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Farmers face challenges and not just from Hurricane Irma

Posted at 5:56 PM, Nov 30, 2017
and last updated 2017-11-30 18:12:57-05

The agriculture industry is one of the biggest drivers of our economy, but it's also facing challenges and we're not just talking impacts from Hurricane Irma.

For years farmers and growers have dealt with a number of issues.

In Belle Glade, Daniel Cavaso is having a good harvest despite Hurricane Irma.

However, he still has his challenges. "Every year gets tougher," said Cavaso.

One of them is finding workers. There's just no interest from younger people.

"The average farmer is 65-years-old. There has to be someone taking over these jobs," said Cavaso.

Dan Richey at Riverfront Packing Company is dealing with citrus greening, a disease affecting the industry.

"We're asking for protection that is due to our inability to protect our borders," said Richey.

Florida's Ag Commissioner continues to push for federal relief in the wake of Hurricane Irma.