1. Citrus Greening Disease (Huanglongbing or HLB): A bacterial infection spread by the Asian citrus psyllid insect, HLB has devastated millions of acres of groves, reducing Florida's total citrus production by 74%.

2. Hurricanes and Natural Disasters: Recent hurricanes, including Irma (2017), Ian (2022), and Milton (2024), have caused extensive damage to citrus groves, compounding the industry's challenges.

3. Urbanization and Land Development: Rapid population growth has led to the conversion of citrus groves into residential and commercial developments, significantly reducing available agricultural land.

4. Decline in Citrus Acreage: Florida's citrus acreage has decreased from 832,000 acres in 2000 to less than 275,000 acres in 2024, reflecting a substantial loss of groves.

5. Economic Pressures on Growers: Rising production costs, coupled with decreasing yields due to disease and natural disasters, have made citrus farming less economically viable, leading some growers to cease operations.

6. Labor Shortages: The agricultural sector faces challenges in securing sufficient labor for grove maintenance and harvesting, impacting productivity.

7. Aging Trees: Many citrus trees in Florida are reaching the end of their productive lifespan, necessitating replanting efforts that are often hindered by economic constraints and disease concerns.

8. Water Management Issues: Irrigation challenges, including water scarcity and regulatory restrictions, affect grove sustainability and fruit quality.

9. Competition from Other Regions: Other citrus-producing regions, such as Brazil, have increased production, intensifying competition and affecting Florida's market share.

10. Climate Change: Changing climate patterns contribute to more frequent and severe weather events, such as hurricanes and droughts, adversely affecting citrus groves.

11. Pest Infestations: Beyond the Asian citrus psyllid, other pests threaten citrus health, requiring increased management efforts.

12. Soil Degradation: Continuous cultivation without adequate soil management leads to nutrient depletion, affecting tree health and yields.

13. Decreased Juice Consumption: Shifts in consumer preferences and dietary trends have led to reduced demand for orange juice, impacting market prices.

14. Trade Policies: International trade agreements and tariffs can influence the competitiveness of Florida citrus in global markets.

15. Disease Management Costs: The financial burden of implementing disease prevention and treatment measures strains growers' resources.

16. Research and Development Gaps: Insufficient funding and delays in developing disease-resistant tree varieties hinder recovery efforts.

17. Loss of Agricultural Knowledge: As generational farmers exit the industry, valuable expertise is lost, affecting best practices in grove management.

18. Financial Instability: Fluctuating market prices and unpredictable yields contribute to financial uncertainty for growers.

19. Regulatory Challenges: Compliance with environmental and agricultural regulations can impose additional costs and operational constraints.

20. Public Awareness: A lack of public understanding about the industry's challenges may result in insufficient support for mitigation efforts.

21. Infrastructure Damage: Natural disasters not only damage groves but also the infrastructure necessary for processing and distribution.

22. Insurance Limitations: High costs and limited availability of insurance for natural disasters leave growers vulnerable to financial losses.

23. Market Volatility: Global economic fluctuations can affect demand and pricing for citrus products.

24. Environmental Concerns: Public scrutiny over pesticide use and environmental impact may lead to stricter regulations and increased production costs.

25. Succession Challenges: Difficulties in attracting younger generations to continue farming traditions threaten the long-term sustainability of citrus operations.

Potential Consequences of Continued Decline:

• Economic Impact: Further reduction in citrus production could lead to significant economic losses, affecting not only growers but also associated industries such as processing, transportation, and retail.

• Cultural Loss: The decline of citrus groves erodes a key aspect of Florida's heritage and identity, diminishing traditions linked to citrus farming and consumption.

• Environmental Effects: The conversion of groves to urban areas may disrupt ecosystems, reduce biodiversity, and alter local climates.

• Supply Chain Disruptions: Decreased local production may lead to increased reliance on imported citrus, potentially affecting supply stability and quality.

• Job Losses: The downturn in the citrus industry threatens employment for thousands of workers involved in cultivation, harvesting, processing, and distribution.

Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive strategies, including investment in research for disease-resistant varieties, support for sustainable farming practices, and policies that balance development with agricultural preservation.

When you donate to the Save Florida Citrus Groves Foundation, you're investing in the future of Florida's most beloved natural treasure. Your generosity helps us bring abandoned groves back to life, plant disease-resistant trees, and preserve vital land from commercial development. We’re not just about keeping oranges on grocery store shelves—we’re about saving a legacy that’s woven into the very identity of the Sunshine State.

Your donation fuels groundbreaking research to combat citrus greening, supports young farmers learning the craft of citrus cultivation, and funds projects that create sustainable, environmentally friendly farming practices. Every dollar helps us protect a piece of Florida’s history, provide jobs, and cultivate a future where the sweet scent of orange blossoms fills the air once again.