2011 has proven to be a great year for the evolving partnership between the PIE Center and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). In total, the PIE Center has worked on four different ventures with FDACS, two of which have already been completed.

A survey conducted with the participants of FDACS’ Agriscience Leadership Education Program discovered that participants placed a high value on their experiences with the program. In addition, they were able to improve their educator effectiveness, networking capabilities and accept new leadership roles after the program concluded.

Through another FDACS Specialty Crops Block Grant, the PIE Center and Florida Extension’s Small Farm and Alternative Enterprises focus team were able to conduct six focus groups with small farmers throughout Florida. These groups asked the farmers about current challenges, business needs, food safety and more. Overall, the farmers provided information that will aid Extension in serving Florida’s small farm population.

A third collaboration, scheduled for completion by the end of the year, involves the newly rebranded Florida Forest Service. Focus groups and a survey helped shape the communication strategies of the organization.

The most recent project between FDACS and the PIE Center will kick off at the start of 2012. Through the 2012 Specialty Crops Block Grant, the PIE Center will identify messages that connect Florida consumers, agriculture and local food as “Fresh from Florida.”

Other organizations the PIE Center is currently working with include:

• Florida Farm Bureau Federation
• Florida Fertilizer and Agrichemical Association
• Florida Forestry Association
• Florida Pest Management Association
• Florida Sod Growers Cooperative
• Suwannee River Partnership

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