Reset, replant, renew, renaissance: these are not just words for Steve Johnson, Chairman of the Florida Citrus Commission, but central themes for the Florida citrus industry’s ongoing battle against citrus greening. Johnson has expressed optimism for the industry’s future, advocating for determination and ingenuity to counteract the challenges they face.
Johnson, along with the Florida Citrus Commission and the Florida Department of Citrus, continues to work with Florida Citrus Mutual to represent the industry at the Capitol. He expressed gratitude towards Senate President Ben Albritton and state officials for their support. The industry acknowledges its need for assistance on multiple levels but remains hopeful, despite the uncertainty surrounding the final state budget due on May 2.
Johnson emphasized, “It will take time, it will take a lot of effort, it will take support from the State Legislature, and it will require continued loyalty from consumers around the world who love Florida Orange Juice— but we will see a brighter future for Florida Citrus.”
Further developments and initiatives are expected to be discussed at the next Florida Citrus Commission meeting slated for May 21 at 9:00 a.m. EST. Steve Johnson also leads Johnson Harvesting, Inc. in Wauchula, FL.
