An estimated 250 Farm Credit of Central Florida Member/Borrowers, Directors, and staff were recently treated to a high-energy, enthusiastic update on growth in the Central Florida region by Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce President Jacob V. Stuart. Stuart was the keynote speaker at the association’s annual stockholders meeting in Lakeland. His presentation entitled, “How Shall We Grow,” revealed our region could double its population by the year 2050.

Stuart issued an invitation to agriculturists across the region to join in discussions on growth management and take an active part in shaping the future of Central Florida. “Over the years agriculture has served as the backbone for Central Florida’s economy. From ferns and vegetables in the north, to citrus groves and strawberry fields farther south, along with cattle ranching throughout the region, these contributions to the growth of our state, and to the health of our nation, are longstanding and highly valued,” Stuart said.

Farm Credit of Central Florida is a Customer-Owned Lender loaning funds to agricultural operations, rural home residents for lots to build on, refinancing, or new construction. The cooperative also offers crop insurance to area farmers. It has been serving 13 central Florida counties including, Orange, Osceola, Lake, Sumter, Seminole, Volusia, Brevard, Polk, Hillsborough, Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, and Pinellas since 1916.

As a cooperative, Farm Credit of Central Florida Member/Borrowers share in the association’s profits, significantly lowering its customers’ effective rate of funds. Since 1988, Farm Credit of Central Florida Members have benefited from over $122 million of patronage refunds or profit-sharing.

“Agriculture is the second largest industry in the state behind only tourism. Ranchers, and agriculturists, provide green space, and water recharge areas to the state in the normal course of producing the world’s safest, most affordable, and abundant supply of food and fiber,” said Al Bellotto, Farm Credit of Central Florida’s Chairman of the Board.  “This industry has always practiced conservation and will be a major player in the scheme of things as our state continues to grow. ”

For more information on Farm Credit of Central Florida, visit www.farmcreditcfl.com or call toll free 866.245.3637.