Florida Land Steward Update, July 24, 2026 (7/24/2026) - UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA SEEKING NEWLY PLANTED LOBLOLLY PINE SITES IMPACTED BY DROUGHT Do you have newly planted loblolly pine trees and think they may have suffered higher than usual mortality this year? The University of Florida IFAS is investigating the survival of loblolly pines planted during the 2025-2026 drought. If you have land in Florida,… more
The Oak, the Moss, and the Fern: The Art of Living Together (7/23/2026) - Have you ever found yourself standing beneath a giant live oak and looking up? Its massive branches stretch across the sky like arms. Silvery strands of Spanish moss move along with the breeze, while clusters of green resurrection fern seem to struggle to survive attached to the bark. Together, they create one of Florida's most… more
Wildlife Watch: Seeing more armadillos this summer? UF/IFAS experts explain in this Ask IFAS bilingual guide (7/23/2026) - About this series This month’s Wildlife Watch installment spotlights the nine-banded armadillo. As residential and commercial development expands across Florida, wildlife is adapting to live closer to people and, in some cases, faces increased threats. The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) shares tips through Ask IFAS Extension publications, available in… more
Descubriendo la Vida Silvestre: ¿has visto más armadillos este verano? Expertos lo explican en esta guía bilingüe de Ask IFAS (7/23/2026) - Creado por Lourdes Mederos, gerente de relaciones públicas en español para el Departamento de Comunicaciones de UF/IFAS. Acerca de esta serie La entrega de este mes de Descubriendo la Vida Silvestre destaca al armadillo de nueve bandas. A medida que el desarrollo residencial y comercial continúa expandiéndose en toda Florida, la vida silvestre se adapta… more
Back-to-School on a Budget: Smart Tips to Save Big (7/23/2026) - Back-to-School on a Budget: Smart Tips to SaveThe last week of July is here, and that means baBack-to-school shopping is in full swing. While a new school year brings excitement, it can also put a strain on the family budget. With prices on the rise and school supply lists getting longer each year, it's more… more
Fire Safety: Kitchen and Cooking Safety (7/22/2026) - With wildfires making headlines across the country, it's a good time to revisit an important topic: kitchen and cooking safety. While wildfires are a significant concern, the kitchen remains one of the most common places for fires to start in the home. Cooking fires can happen quickly and without warning, making it essential for families… more
Florida Heat Isn’t Just Hard on Your Plants—It’s Hard on You, Too (7/21/2026) - As Florida Master Gardeners, we know summer gardening isn't for the faint of heart. We carefully watch our plants for signs of heat stress, adjust our watering schedules, and look for ways to help our gardens survive another hot, humid day. But here's the question: Are we paying the same attention to ourselves? Florida's heat… more
Keeping Cedar Key Clean: Join the 41st Annual International Coastal Cleanup (7/21/2026) - Cedar Key community members and visitors are invited to help protect our coast during the 41st Annual International Coastal Cleanup on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Cedar Key City Park. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. Organized annually by the Ocean Conservancy, the International Coastal Cleanup brings together volunteers around… more
SilvaLab Completes Summer 2026 Field Campaign to Advance Next-Generation Wildfire Science (7/20/2026) - Researchers from the University of Florida’s School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences (SFFGS) completed a two-week field campaign across Fish Lake National Forest, Utah, and North Kaibab National Forest, Arizona, that will advance next-generation wildfire monitoring and decision-support systems. Scientists from the Forest Biometrics, Remote Sensing and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (SilvaLab) collected field and… more
Vacation Doesn’t Mean Taking a Vacation from Your Health (7/20/2026) - Summer is the perfect time to pack your bags, spend time with family and friends, and explore new places. Whether you're heading to the beach, taking a road trip, or enjoying a weekend getaway, vacations provide an opportunity to relax and recharge. While it's important to take a break from your daily routine, your healthy… more
Healthy Eating with Diabetes: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference (7/20/2026) - Living with diabetes doesn’t mean giving up the foods you enjoy. Instead, it means learning how to make healthier choices that help keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range while supporting your overall well-being. A balanced diet is one of the most powerful tools for managing diabetes, reducing the risk of complications, and improving… more
What is a Trump Account? (7/20/2026) - You may have heard something in the news about a Trump Account (TA) and wondered what it’s all about. Established by the 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), Trump Accounts are a type of individual retirement account (IRA) for beneficiaries who are under 18. Who Qualifies? An “eligible individual” is one who is under… more
Aprenda a proteger su pozo de agua y su sistema séptico durante la temporada de tormentas con esta serie gratuita de seminarios web de UF/IFAS (7/20/2026) - Creado por Lourdes Mederos, gerente de relaciones públicas en español para el Departamento de Comunicaciones de UF/IFAS. Muchos hogares de Florida dependen de pozos privados para obtener agua potable y de sistemas sépticos para tratar las aguas residuales domésticas. Los huracanes, las inundaciones y los problemas de mantenimiento rutinario pueden afectar la seguridad y el… more
Learn to safeguard your well water, septic system for storm season with this free UF/IFAS webinar series (7/20/2026) - Many Floridians rely on private wells for drinking water and septic systems to treat household wastewater. Hurricanes, flooding and routine maintenance challenges can affect the safety and reliability of these systems. To help homeowners prepare, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension Florida Well Owner Network is offering a free… more
Keeping Sarasota Cool: Equipping Sarasota for Extreme Heat Conditions (7/15/2026) - Over the last three summers, our team has interacted with residents in Sarasota County to discuss extreme heat science, safety, and conditions in our backyards. During our outreach events, we also distribute free resources such as cooling towels, cold gel packs, handheld fans, electrolyte packets, and water bottles to help people stay cool. During our… more
Potatoes: Growing Better Nutrition (7/14/2026) - My first few weeks as Putnam County’s new Rural Community Health Agent have been packed with activity. Some highlights include getting to know my new coworkers, learning about Putnam County, and providing health and nutrition lessons for youth in 4-H Cloverbuds Camp and Stars & Stripes Camp. I also got the chance to attend Potato… more
Cyclospora cayetanensis: The Microscopic Mystery Scientists Still Can’t Solve (7/14/2026) - Quick Facts Organism: Cyclospora cayetanensis.Type: Single-celled parasite.Causes: Cyclosporiasis.Common source: Contaminated fresh produce or water.Why scientists study it: It cannot yet be reliably cultured in a laboratory, making it one of microbiology's ongoing research challenges. Scientists can detect it, study its DNA and investigate outbreaks. So why can't they easily grow it in the lab? Imagine… more
Hurricane Preparedness Starts at Home (7/13/2026) - Hurricane Preparedness Starts at Home Since hurricane season is here, now is the time to prepare your family, home, and finances for potential storms. Living in Florida means that hurricanes and tropical storms are a reality, but taking simple steps before a storm develops can help reduce stress and protect what matters most. Build an… more
Day in the Life: Nicholas Ranalletta, Nutritional Sciences and Pre-Dental Undergraduate Student (7/13/2026) - We're thrilled to welcome you back to our Food Science and Human Nutrition (FSHN): Day in the Life series! This series is part of our innovative UF/FSHN Careers Advancement Project (CAP), which captures what it's really like to earn degrees in food science, nutritional sciences, and dietetics. This project can help you discover your career… more
July 23: Get storm-ready at UF/IFAS workshop for HOA leaders, arborists, landscape industry, homeowners (7/13/2026) - One poorly maintained tree can cause thousands of dollars in damage during a hurricane, leaving homes and neighborhoods devastated. On July 23, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is hosting “Be ready, be safe! A Hurricane Preparation Workshop” in Homestead to equip landscape professionals, arborists, homeowners’ association leaders, property managers and… more
Florida Land Steward Update, July 10, 2026 (7/10/2026) - FLORIDA WILDLIFE CORRIDOR PAYMENT FOR ECOSYSTEM SERVICES PILOT PROGRAM NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Apply by July 31, 2026! This program will provide financial compensation to eligible landowners to maintain their land undeveloped to provide wildlife habitat connectivity, aquifer recharge, and/or water quality benefits. This pilot program is available to landowners with property within Florida Wildlife Corridor… more
How trying something new helps youth build confidence, resilience, and life skills (7/9/2026) - A familiar moment in youth learning In the Wakulla 4-H program, youth are invited into experiences they may never have tried before. They may learn to safely handle a chicken for a poultry show, light charcoal for a tailgating competition, shoot clay targets in a supervised shooting sports setting, or prepare a speech for a… more
A Bite of History: Chocolate Chip Cookie (7/8/2026) - Ruth Graves (later Ruth Wakefield) was born on June 17, 1903, in Massachusetts. She graduated in 1924 from Framingham Normal School (now Framingham State University), where she studied household arts. Later, she worked as a dietitian, lecturer, and chef. In 1926, she married Kenneth Wakefield. Four years later, in 1930, the couple purchased a Cape… more
Una encuesta nacional sugiere por qué persisten las infestaciones de cucarachas en edificios de apartamentos multifamiliares y abre la puerta a posibles tratamientos (7/6/2026) - Creado por Lourdes Mederos, gerente de relaciones públicas en español para el Departamento de Comunicaciones de UF/IFAS. Las infestaciones de cucarachas afectan a millones de hogares en Estados Unidos, particularmente a quienes viven como inquilinos en edificios de apartamentos multifamiliares, que representaron casi el 70% de las unidades de alquiler en 2023. Un estudio nacional,… more
What’s New on Ask IFAS: Food Science and Human Nutrition (May–June 2026) (7/6/2026) - Food Traceability Rule: Part 2—Definitions and Acronyms By Razieh Farzad and Stephanie R. B. Brown This publication offers a comprehensive list of definitions and acronyms intended as an educational tool for Extension educators and a reference for industry members developing traceability plans. Furthermore, the goal of this document is to make key terms related to… more
8 Sustainable Adventures in Sarasota County (7/6/2026) - Are you stuck doing the same things for fun and looking for affordable ways to enjoy Sarasota County? Luckily, Sarasota County offers a load of sustainable adventures, from its beaches and parks to its sunny weather and countless attractions. When planning an outing, it’s important to keep sustainability in mind because not only does it… more
Wakulla 4-H Volunteers Help Youth Find Their Spark (7/2/2026) - Sometimes Positive Changes Start With One Good Idea and the Courage to Try It Community adults are invited to share skills, lead clubs, support events and build positive youth-adult partnerships In Wakulla County, a volunteer can be the person who helps a young person plant a first garden, safely draw a bow, prepare a family… more
Free family literacy and nutrition program expands statewide reach, adds Type 2 diabetes prevention (7/2/2026) - The UF Books & Cooks literacy and nutrition program is expanding to more counties and will include information on Type 2 diabetes prevention. Participants say the program has boosted their children’s reading abilities and opened a new love for cooking. The program began as a collaboration between UF/IFAS and the UF Lastinger Center for Learning.… more
Árboles en espacios urbanos y huracanes (7/1/2026) - Los árboles son vitales para todos los espacios urbanos, no solo por su capacidad de proveer oxígeno sino también por otros beneficios que brindan como ayudar a regular la temperatura, proteger el suelo y frenar la erosión, resguardar animales y otras plantas y embellecer con su presencia haciendo más agradable la vida en el planeta.… more
When the Heat is On, Hit the Water (7/1/2026) - With temperatures soaring and the heat index in the triple digits, it’s time to make sure you are staying hydrated. Water is the best choice for hydration, while you also can get fluids from milk, fruits, and vegetables. How much water should you drink? Each person’s needs will vary. Factors like exercise, climate, and health… more
Hummus: A Nutritious Dip with Ancient Roots (7/1/2026) - Hummus has become a favorite snack and spread in many American households, and for good reason. Traditional hummus is made by blending cooked chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans) with tahini (sesame seed paste), lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and seasonings to create a smooth, flavorful dip. Chickpeas are one of several foods known as… more
The Med Way: Step 1 – Changing Your Protein (6/30/2026) - The Mediterranean Diet (the Med Way) is a long-standing, recommended approach for balanced eating that supports optimal health and chronic disease risk reduction. A key focus for the Med Way is choosing whole-food sources and expanding protein options to include plant-based foods like beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, peas, and even vegetables like broccoli.… more
National Dairy Month: Nourishing Bodies, Supporting Wellness (6/30/2026) - June is National Dairy Month, a time to recognize the important role dairy foods can play in a healthy eating pattern. Dairy products provide a variety of essential nutrients that support growth, bone health, muscle function, and overall wellness. What Is Dairy? Dairy foods and beverages come primarily from cows, goats, and sheep. Common dairy… more
Protecting Pets from New World Screwworm Webinar (6/30/2026) - As concerns continue to grow over the threat of New World screwworm, UF/IFAS Extension Holmes County is partnering with UF/IFAS Extension Walton and Escambia Counties to offer a free educational webinar to help pet owners prepare, recognize the risks, protect their animals, and know what to do if an infestation is suspected. The live webinar,… more
Phase III “Extreme” Water Shortage Restrictions Extended Through October 1 (6/29/2026) - Last week, the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) voted to extend the current Phase III “Extreme” Water Shortage Restrictions through October 1, 2026.Before officials enacted these restrictions earlier this year, we had not seen a Phase III shortage since 2017. Back then, the district called it the "driest dry season in 103 years." However,… more
Retirement Wellness Start with Movement (6/26/2026) - Many people spend years preparing financially for retirement, contributing to a 401(k), investing wisely, and planning for long‑term financial wellness. But retirement readiness isn’t only about money. Physical wellness matters just as much, especially as age‑related conditions begin to appear. One of the most common is arthritis, which affects a large portion of the American… more
Enjoy a Safe and Healthy Summer (6/26/2026) - Summer is finally here! It's the season of family vacations, backyard barbecues, picnics in the park, days at the beach, gardening projects, and plenty of time spent outdoors. While summer is full of opportunities to make memories with family and friends, it's also important to keep safety in mind. A few simple precautions can help… more
The Heartbeat of Hillsborough: Celebrating Our 2026 4-H Award Winners (6/25/2026) - Every thriving community has a heartbeat—driven by people who show up, step out of their comfort zones, and quietly work behind the scenes to make the world around them a better place. In 4-H, we talk a lot about the four H’s: Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. But these aren't just words we pledge at… more
Florida Land Steward Update, June 26, 2026 (6/24/2026) - SUMMER DOWN TIME AND TO-DOs Hope you have a chance to slow down a bit during this time of year. I enjoy cooler weather, but I’ve come to embrace the aura of Florida summer – the chorus of cicadas rising in the morning, bright sun blazing directly overhead, heavy wet air, billowing afternoon clouds, hungry… more
Florida Land Steward Update, June 26, 2026 (6/24/2026) - SUMMER DOWN TIME AND TO-DOs Hope you have a chance to slow down a bit during this time of year. I enjoy cooler weather, but I’ve come to embrace the aura of Florida summer – the chorus of cicadas rising in the morning, bright sun blazing directly overhead, heavy wet air, billowing afternoon clouds, hungry… more
The Microbiology of Microgreens: Unearthing the Nutrition, Benefits and Science (6/24/2026) - Quick answer Microgreens are young vegetable greens harvested shortly after germination when nutrient density and phytochemical production are especially high. Research has shown some microgreens contain significantly higher concentrations of antioxidants and bioactive compounds than mature vegetables. Their biology also connects directly to microbiology, gut health, plant-microbe interactions and NASA-supported food systems research. Keep reading… more
Two Reasons Your Homeowner’s Insurance May Not Cover Hurricane Damage (6/22/2026) - It’s hurricane season, and before a storm is on the radar, it’s a good time to review your homeowner’s insurance policy and understand what it covers. Many homeowners impacted by Helene and Milton had damage claims denied. According to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, a significant number were denied because the insurance policy deductible… more
A Slice of History: Cakes (6/22/2026) - Sugar, fat, eggs, and flour are probably the most common ingredients for any dessert, including (most) cakes. There is often a fine line in baking between cake, bread, and even cookies. The actual word “cake” was borrowed from the Old Norse word “kaka,” which is also related to the modern English term “cook.” Meanwhile, the… more
Communicating Before, During and After a Hurricane – A PIE Center Lunch and Learn (6/22/2026) - The UF/IFAS Center for Public Issues Education in Agriculture and Natural Resources, in collaboration with Florida Extension Disaster Education Network, will host a virtual Lunch and Learn on Jun. 23, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. EST on Communicating Before, During, and After hurricanes. Effective communication is essential in disaster management, and knowing communication frameworks and approaches… more
Watermelon: Summer’s Juicy Treat (6/19/2026) - A slice of juicy watermelon hits the spot on a hot summer day. A member of the squash and gourd family, watermelon is loaded with lycopene, an antioxidant which gives the melon that bright red color. Other nutrients include the amino acid citrulline, vitamins A, B6, and C, along with potassium, magnesium, thiamin, and phosphorus.… more
Summer Personal Finance Webinars (6/16/2026) - All are 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. EST. Cost = Free July 8, Trump Accounts 101: The Who, The What, and The How We will discuss Trump Accounts, a new tax-advantaged retirement savings account for children. We'll talk about how they're structured, who qualifies, and how to open one. We’ll also review the financial considerations… more
Careers Beyond Titles (6/16/2026) - Co-written by Angelika Keene What Do You Want to Do? One of the first questions adults ask students is, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It sounds simple, but for many people, it feels overwhelming. The problem is that we often focus on job titles instead of who we are as… more
Ten Cow-Calf Management Decisions That Pay Dividends (6/16/2026) - The cattle business is full of decisions! Some have a small impact, while others influence herd productivity and profitability for years. During a presentation on applied cow-calf management systems, University of Florida Animal Sciences professor Dr. Todd Thrift outlined several management practices that consistently separate successful operations from average ones. While every ranch is different,… more
Every Count Counts: Why Local Pollinator Observations Matter (6/16/2026) - When people think of scientific research, they often picture Bunsen burners, beakers, and scientists in white lab coats hunched over microscopes. But some of the most valuable data comes from community members observing the world around them. The Great Florida Pollinator Census is a perfect example of the citizen science in action. Pollinators like bees,… more
Beyond the Classroom: My Experience Interning with UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County (6/15/2026) - My name is Evelyn Spencer, and I worked as an Environmental Education and Outreach Intern in the fall of 2025 and spring of 2026 with the UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County Sustainability Program. I graduated in May 2026 from the University of South Florida Patel College of Global Sustainability, and this was an amazing opportunity… more