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Issues: Global Warming

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How Global Warming Will Affect Floridians
A photo essay exploring the consequences of climate change for Florida residents, businesses and visitors.

If you're a citrus grower . . . heads up. Global warming could mean big changes for your industry.

Photo: Citrus growers will be affected by global warming.

Florida is the nation's leading producer of citrus fruit, with total citrus revenues exceeding $1.6 billion. But if your livelihood depends on citrus, global warming could affect your financial security.

At first, global warming may actually help citrus growers. Warmer temperatures and increased carbon dioxide fertilization is likely to boost production 6 to 15 percent in south Florida, and as much as 30 percent in central Florida. At the same time, freeze-related losses should decline.

Over the long run, however, southern Florida citrus growers will take a hit. Temperatures will become too hot during the winter months, lowering crop yields and causing a likely northward migration of the industry. Yet growers from the south attempting to relocate will find themselves in fierce and costly competition for much-sought-after land. In addition, increased exposure to pests and disease is likely to result in greater damage to citrus crops throughout the state.