Sweating is a critical tool to keep horses comfortable and healthy, but chronic idiopathic anhidrosis, a dangerous equine condition can impede their natural cooling mechanism and cause performance and health issues. For the first time, UF/IFAS researchers have identified genomic markers that cause the potentially fatal condition.
The genomic mapping study gave researchers a discovery-based approach to attacking this disease, pushing aside prior assumptions about the disease’s causes. A team of UF scientists from the Genetics Institute and the College of Veterinary Medicine used genetic markers like signposts, looking for the common genomic markers found in horses that had chronic idiopathic anhidrosis disease. These genetic signposts pointed to a defective potassium transporter that likely hinders sweat function.
“Now that we know which biological pathways cause the condition, we hope to design specific strategies to intervene,” said Samantha Brooks, UF/IFAS associate professor of equine physiology. “We found that this disease has similarities to cystic fibrosis which has many drug treatments available and in development. Knowing this, we can start to consider ways to treat these horses that suffer from this condition, helping them sweat more normally over longer periods of time.”
Genetic mutations leading to cystic fibrosis also impact ion channels and gave researchers some clues as to how this particular defective potassium transporter might work. Additional research is needed to fully understand, but researchers found a change in the protein that alters when this ion transporter turns on and off. The stress of the sweat gland attempting to function with this faulty transporter likely destroys the ability to sweat over time.
“Using histology, the study of the structure of the tissues, previous work found that the sweat glands become damaged after horses live with chronic idiopathic anhidrosis over long periods of time,” Brooks said. “That is why we have not been successful in reversing the disease and restoring sweat function. Trying to sweat without a functional ion transporter could be the cause of the damage to the cells in the sweat gland. We may not be able to reverse that.”
Having chronic idiopathic anhidrosis is like driving a car on a flat tire, Brooks explained. Over time, a horse living with this disease experiences impacts to their overall health beyond the inability to sweat. Living with the condition becomes a quality-of-life concern and unlike other kinds of anhidrosis, chronic idiopathic anhidrosis cannot be solved quickly or cured.
“The saddest part about this disease is that we do not have any specific way to treat the condition right now,” Brooks said. “We can see what is happening and try to address the symptoms but because we do not know exactly what is causing it, we cannot attack the disease. So far, no supplements or medications have been tested and proven to work in a scientific study.”
Most chronic idiopathic anhidrosis horses sweat normally when they are young, but their cells accumulate damage over time, especially in extreme environments like Florida. Older horses experience more severe clinical signs such as critical hyperthermia as they lose more sweat gland function over time.
“We also do not understand the severity aspect,” said Laura Patterson Rosa, animal science graduate student and lead author of the study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. “We don’t understand why some horses have it worse than others. Even if it is chronic, the severity differs.”
In their study, scientists were surprised to find the genetic marker that causes chronic idiopathic anhidrosis is a common marker, particularly in sport-type horses like Quarter Horses and Thoroughbreds.
“I think there are a lot of horses out there struggling to live with the early stages of this disease, but owners and caretakers are just not aware of it,” Brooks said. “Long periods of hot humid weather here in the southeastern U.S aggravate the condition, increasing the chances an owner will notice the problem, but it can be just as much of an issue for horses in more northern locations. You may not think of places up north as having a hot summer that would make it hard for these horses to live, but if a horse has chronic idiopathic anhidrosis it might just take a single day in the 90s to trigger an episode of overheating. That can be very startling to their caretakers, and miserable for the horses. Especially if they live in a climate where those hot days are rare.”
The first signs of an insufficient sweat response and poor cooling are often a decrease in performance of the horse. They may get more tired during exercise, and although they still have some ability to sweat, it is often difficult for caretakers to accurately assess the volume of sweat they are producing. Over time as their ability to sweat decreases, their coats become dry and during overheating episodes it becomes more noticeable. Another side effect includes skin flakiness, rashes and an overall poor hair coat since the sweat glands are no longer distributing healthy oils to the skin.
“If your horse is one of the 2% affected by this disease, this diagnosis can be an absolute disaster,” Brooks said. “Still, I think a lot of these horses are probably out there doing the best they can. They may have slightly decreased performance at first or become a bit lazy in the summer. They are often confused for horses that have allergies, asthma, or a respiratory infection because they pant to cool themselves. At first glance, they look as if they are struggling to breath, but really, they are struggling to cool themselves.”
Horse owners who suspect their horse has chronic idiopathic anhidrosis should regularly take the animal’s temperature and consult their veterinarian. It may appear that the horse has a fever, but in reality, their basal body temperature is elevated during hot times of day because they cannot regulate it on their own through sweating. Taking their temperature regularly can be a critical component for managing this disease and can help horse owners monitor how well efforts to help keep their horse cool are working and is an important weapon to attack this disease.
“This is a very dangerous disease,” Brooks said. “We often see sweating as a nuisance, but we forget that hyperthermia can be a very life-threatening emergency. This is the time of year, when temperatures start to rise, it is important to revisit this idea and increase awareness among horse owners and caretakers about the condition.”
Horses that have not previously struggled to stay cool and perform may still have issues in the future. As the disease progresses each year and the climate continues to warm, chronic idiopathic anhidrosis is a condition that could be diagnosed more often and become worse for those horses already affected with the disease.
Looking ahead, the research team would like to launch a new project, using samples from horses with and without the disease to measure how much of this disease is due to changes in the function of this particular potassium transfer problem compared to other factors, like the environment. Developing therapies to treat or cure chronic idiopathic anhidrosis and tests to detect a propensity for the condition are future goals as well.
“In our first study we went out and found horses with chronic idiopathic anhidrosis so we would love to measure how much of this disease is due to the potassium transporter and how many horses carry this variant,” Brooks said. “The next step, in collaboration with our colleagues at the UF college of veterinary medicine and pharmacy, will be to see if we can find a compound developed for humans that alters potassium transfer, potentially offsetting the genetic factors contributing to chronic idiopathic anhidrosis in the horse, and administrable in a way that is feasible and economical in such a large animal.”
“Through directed genomic selection, we can eliminate chronic idiopathic anhidrosis from the horse population,” Rosa s
aid. “But that will take time and further research.”
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Comments:
February 24, 2022
Hi Cheryl, that's exciting! I'm certain the UF/IFAS Extension Collier County office would be happy to hear from you. You can find contact info at sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/collier.
February 21, 2022
I’m going to be staying in Collier County the month of March and am a master gardener volunteer from Franklin county in Ohio. I would like to know more about projects in your area. I have also spent some time in Vero Beach recently and installed a native planting at a residential location.
January 21, 2022
Thank you for your interest in assisting! Columbia County did participate this year and I'm sure would love to include your schools in the 2022 challenge. It will start all over again Oct. 1! https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/columbia/
January 21, 2022
I would love to help with this, I noticed that Columbia County was not listed. What do I have to do to help with this. The school I work at collected over 15,000 items for our local food bank this past October.
December 15, 2021
What a great story. All Gators are proud of Hope Hersh and wish her success. Go Gators and Go Team Space Bread!
December 9, 2021
Looks like it would be pretty tasty down here too.
December 7, 2021
Thanks Ken. You were a major influence and on how I run my eco tourism company. Keep up the good work.
December 7, 2021
Thank you Ken for all of your hard work and dedication. I was blessed to participate in your classes. Since then you have been a valuable resource when I’ve needed help or information.
December 3, 2021
Absolutely awesome. A project that makes sense. I want to see sweet rolls...
November 20, 2021
Fascinating guy to talk to. He is knowledgeable and entertaining which makes learning from him interesting and fun!
November 11, 2021
Hi Kristopher, thanks for the question! You can find the contact information and hours for the Duval County office at http://duval.ifas.ufl.edu/.
November 11, 2021
Two neighborhood based organizations with community gardens in New Town and North Riverside are looking for assistance with design and horticulture. Can you advise how we can make an appointment with Jax staff to get the ball rolling? Thanks in advance.
October 20, 2021
Very informative and the archival photos are great! NFREC has a wealth of historical resources. Thank you!
October 4, 2021
Thank you. Much appreciated. Dr. Chouvenc is available for interviews.
October 4, 2021
This ia extraordiarily intriguing! In terms of evolution, a fascinating phenomenon although its sigificance yet to be elucidated. A fine piece!
July 10, 2021
I am a resident of Texas, a lifelong wannabe farmer, this software is one of the most useful tools imaginable. The people of the Great State of Florida should be proud of the work presented here!!!!!!!
June 25, 2021
very helpful article . thanks for sharing
June 24, 2021
My ottb Halo who is now 16 years old has been suffering for 11 years. I have tried every product on the market. Plus acupuncture and now I have him in a stall with an AC during the day and turned out at night. He's managing well but I'm not able to ride him much during the hotter months. I live near Tampa Bay. I would love to move him us north and I have trying to find him a home off and on for years with no luck. I'd love to get him into a study if possible.
June 24, 2021
I have a horse that is 18 years old that suffers from this condition horribly. Every summer I am afraid he won't make it through the Arkansas summers. If you would like to use him for any research and could travel to Arkansas for it, you are more than welcome. We do everything we can to help keep him comfortable and with us.
June 23, 2021
My gelding, Dashing Big Red, developed Anhidrosis when he was 8 years. old. He was a registered QH but the bloodlines were 50% Thoroughbred. He raced until he was approximately 5.5 years old. He died at 18 years. I tried dark beer, One AC, Signal. None worked. An old race remedy helped more than any - sugar, lite salt and salt. I free leased him out so that he would be doing arena work instead of trail riding. I got him back a number of years later. He would sweat some on his neck near his mane, under his legs and flanks. His sire was Dashing Val, by Dash for Cash. His dam was Ma Hemp, by Hemp Myers out of Comin Honi.
June 23, 2021
I have my Eventer that is anhidrosis. I have had him for 5 years and we successfully compete Beginner Novice and Novice. I have an ice regime that I do after each phase that helps him. Also the best thing I do for him is keep him competition fit. I do ride at all times of the day as I may have to compete in it at some point. I have tried EVERYTHING on the market and the only thing that works for a 2 week period is acupuncture. Although it is crazy expensive. So I will be doing it myself for him. Im not sure why the same drug that is used for humans couldn't be tried on horses as we use many of the same drugs as a human. If there is ever a study to do with those drugs in mind I would like to try them for my guy. Thank you for trying to find out how to help these horses. Lisa
June 23, 2021
Are y’all working on a future test to see if a breeding horse carries the genetic marker for anhydrosis?
June 23, 2021
We need to have a test that can be done as part of a pre-purchase exam. Having gone through this with my Morgan mare and making the difficult decisions to manage her care and untimely getting her out and of the state of Fl...it would have been so helpful to know prior to purchasing her.
May 17, 2021
Thank you for your comment and question. According to Dr. Czyz, his lab has not done any work with yeast, and yeast is a component of SCOBY.
May 17, 2021
Great news Samantha Murray! My spirit believes in it. :) Congrats to Dr. Czyz and his team! Would you mind tell us ... Did they ever try some scientific essay with kombucha SCOBY? Thank's in advance!
April 25, 2021
I have experienced this amazing phenomenon while birding one day. I came across other birders who where using a a recording device playing the sound of an Eastern Screech owl being mobbed by a group of Tufted Titmouse and Black-capped Chickadees. I was amazed at how many different species of birds came in from different areas.
April 22, 2021
Do they sell organic local fruits and vegetables at wickham park farmers market
April 16, 2021
Baby I just read this with tears running down my cheeks to Daddy he said why didn’t you say anything about him I had to laugh! Thank you I love you so much
February 27, 2021
Love you Mommy!
February 27, 2021
Awesome information about you as well as your family roots.
February 27, 2021
Sandra has an amazing capacity for compassion and mercy, within her career and her personal life. Always willing to lend a hand and help someone in need. She is a strong African American woman who believes in unity and peace. I admire her strength and commitment.
February 25, 2021
I am thoroughly proud of this young African American man I have known him the majority of his life Highly recommend him and esteem his work in society toward the betterment of human life. Della Wheeler
February 18, 2021
Jesus in your heart, excellence in your bloodline, knowledge in your head, and Black Girl Magic...well that's EVERYTHING!!! Thank you for representing well and blazing a positive trail for others to follow!!
February 18, 2021
Correction to previous post. So very proud of you!
February 17, 2021
Correction to previous post. So very proud of you.!
February 16, 2021
Loved the article!
February 16, 2021
Awesome Awesome. So very pride of you, the work you’re doing and the beautiful young woman you’ve become. Congratulations.
February 15, 2021
I am so proud of your and your continuous stand in faith for the youth that have cross your path. Thank you for your support and spirit of excellence and knowledge in all you have done. Baker
February 14, 2021
You are a blessing and have been for many youth and adults. Very proud of you and expecting to hear and read much more of your experiences and compliments
February 14, 2021
I had the pleasure of spending a week or two with Dr. Lloyd studying Fausis reticulata at my home in the western highland rim of Tennessee some years ago. I would like to think we became friends. I certainly gained a great respect for the man, his passion and his intellect. We spoke on the phone and through email from time to time, but I never had the privilege and the gift of his presence again. I very much would like to purchase a copy of his book, 'A Naturalist's Long Walk...' I think it may again be like being in the woods in the dark with my friend and mentor. Please let me hear from you with whatever you can offer. Sincerely, Jim Singleton
February 13, 2021
Awesomeness, Dr. BT❣️
February 13, 2021
Dr. Tennille, This is incredibly beautiful! Girl we can see that you truly worked hard for it, and are representing in a BIG way. You have established such a great legacy that definitely makes our entire family so proud. You are our trailblazer, so Keep up the awesome job that you're doing . Aunt Gwen
February 12, 2021
Great job!
February 12, 2021
You continue to be a role model and a light in a very dark world. You continue to be a trailblazer and focal point of the tip of a modern day spear that pierces the veils of female inequalities in the work force. If you persist in your endeavors, you will always be rewarded with the blessings of God! Thank you for your service and support.
January 13, 2021
thanks for this
November 9, 2020
Hi Lois, our experts say the only really way to protect monarch caterpillars from predators would be to raise them indoors. Thanks again for your question.
November 6, 2020
Hi Theresa, thank you for your question. You can find recommendations for pollinator friendly plants for Florida in these two UF/IFAS Extension publications: Butterfly Gardening in Florida A Guide to Planting Wildflower Enhancements in Florida
November 6, 2020
Hi Lynette, we suggest contacting the Vermont Extension Master Gardener program for recommendations on pollinator friendly plants for your area. Here's the link to their help page: https://www.uvm.edu/extension/mastergardener/helpline
November 6, 2020
Hi Lois, thanks for your question. We're asking our experts about it and will get back to you.
November 6, 2020
Hi Tammie, thanks for your question. We recommend contacting Laura Vasquez (lavasquez@ufl.edu) at the UF/IFAS Extension Miami-Dade County office for recommendations. Or, call the office at (305) 248-3311.
November 6, 2020
Hi. I live in S. FL (Miami-Dade) and we are having problems finding native milkweed to feed our Monarch caterpillars. Is there any suggestions on where we can find nurseries that have them? Thank you.
October 31, 2020
Nayda's influence and impact has been national and beyond. I had the benefit of working with her on various USDA/NIFA CYFAR projects in Georgia, one of many state CYFAR projects that Nayda coordinated and strengthened. Nayda is still remembered fondly as a faculty member at the University of Georgia, more than 30 years ago. I am fortunate to consider her a mentor and friend.
October 29, 2020
My mother-in-law is Effie Stone Rolfs' grand-daughter, Effie Hargrave Kirby. She is 91 and lives in La Crosse.
October 28, 2020
How does one control lizards from eating the catapillars? I have counted 40 plus catapillars on a bush in the evening, and the next Morning there are none. This is happening all over my acre garden.
October 22, 2020
I am so moved by this organization as a Women in Agriculture. I pioneered growing Wine Grapes in 1976 and I was the first sole proprietor, female, to get a farm loan 1986. I hold high standards for Women in Agriculture and my mentor is Dee Ann Connor. I was unaware of her dedication until now.
October 22, 2020
Hi Don, thanks for your questions. Here's some information from Jaret Daniels: "The general recommendation for tropical milkweed in Florida is to cut it to the ground in late Oct/early Nov to help prevent winter breeding and disruption of the migration. This stands for folks living north of Lake Okeechobee. South Florida is more complicated and already has a non-migratory population and winter breeding. Regarding other plants for pollinators and monarchs, the list is extensive. Here are a few resources: Butterfly Gardening in Florida and A Guide to Planting Wildflower Enhancements in Florida."
October 22, 2020
what other plants can be used locally for monarchs and other pollinators? Do I need to worry about local monarchs migrating to Mexico and cut back my milkweed planes some time in the fall or winter? Is there a good reference (IFAS publication or similar) for raising monarchs and other butterflies?
October 21, 2020
great article; thank you for sharing
October 19, 2020
It would be very helpful & list the various flowering plants used in this study. Being from Vermont, close to the Canadian border, are there any similar lists for areas much farther north than Florida?
October 17, 2020
I thought you would give suggestions on which wild flowers to grow for migratory
October 16, 2020
Sure is! The UF/IFAS Extension Okeechobee County office is located at 458 US Hwy 98 North in Okeechobee (34972). If you need other information, here is the office's website: http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/okeechobee/. Thank you for your interest!
October 2, 2020
A wonderful charitable way to feed the hungry- maybe save a life today! My daughter lives in FL . I know she will donate. She loves ppl.
October 1, 2020
Is there an extension office in or near Okeechobee County?
October 1, 2020
Hi Sandra! Thanks for your interest. The UF/IFAS Extension Marion County office is located at 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd in Ocala. Here is their website if you need any other contact information: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/marion/.
October 1, 2020
Collection locations in Ocala?
September 15, 2020
I totally understand the article our Son went thru a bout of Chemo for tx and the article was fascinating to me... Thank You
September 15, 2020
Very interesting article. Awesome
August 17, 2020
Hi MS Malagday. Sorry for the delay, I am unable to find your original request. In the meantime, I will forward your inquiry to Dr. Alan Chambers.
August 16, 2020
Did you ever hear an answer? I would love to try to grow one? Thanks
July 15, 2020
Thank you for reaching out to UF/IFAS. We are very excited about this opportunity to continue 4-H programs. If you’d like information about supporting youth and families through 4-H in your community, please contact Caylin Hilton with Florida 4-H at grow4H@ifas.ufl.edu or 352-392-5432. To get involved with 4-H in your area, contact your local UF/IFAS Extension office by visiting http://florida4h.org/getinvolved/. For more information about UF/IFAS Extension Broward County 4-H’s work, please visit https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/broward/broward-4-h-youth-development/
July 15, 2020
Thank you for reaching out to UF/IFAS . At this time, due to COVID restrictions, the children are unable to meet in groups. The 4-H agent, however, is still working virtually on continuing the program.
July 15, 2020
Hi Alan My wife and I have just moved from Canada to Florida and looking for land to purchase for farming and are interested in many of the new initiatives you are exploring especially vanilla. We want to grow a few as well to get more familiar while we are locking in land etc and a plan here to farm the natural way. Can you and are you able to let us purchase some plants to try or direct us to the right area? We also could and are willing to assist you in testing etc if you wish. Let us know please and excited to here more
July 14, 2020
Thank you for reaching out to UF/IFAS. Unfortunately, this was designed for Palm Beach residents only. The UF/IFAS Extension Office did not have the same arrangement. However, there are many online virtual camps that you can take advantage and that are available from any one of the counties. Please log on to http://florida4h.org/programsandevents_/4-h-adventures/ If you wish to reach the Broward County 4-H site, please go to http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/broward/
July 14, 2020
Hello Paul, thank you for reaching out to UF IFAS. The UF/IFAS Extension Brevard County office covers and offers programs for the City of Melbourne. Here is some information with a contact number. The website can be reached by logging on to https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/brevard/ The Extension Direction is Elizabeth Shepherd who can be reached via email at bshephar@ufl.edu. If you wish to call the office, please call Tel: (321) 633-1702 but please keep in mind that due to COVID restrictions, there may be some schedule conflicts.
July 14, 2020
Hello Sharon, so sorry for the delay. Let me put you in touch with Lorna Bravo, the UF/IFAS Broward County Extension Director. Her phone 954-756-8529 lbravo1@ufl.edu
June 8, 2020
I work in Palm Beach but live in Broward. Can my kids still get a take home kit? I can’t find this for Broward County extension office.
May 29, 2020
Are the children still allowed to meet at the Community Garden?
May 29, 2020
Awesome news for our community! 4H greatly contribute to balance life with exceptional family-oriented leadership programs. Thank you Glick Philanthropies.
April 18, 2020
Is it possible to join the hydroponics class?
April 2, 2020
Who is the UF/IFAS point of contact for the Melbourne, Florida area? Thanks.
March 31, 2020
HI Jeffrey, I am forwarding your request to Lorna Bravo, the extension director for UF/IFAS Extension Broward who will be happy to assist you.
March 29, 2020
I read this article fully regarding the difference of most up-to-date and preceding technologies, it's amazing article.
March 26, 2020
Where can I get the plans to make those bucket planters?
March 19, 2020
Outstanding! Congratulations!
March 1, 2020
Good Morning! We are very excited about this new research on Vanilla Planifiolia in Florida. We are landowners interested in starting a Vanillery . Our la nd offers the shade, humidity and natural structures that support orchid habitat at a large scale. Please reply this comment at chamilton21@gmail.com Looking forward to hear from you or Mr Chambers
February 15, 2020
Hi, I am a retired physician and am very intrigued with the idea of growing vanilla in Florida. I was thinking of setting up a greenhouse in my area, Fernandina Beach to start, a small business. I think vanilla growing would be do-able here in a green house to protect the plants in the winter. I have been to Tahiti and visited a vanilla farm; it has interested me ever since, and I have made extract with the beans I brought home. It is far superior to any store bought. I was wondering how I would be able to procure enough cuttings to start my business? Are you in contact with a supplier for your ventures? I would appreciate any help you could give me in this area. Thank you for any help you can provide.
February 12, 2020
Hello, Thirty years ago when I was coming back to Florida from Hawaii I had to leave behind a vanilla orchid I was given. I hated it. I knew I couldn't and wouldn't smuggle it back here. I have wanted one ever since. Is there a way I could buy one? I live in Fort Walton which is more humid than there and gets very cold at times, so I would build the orchid it's own house if necessary. Please contact me when you have time. cperkins1000@gmail.com Cheryl P. Malagday 40 Windham Ave. #40 Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32548
February 10, 2020
Hi Tanya, I will forward your question to Dr. Brym as well as other scientists at UF. In the meantime, please feel free to reach out to me directly. Lourdes Rodriguez rodriguezl@ufl.edu 954-577-6363
February 10, 2020
If this should escape could parts of the plants be toxic to horses? I asked our ag agent awhile back and we discovered conflicting reports. Thanks
February 5, 2020
So sorry for the delay. Let me get working on that request for you.
January 14, 2020
That's great! You can sign up for the course here:
January 14, 2020
I'am interested
January 13, 2020
I have a huge hive of honey bees you are welcome to in Port Charlotte.
January 3, 2020
Are there Master Naturalist classes, and volunteer opportunities, available in Leon County?
December 22, 2019
Wow, I would love to have cuttings to try in my location. I have a few cuttings that I started this past September but am interested it what you are doing.
December 21, 2019
I have been growing the orchid for 2 years, no flowers as of yet...excited fir my first bloom.
November 14, 2019
You can make a pre-sale order. See details: https://sites.google.com/site/ufhortclub/poinsettia-sale
November 14, 2019
Is it possible to purchase December 3rd. There is a teachers luncheon December 4 that I’m responsible for flowers. I’ve purchased the last three years and have been extremely pleased with the plants and would live to share with the teachers at Oak Hall School.
October 30, 2019
Brilliant idea! I asked out sons advisor for a mentor for him! It would have really made a difference and still could! Great minds think alike!
September 13, 2019
Denise is a wonderful person - fabulous mother, volunteer and so many other jobs she has. I am pleased to have worked with her. She always has a smile on her face and a good thing to say about people. Thanks for highlighting this wonderful 4-H volunteer.
November 29, 2018
Juanita Popenoe, I was a citrus grower,killed by greening. Located at 7317 Crystal Beach Road, Winter Haven, Florida, just south of your area and a little warmer. Pushing out last of dead citrus now. Replanting with avocados, Choquette, Monroe and Oro Negro. Now 2500 in ground half 1 year old and half 2 years old. Will have 35 to 40 acres of avocados. They will be cold protected by micro jet irrigation. Advantages: They are hard when mature to be picked, will not bruise and can be handled like fresh citrus, picked, processed, packed and sold by Dundee Citrus Growers Association ( I am a member). They have a shelf life of 3 to 4 weeks. You might be able to grow cold hardy varieties in your area. I purchased the trees from Heather Teatig at Pine Island Nursery. She is very knowledgeable about Avocados. I will be interested in having more growers in this area to build up the market. Howard C Lucas 560 Avenue K, SE, Winter Haven ,Florida 33880 ( mailing address) email. hclmdeyes@aol.com office phone 863-294-2450 cell phone 863-412-4961
April 3, 2018
You’re a special lady and a wonderful dairy advocate! So happy to see you featured...congrats and thanks for all you do to promote the beneficial aspects of women in dairy!
March 31, 2018
Awesome article and Colleen is an awesome lady! I taught with Colleen's mom, and watched Colleen growing up. She was in my daughter's class at school. They were on the same softball team for several years. So glad to see she is doing well. I am sure that the students that Colleen teaches will be well taught!
January 4, 2018
It is a very interesting news. Since especially, Ethiopia has a huge livestock population but the income from these livestock population is very far below the expected. The greatest problem in addition to genetics and disease, "Lack of good-quality, year-round feed for livestock" is a very critical which was mentioned and described above. Therefore the project will bring a good insight for the rural poor smallholders' livestock keepers through conducting research, extension and technology transfer.
December 4, 2017
Where can I purchase this book
September 20, 2017
A tour of storm damage in the heavily wooded Orange Park area revealed that about 95% of the downed trees were laurel oaks (often mis-identified as the less common water oak which has similar properties). There was almost no damage to the much stronger live oaks and few other species came down. Laurel oaks, especially large, old ones, are much more susceptible to storm damage than most other large trees and homeowners should be aware of this. They are prone to breaking off in any part of the trunk, have weak root systems and easily shed branches in strong wind. They are very heavy and can do a lot of damage. Even worse, they are subject to internal rot in the roots, trunk and branches which often remains invisible until the tree breaks off or comes down. They are prone to rot in the roots and hollowing in the stump that can result in the tree falling down even in the absence of wind. I had one large tree and several large limbs come down that way and have seen others fall with no wind. Homeowners take heed.
September 10, 2017
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!! I am quite familiar with your extension sites and I am very pleased with the great knowledge that you share. UF is the best!!! So let's here it ! GO GATORS!! Thank you again for all your hard work & the knowledge you share. God Bless and stay safe~
August 10, 2017
Hi Barbra, Thanks for your message! If you'd like to participate in the Air Potato Patrol, please go to https://airpotatobeetle.com/.
August 1, 2017
I have air potato vines at my house on the Aucilla River in Taylor County. I have not been able to attend any class on the problem even tho I am a MG for Leon Co Extension. I will be glad to report, participate, help in any project to get rid of them. I have two emails, one listed below and the other is barbra@fairclothagency.com
July 12, 2017
Hi, Tom, thanks for getting in touch. You can request beetles online at http://bcrcl.ifas.ufl.edu/airpotatofiles/airpotatoforms.shtml. Since you're in Polk County, you'll fill out a request for Area 2. Let us know if you have any other questions!
July 7, 2017
Are air potato beetles available for Polk County? We have had an ongoing problem along our property line in south Lakeland for several years and, with the recent rains, the plant is again overtaking our native vegetation, including elephant ears and even oak/camphor trees to the extent the smaller plants are all dying. I contacted the City's Parks & Recreation Department about acquiring beetles and was advised to contact you myself rather than through their office. I can send you pictures of our damage if necessary, but would definitely appreciate your timely assistance. In addition to my personal email (below) you may contact me at 863-398-1079. Thank you.
June 26, 2017
Hi Laurie, Thanks for writing! You can request more beetles here. We also have a new citizen science program for those interested in helping scientist control air potato. You can find out more at https://airpotatobeetle.com/.
June 21, 2017
2 years ago, I registered for and received the red beetles to help control the air potato vines in my yard. I am wondering if I can get more of the beetles through your co-op. I live in Seminole, FL and the beetles helped control the vines but we no longer have the beetles in the yard and need more. Thank you. Laurie
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