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Enhancing Peanut Production in the Suwannee Valley: A Comprehensive Extension Program for Sustainability and Productivity

Agronomy & Pest Management

Emily Beach
Mayo

Abstract

Statement: The peanut industry plays a vital role in the Suwannee Valley Region of North Florida, a key agricultural area spanning eight counties. With over 100 independent farms covering more than 42,000 acres and generating annual revenues of approximately $37.8 million, the industry significantly contributes to the region's socio-economic landscape. The collaborative efforts of county and regional extension faculty are crucial in supporting peanut producers through educational and support services, addressing the dynamic challenges posed by evolving technologies and scientific advancements.  Objective: The primary aim of this program is to provide peanut producers in the Suwannee Valley with access to cutting-edge research and methodologies to boost sustainability, productivity, and profitability. This includes guidance on selecting appropriate cultivars, managing pesticide applications efficiently, and optimizing harvest timing to ensure crop maturity.  Methods: A Row Crop Working Group was established to offer timely and regionally relevant information to producers. A comprehensive program comprising on-farm and research-led small plot trials, extensive site visits, workshops, clinics, and field days was developed. The program focuses on proactive and collaborative evaluation of pesticide products, comparison of peanut varieties, and optimization of harvest timing, supported by industry stakeholders like the Florida Peanut Federation. Services such as scouting, soil, tissue, and nematode sampling are provided, at no cost to the farmer.  Impact: In 2023, the program attracted 301 attendees to its production meetings and field days. Scouting services were provided for approximately 4,500 acres, saving producers a total of $45,000. Additionally, 40 samples were sent to diagnostic clinics, saving $1,600, and pod blasting for 20 producers over 5,000 acres led to increased yields with an economic impact of $625,000.  Extension Education: The program serves as a model that could be replicated in any region or for any commodity requiring support for effective production methods. Through this initiative, growers are empowered with the knowledge and tools necessary for modern agricultural practices, underscoring the program's significant role in enhancing the productivity and sustainability of the peanut industry in the Suwannee Valley Region.

Authors: Emily Beach, Keith Wynn, Mark Warren, Tyler Pittman, Kevin Korus, Jay Capasso, Shivendra Kumar
  1. Emily Beach Agriculture Extension Agent II, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32066
  2. Keith Wynn Agriculture Extension Agent III, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32052
  3. Mark Warren County Extension Director and Agriculture Extension Agent III, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32621
  4. Tyler Pittman Agriculture Extension Agent II, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32693
  5. Kevin Korus Agriculture Extension Agent II, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32669
  6. Jay Capasso Regional Specialized Extension Agent, Water, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32060
  7. Shivendra Kumar Regional Specialized Agent, Agronomic Crops, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32060