On July 13, Florida NAMA and Southeast AgNet hosted a luncheon in conjunction with Florida Fertilizer and Agrichemical Association’s annual meeting in Naples, Florida.  Lisa Lochridge, Director of Public Affairs for the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association, spoke to the group in her role as the 2011 President of the Ag Institute of Florida.  The Ag Institute promotes the value of Florida agriculture, which produces over 280 different commodities.

Lisa shared how the Institute has revitalized its efforts in educating, encouraging and empowering agriculture businesses and organizations in Florida to market, promote and communicate more effectively on behalf of producers and the industry.  The Ag Institute partnered with the University of Florida’s Public Issues Education Center to research consumers’ perceptions of commonly used terms and graphics – with surprising results.  The results of this ongoing research will lead to a better understanding of how best to deliver messages that matter most to consumers.  More information on the research can be found at their site, aiflorida.org.