What’s behind a severe decline in Florida’s citrus harvest

The video discusses the severe impact of citrus greening disease on Florida's citrus industry, highlighting the challenges faced by growers and the drastic decline in orange production. It explores the disease's effects on trees, the economic consequences for large and small growers, and the industry's uncertain future. Despite the bleak outlook, research efforts are underway to find solutions, including protective canopies and disease-resistant tree varieties. The video emphasizes the importance of innovation and adaptation to sustain the citrus industry in Florida.

What is the primary cause of the economic challenges faced by citrus growers in Florida?

• Increased labor costs

• Citrus greening disease

• Overproduction of fruit

• Lack of rainfall

How has Florida's orange production changed from 2004 to the present?

• It has decreased drastically

• It has remained stable

• It has increased significantly

• It has fluctuated unpredictably

What insect is responsible for spreading citrus greening disease?

• Beetles

• Psyllids

• Aphids

• Moths

What additional challenge did Archie Rich face in his orange harvest last year?

• Frost

• Hurricanes

• Pest infestation

• Drought

What role does Brenda Eubanks Burnett play in the citrus industry?

• Government official

• Citrus grower

• Research scientist

• Citrus Hall of Fame director

What is one of the solutions being tested to combat citrus greening?

• Growing trees under protective canopies

• Increasing irrigation

• Reducing fruit production

• Using chemical pesticides

What is the ultimate goal of the research being conducted at the University of Florida Citrus Research Facility?

• To increase fruit size

• To develop a disease-resistant citrus variety

• To improve fruit taste

• To reduce labor costs