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NewsCreative Loafing TampaSeptember 8, 2026Hillsborough County

U.S. Department of Agriculture reports Florida lost nearly 21 percent of citrus land over the past year

Photo: Creative Loafing Tampa

The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that Florida's citrus land decreased by nearly 21 percent over the past year. There are currently 165,359 acres across 23 Florida counties dedicated to producing oranges, grapefruit, and specialty fruits as the 2026-2027 growing season begins.

AgricultureCitrus IndustryEconomyLand Use
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Why It Matters

The change tracks the ongoing reduction in agricultural land and active acreage available for citrus production across 23 Florida counties.

Key Facts

  • Florida has lost nearly 21 percent of its citrus farms over the past year, according to a federal report.
  • There are 165,359 total acres currently in use for citrus production.
  • Citrus production spans across 23 Florida counties.
  • The data comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s preliminary Commercial Citrus Inventory report.
  • The figures are released as the 2026-2027 growing season gets underway.

Who's Mentioned

locationFlorida“State experiencing a decrease in citrus farming land.”other23“Number of Florida counties with active commercial citrus production.”OrganizationU.S. Department of Agriculture“Issued the preliminary Commercial Citrus Inventory report.”