#agriculture, Passion Projects

Farm-City Week: Roots That Still Run Deep

Farm-City Week celebrates the bond between rural and urban communities in Manatee County, highlighting its agricultural heritage. Despite a decline in the number of farms, the average size has increased, indicating consolidation. Challenges like rising costs and taxes threaten local agriculture, but community support, educational programs, and awareness can help sustain this vital industry. Local efforts are essential for food security and preserving agricultural tradition.

#agriculture, Passion Projects, Places to Visit

The People’s Plot

Grassroots initiatives in Manatee County have gained momentum following the election of new commissioners in November 2024. Despite state interference limiting local governance, residents are actively engaged in community projects like the transformation of Mixon Farms into an agricultural education hub. The site aims to foster entrepreneurship and sustainability, reflecting the county's evolving identity amidst significant growth and budget increases.

Passion Projects

The Worries About Water

What can the City of Bradenton do with 24 plus inches of rain in one months’ time frame?  Processing it to avoid polluted discharges doesn’t seem to be an option, with 25 million gallons of unsafe waters being sent into the Manatee River.  Manatee County, the city of Bradenton and Sarasota counties struggle to manage… Continue reading The Worries About Water

Passion Projects

Heat Island Effect

There is no question Florida is being built out at an astronomical rate.  The US Census Bureau estimates Manatee county grew around 10% from 2020 to 2023 which would be roughly 45,000 new residents in that time.  With building, development and land sales being some of the highest monetary generating industries, there are a lot… Continue reading Heat Island Effect