MAITLAND, FL - Calling all Florida tomato producers! The Florida Tomato Committee (FTC) is seeking nominations of growers to serve on the committee for a two-year term, from September 2023–September 2025.

“I encourage any and all growers in Central and South Florida, no matter how small their operations, to consider volunteering to serve on the committee, which in turn serves to support the state’s tomato industry,” said FTC Manager Michael Schadler. “We are looking for candidates who can bring a fresh perspective on how the FTC can better help the Florida tomato industry to thrive.”

The FTC will be holding a virtual meeting on Wednesday, May 10, for tomato producers to nominate fellow growers or themselves to serve, according to a release. The organization is a federal marketing order that regulates the handling of Florida tomatoes and supports the industry through research and promotion efforts.

The committee oversees production in two districts covering Central and South Florida, with each district having five open member positions and five open alternate positions for a total of 10 members and 10 alternates on the full committee. Districts include:

• District 1 Counties: Broward, Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Palm Beach
• District 2 Counties: Brevard, DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Manatee, Martin, Okeechobee, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, St. Lucie

Anyone who has grown tomatoes in a commercial capacity or who is an officer of a corporate producer in either of the FTC districts during the 2022–23 season will be eligible to nominate and be nominated.

Growers interested in participating or who have questions can reach the Florida Tomato Committee office at 407-660-1949 or [email protected].

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Florida Tomato Committee