Florida's citrus industry faces perfect storm of challenges. The state is experiencing its worst drought in 25 years, with 100 percent of Florida under some level of drought conditions and more than 75 percent in extreme drought. This compounds existing pressures from citrus greening disease, recent hurricanes, and freezes that have devastated growers. Florida's citrus acreage has collapsed from over 800,000 acres in 2000 to just 200,000 acres today. The drought intensifies irrigation costs powered by expensive diesel and electricity. However, growers are adapting through innovative solutions like protective screen technology, allowing crops to be grown under controlled conditions that preserve soil moisture. The industry remains critical to Florida's economy, representing 17 percent of national citrus production and serving as a lifeline for many communities throughout the state.
