Center for Sustainable Agricultural Excellence and Conservation

The Joys of Returning Home! Working for my hometown is a dream come true. The opportunity to make a tangible difference in a field I have dedicated my life to is incredibly fulfilling. Sustainable agriculture and integrated farming have always been my passion, and now I have the chance to share my knowledge and experiences directly with my community. From building innovative aquaponics systems to promoting climate-smart commodities, I am excited to contribute to the growth and resilience of our local agricultural practices. The journey is about giving back, empowering our communities, and fostering sustainable change. I look forward to collaborating with fellow farmers, community leaders, and policymakers to create a brighter, more sustainable future for us all. There’s so much to share, and I’m eager to embark on this journey together. #SustainableAgriculture #IntegratedFarming #CommunityImpact #ClimateSmart #Aquaponics #ReGenAgriculture #HometownPride

🌍 Reflecting on My Second Week in Kenya 🌍 The second week in Kenya has been truly inspiring. I’ve had the privilege to meet with agriculture, education, and climate ministers, and together, we have formed plans that reflect a true commitment to the communities our partners have been nurturing for years. What has truly amazed me is witnessing the youth of this country devote themselves to building sustainable change for their future. Their energy and dedication are remarkable and give me hope for a better tomorrow. Key Takeaways: 1. Stand with the locals and listen to their needs. Understanding the unique challenges and opportunities from their perspective is crucial. 2. Follow through on commitments. Too often, promises are made but never fulfilled. It’s essential to provide consistent support and return to see projects through to fruition. I keep dreaming of a world where we all listen, really listen—to understand and to act. Together, we can create a sustainable future. 🌱 #Sustainability #Kenya #Agriculture #Education #ClimateAction #YouthEmpowerment #CommunityEngagement

Beginning Our Journey to Kenya: Building Sustainable Farms and Alliances We are excited to announce the start of our transformative trip to Kenya, where our mission is to build more farms, meet with Agricultural Ministers, form crucial alliances, and conduct thorough assessments. Our objectives are clear: 1. Farm Development: Establishing sustainable farms that not only produce food but also respect and enhance the environment. 2. Ministerial Meetings: Engaging with Kenya’s Agricultural Ministers to discuss policies, share knowledge, and strengthen international cooperation. 3. Strategic Alliances: Forming partnerships with local and international organizations to ensure long-term success and sustainability. 4. Comprehensive Assessments: Evaluating current agricultural practices and identifying opportunities for improvement through scientific and thoughtful actions. By integrating innovative agricultural techniques and sustainable practices, we aim to change the hunger and climate landscape, not only in Kenya but across the globe. This journey reinforces our belief that through collaboration and science, we can achieve significant and lasting change. Together, we can create a future where food security and environmental sustainability go hand in hand. Let’s continue to work towards a world where thoughtful, scientific action drives positive change. #SustainableAgriculture #ClimateAction #GlobalPartnerships #FoodSecurity #InnovationInFarming #KenyaTrip #Agroecology #IntegratedAgriculture #ReGenAgriculture #ClimateSmartCommodities

I am thrilled to share my journey since I have joined the City of Jacksonville as the Manager of Urban Agriculture, Agroecology, and Land Use Policy. This is an incredibly exciting time as we work to expand our agricultural footprint and bring more acreage and farms to Duval County. Our goal is ambitious: to grow by 3x over the next three years to meet the food needs of our community. To achieve this, we need the collective efforts of all gardeners, farmers, producers, cattlemen, watermen, aquaculturists, composters, regenerative agriculture soil makers, poultry and swine producers, ranchers, extension agents, teachers, and everyone else passionate about sustainable agriculture. Join us in this movement to ensure food security and promote sustainable farming practices in Duval County. Let’s work together to build a resilient and thriving agricultural community. #UrbanAgriculture #Agroecology #SustainableFarming #FoodSecurity #CommunityGrowth #DuvalCounty

Feeling incredibly honored to be featured in today's issue of Evolve Magazine, highlighting the impactful work we do in sustainable agriculture! https://lnkd.in/gqAvkPRh #UrbanAgriculture #SustainableFarming #Ecology #LandUsePolicy #NewBeginnings

As an Executive Director deeply entrenched in the evolution of sustainable agriculture, my expertise spans across economic and workforce development, climate-resilient farming practices, and controlled environment agriculture. Leading the Center for Sustainable Agricultural Excellence and Conservation and collaborating closely with people everywhere in the world, I have been at the forefront of pioneering integrated, regenerative agriculture systems, such as aquaponics and climate-smart commodities, that dovetail environmental stewardship with economic vitality. Originating from a humble farming background, I understood early on the indispensable role agriculture plays not only in feeding the world but in sustaining its economies. This hands-on experience has been the cornerstone of my approach to marrying traditional agricultural practices with cutting-edge technologies to uplift communities economically and socially - seeing food as medicine. As an international speaker, I have advocated for innovative agricultural models that are not only environmentally sustainable but also engines of economic growth and workforce empowerment. My work transcends the mere production of food, focusing on developing sustainable economic strategies that bolster local communities, enhance global food security, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. In this vein, I have been instrumental in creating pathways for workforce development, ensuring that the agricultural sector is equipped with skilled professionals capable of navigating and advancing in a rapidly evolving landscape. I am committed to a vision of agriculture that fosters economic resilience, environmental harmony, and societal well-being. Through continuous learning and innovation, I aim to lead initiatives that prepare the workforce for the future, driving forward both the economic and ecological health of our planet. Let’s join together and connect to explore collaborative opportunities that strive for sustainable excellence in agriculture, benefiting economies, ecosystems, and communities worldwide. Let’s do this!! Start in your community and envision the ripple you can make! #mondaymorningdetermination #shecan

Transforming Communities Through Sustainable Agriculture: A Collaborative Journey with Rotary International As the Executive Director at the Center for Sustainable Agricultural Excellence and Conservation a steadfast advocate for integrated and sustainable agriculture practices, I’ve dedicated my career to not just imagining a greener future but actively cultivating it. At the Center, we’re pioneering innovative approaches like economic development with agriculture and food using technologies such aquaponics and re-gen agriculture to combat food insecurity, promote climate-smart commodities, and empower communities worldwide. Our mission is ambitious, demanding collaborative spirits and hands willing to sow the seeds of change. That’s where our partnership with Rotary International becomes pivotal. Rotary’s global network and unwavering commitment to community welfare have been instrumental in amplifying our impact, reaching corners of the world thirsty for sustainable change. Together, we’re not just distributing resources but enabling communities to flourish independently, harnessing the power of sustainable agricultural practices to ensure food security, economic stability, and environmental preservation. From constructing aquaponics systems in remote areas to educating farmers on regenerative techniques, our combined efforts are planting the roots for a future where sustainability is not just an ideal but a lived reality. This collaboration is a testament to the power of partnership in driving significant, lasting change. As we continue to work hand in hand with Rotary International and local communities, we’re witnessing transformative shifts in how societies engage with their environment, produce food, and sustain their economies. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this global movement alongside Rotary International, and I look forward to the continued growth and success of our joint initiatives. To everyone who shares our vision of a sustainable agricultural future, I invite you to join us on this rewarding journey. Together, let’s cultivate a world where every community thrives through the principles of sustainable agriculture. 🌱 #SustainableAgriculture #RotaryInternational #Aquaponics #RegenerativeAgriculture #ClimateSmartAgriculture #CommunityDevelopment #GlobalImpact Walton Family Foundation Lukas Walton Bezos Earth Fund City of Jacksonville University of North Florida Cornell University Shelly Steele

Reflecting on Milestones: Embracing Growth and New Perspectives As I approach a significant personal milestone—turning 50—I find myself reflecting on the journey so far and the exciting path ahead. It’s a moment that fills me with gratitude for the countless connections, both old and new, and the endless opportunities to learn, adapt, and see the world from new perspectives, one different than my own. In these 60 days leading up to this milestone, I am reminded of the importance of staying open to change and the beauty of remembering the life I’ve led. Each experience, each challenge, and each triumph has been a step on a path that unfolds just as it’s meant to. I just have learned to stay open. Professionally, this mindset resonates deeply with the work we do at the Center for Sustainable Agricultural Excellence and Conservation, in the realms of integrated and sustainable agriculture, success hinges on our ability to embrace change, learn from the environment/people, and apply new knowledge towards creating systems that not only thrive but regenerate the planet and ourselves, starting with me. This personal and professional journey has been a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the enduring joy of discovery. As I share this reflection, I hope to hear from others who embrace their own paths with curiosity and openness, to cherish the connections that enrich our lives, and to approach each new day as an opportunity to learn and grow. Here’s to the next chapter, filled with as much learning and growth as the ones that have passed, and to the exciting new perspectives yet to come. ONWARD AND UPWARD… for a better me. #inthistogether #itbeginswithme #agriculturalinnovation #agriculturalrevolution #savetheplanet #savewater #farmHER

It’s been six months since @Blue Zones Project Jacksonville kicked off in our community! As the year ends, I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to thank our community for trusting us and joining in this work with us! The work of guiding community conversations in effective policies that will make our lives and our city better has inspired me to remain steadfast in these efforts. Our built environment experts, food systems organizations and alcohol & tobacco partners have all been critical in how we inform the work Blue Zones Project Jax. I’d like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Deegan, City of Jacksonville, City Council, Groundwork Jacksonville, Tobacco Free Florida, Drug Free Duval, Center for Sustainable Agricultural Excellence and Conservation, Duval Soil & Water Conservation District, New Town Success Zone - Jacksonville, Feeding Northeast Florida and Eartha’s Farm & Market for coming alongside us and being incredible partners. As we continue to work with the community to ensure Jacksonville becomes a place where everyone, everywhere can live better, longer-we invite you to join us on this journey. Please follow us on Instagram to stay plugged in @BZPJacksonville.

Winter significantly impacts traditional farming practices, causing challenges such as frost damage and limited crop growth. However, controlled environment agriculture facilities, like greenhouses or indoor farms, mitigate these issues. They provide a stable environment for crops, allowing farmers to grow produce throughout the year. This not only ensures a more consistent food supply but also supports the local economy by reducing dependence on seasonal fluctuations. Controlled environments enable sustainable and climate-smart agriculture practices, contributing to food security in the face of seasonal challenges. This will be ready for your tables, restaurants, CSA and anywhere else next week. #farmingforthefuture #farmtotable #morecropslessdrops Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) USDA-NRCS