Florida agriculture has a significant role to play in meeting the food and commodity production needs of a growing world population and an equally important role in environmental stewardship. This course will discuss emerging issues that are likely to impact Florida farmlands and the Florida agricultural community, particularly those issues affecting the use and management of agricultural lands and water and the impact of those practices on wetlands, water supply, water resources, and conservation. Expect the panelists to discuss recent state and federal legislation affecting agriculture in Florida, emerging topics in best management practices (BMPs) for agriculture, such as advanced water quality BMPs, and new approaches for obtaining both binding and non-binding determinations on whether your activities on agricultural lands need an Environmental Resource Permit.
Part 2: Our experienced panelists will give you the latest information on water supply planning on agricultural lands, water quality and wildlife BMPs, practical tips on the binding determination process, and strategies on agricultural lands that can minimize environmental impacts, avoid permitting requirements, and manage wildlife interactions to minimize conflicts. We will even attempt to forecast the future of agriculture in the state, with new cash crop opportunities like hemp production and what that might mean to the state. Don’t miss it!
Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson
Susan Stephens is a shareholder in the Tallahassee office of Stearns Weaver Miller and has been practicing environmental & natural resources and administrative law for 30 years. Susan is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in State & Federal Government & Administrative Practice. She... Read More →
Valerie Seidel is Principal Economist of The Balmoral Group, an economic and engineering firm focused on public policy, socioeconomic impacts, and design within infrastructure, water resources, and the environment.
General Counsel, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Steven Lamar Hall, General CounselFlorida Department of Agriculture and Consumer ServicesSteven grew up on his family's farm outside of Malone, Florida. He attended the University of Florida (Go Gators!) where he received a bachelor’s degree in Food and Resource Economics with a... Read More →
