One of the first people I met at the Southern Peanut Growers Conference was Ken Barton, Executive Director, Florida Peanut Producers Association. FPPA is one of the state peanut groups that puts on the conference.
Ken provided me with an overview of the conference in a short interview. He says the content seems to get better each year. The registration room was very busy so it looks like attendance is off to a great start.
The program will include speakers talking about each segment of the peanut industry including research and promotion. Of course farmer attendees get some time to enjoy the beach with their families. Ken points out that the water is beautiful and clean.
I asked him about the status of the Florida peanut industry and he says it’s “very healthy.” Consumption is increasing and the crop is in good shape although some areas could use more rain.
Ken Barton Interview