Hurricane Ian Devastates Citrus Grower's Florida, Causing Crop Losses

The aftermath of Hurricane Ian showed citrus growers' devastation and crop losses, affecting citrus supply and livelihood in Florida.

Although Hurricane Ian had already dissipated after pounding the city of Florida, the aftermath was catastrophic, causing massive damage to lives, properties, infrastructures, and livelihoods.

State officials and President Joe Biden called for immediate assistance for affected residents.

NGOs and volunteers extended their assistance by preparing food packs and temporary shelters.

The image of the aftermath was devastating, especially for communities that started to return home.

Furthermore, Florida is known as one of the main citrus producers and a booming farmer industry, and growing citrus serves as a source of livelihood for residents.

However, the impact of Hurricane Ian also disrupted and impacted the agricultural sector, especially the citrus growers.

The flooding rainfalls and winds of Hurricane Ian caused damage to citrus growers in the state.

Citrus in Florida

According to The Ledger, Ray Royce explained that citrus growers reported from 15% to 80% losses in citrus.

He added that parts of DeSoto counties, Hardee, and Highlands County could have been affected by tremendous flooding in the Myakka River Valley.

Royce is the executive director of the Highlands Citrus Growers Association.

According to the report, citrus growers suffered from the following:

In Lee Country, agricultural Gene McAvoy observed 10% to 20% damaged trees and 30 to 70% fruit drop.
In Southern Polk County, Matt Joyner said that the area recorded a 20% to 50% fruit drop. Joyner is the executive vice president and CEO of Citrus Mutual, Bartow.
The report also added that the worst of Hurricane Ian hit grove areas in Manatee counties, Hardee, Highlands, Charlottle, Southern Polk, and DeSoto.

The effect on citrus growers could affect the livelihood of residents and consumers.

According to Royce, the damaging impact would continue for months or years.

Meanwhile, some portions of the United States, especially in the Midwest to Northwest, could feel a widespread cooldown that would alleviate the warm to near-record high temperatures.

Also Read: New Report Reveals Declining Population of Gray Whale Off Western U.S

The current Tropical Storm Julia is not expected to land in the United States but would unleash heavy rains and potential flooding in Central America and Southern Mexico.

Tropical Storm Watch and Warnings are in effect in affected areas.

Benefits of Citrus

The importance of citrus for consumers shows the amazing benefits.

According to Harvard Health, citrus became the month's fruit on December 1, 2021, recognizing the health benefits it provides.

Citrus contains heart-healthy nutrients with Fiber and flavonoids.

On the other hand, the research studying the benefits of citrus to human health said citrus has essential nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, Fiber, calcium, niacin, vitamin B6, magnesium, and phosphorous.

The ample benefits from citrus promote a healthy body, noting that citrus is anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-oxidative, and good for cardiovascular diseases.

The research noted that citrus fruits belong to the family of Rutaceae, which contains lemons, mandarins, oranges, grapefruits, and citrus.