Creation of institutional incentives and funding that focus public and private research, education, and technology development on integrating agricultural productivity and profitability with environmental stewardship. New technology in all areas has improved agricultural production, thus its sustainability. New disease resistant hybrids, biological pest control, reduced pesticide use, cultural practices that reduce the incidence of pests and diseases, and better placement and reduced amounts of fertilizers are all being employed. Insect specific chemicals and biological insect controls are now being utilized, instead of broad-spectrum pesticides, that actually reduces the number of sprays needed along with costs. Micro-sprinkler water is now being applied directly to the roots, not overhead or flooding of the entire block as was done in the past.
Agriculture manages land for both agriculture and wildlife.
In many SW Florida citrus groves, water retention areas and woodland corridors allow animals and birds to flourish. In citrus, technology has helped growers in many areas to reduce costs and improve production. Growers use disease resistant varieties where possible. Research and biotechnology have given growers new plant varieties that produce more and require fewer inputs. IPM or integrated pest management is utilized in our production programs and have greatly reduced the applications of pesticides and the costs associated with sprays.