Aug
04
2011
2011 Research Review
The 2011 Research Review highlights all of the exciting projects going on at the PIE Center. For more information on any of the projects listed in the review, please contact us. Click here to view the 2011 Research Review.
Jul
15
2011
Challenges Facing Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises in Agriculture
In order to strengthen the Small Farm Industry in Florida, it is important to understand the programmatic needs, concerns, and resources of small farmers. A recent study completed by the Center for Public Issues Education in Agriculture and Natural Resources (PIE Center) in partnership with the University of Florida and Florida A & M Extension’s Small Farm and Alternative Enterprise division provides valuable information concerning the needs, challenges, and frustrations of small farmers. This research was funded by a grant provided by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Participants were asked about their challenges, current business practices,
May
31
2011
Tracking Poll Research Identifies Water as Top Issue Facing Florida Agriculture
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – In collaboration with the Wedgworth Leadership Institute, The University of Florida’s Center for Public Issues Education in Agriculture and Natural Resources (the PIE Center) recently conducted research to track industry leaders’ perceptions of emerging and critical issues within the agriculture and natural resources sectors. The 30 members of Wedgworth’s Class VIII had the opportunity to list five issues using an online questionnaire distributed in February. From the issues identified, five were consistently identified by opinion leaders as important to Florida agriculture and natural resources: Water, Labor, Regulation, Food Safety/Regulation and Land Use. Opinion leaders were able to