Last week, NWA staff traveled  across Florida to visit with members, researchers, and industry partners, with a focus on the future of the watermelon industry.  Their emphasis was on the innovation, relationships, and leadership that will shape the industry in the coming years.

 

 

The trip included visits to field trials hosted by Enza Zaden alongside partners from Seedway, as well as time in the field and at shipping operations with NWA members Leger & Son and Sweet Mama. Opportunities to connect directly with growers and industry partners remain incredibly valuable as NWA works to stay aligned with the real-world challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

Additionally, the visit featured time at the University of Florida, where researchers are utilizing AI-driven camera systems capable of identifying watermelon canopies and weeds to support more precise crop protection applications and improved sprayer efficiency. These types of technologies highlight the potential for innovation to improve efficiency, sustainability, and long-term competitiveness in watermelon production.

The trip concluded with attendance at the “Think Outside the Barn” event benefiting Mind Your Melon. NWA is proud to support Mind Your Melon’s efforts to address mental health challenges within agriculture and continue important conversations around wellbeing in the produce industry.