Managing our food resources in a responsible way

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services responsibilities are so broad, that chances are, you’ve been involved with the agency whether you realize it or not. FDACS is responsible for supporting and promoting Florida agriculture, protecting the environment, safeguarding consumers, and ensuring the safety and wholesomeness of food. The state’s Commissioner of Agriculture and first woman to hold the position is Nikki Fried, who was elected by Florida voters in 2018.  

So, what exactly does this look like? Here are some of the activities FDACS is involved in as it relates to our environment.  

• Protecting livestock, honey bees and crop plants from pests and diseases. 
• Helping farmers implement best management practices to conserve water and prevent water pollution. 
• Assisting businesses and residents in the safe and proper use of pesticides. 
• Managing state forest land for multiple uses, including timber, wildlife habitat and recreation. 
• Fighting wildfires to protect lives and property. 
• Providing permitting for county fair events and inspecting fair rides.  

What can FDACS help me with? 

• Filing a pest control complaint 
• Filing a pesticide complaint 
• Searching for a pesticide applicator or dealer 
• Filing a consumer complaint 
• Registering your business online 
• Learning about agricultural best management practices 
• Applying for an aquaculture lease 
• Learning about Florida’s energy and climate plan 
• Finding out about current wildfire conditions 

FDACS has several divisions with responsibilities related to our natural environment.  

• Agricultural Environmental Services – Administers regulatory programs concerning environmental and consumer protection issues. These include state mosquito control program coordination; agricultural pesticide registration, testing and regulation; pest control regulation; and feed, seed and fertilizer production inspection and testing. 
• Office of Agricultural Water Policy – Develops and implements Agricultural Best Management Practices (BMPs) addressing both water quality and water conservation. 
• Division of Aquaculture – Coordinates the development of aquaculture and regulates aquafarms. 
• Florida Forest Service – Manages over 1 million acres of state forests for multiple public uses, including timber, recreation and wildlife habitat. 
• Office of Energy– Evaluates energy-related studies, analyses and stakeholder input to recommend policies and programs that will move Florida toward a more diverse, stable and reliable energy portfolio. 
  

  How do I get involved? 

  FDACS keeps a calendar of meetings and hearings, contests and grant programs and training workshops at https://www.fdacs.gov/News-Events/Event-Calendar 

  Back to post