulture by allowing visitors to observe ongoing research firsthand.
Although much of Rice’s work occurs behind the scenes, he will be formally honored at this month’s annual meeting as Extension Professional of the Year. The announcement came from J. Scott Angle, University of Florida’s Senior Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources and leader of UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS).
