Agriculture Florida's agricultural industry is among the most important in the nation. It ranks first in citrus production, second in the production of vegetables and horticultural products, and fourth in all crops. Florida's citrus sales, which were over $1.6 billion in 1998, account for about 60 percent of total US citrus production. Global warming could bring substantial changes and challenges to Florida's farmers. For example:
In areas where climate becomes drier in the future, the production of cotton, commercial fruits and vegetables, and sugarcane may decline without increased irrigation.
The fertilization effect from increased levels of carbon dioxide in the air will increase plant productivity only if the amount of water used for irrigation also increases sufficiently.
Citrus production may decrease moderately with global warming over the next century.
The industry might also have to deal with increased pest incidence and, more importantly, increased incidence of droughts.
Citrus production may decrease moderately with global warming over the next century.
UNION OF CONCERNED SCIENTISTS