Florida Peanut Producers Association Celebrates 50 years
During the early years of the Florida Peanut Producers Association, farmers loaded a Greyhound bus to travel to the Florida state capitol in Tallahassee to visit legislators on topics that were important to the peanut industry.
For 50 years, the Florida Peanut Producers Association has worked on behalf of the state’s peanut farmers, focusing on research, education and promotion to strengthen the industry. While the association proudly says it has been “working for peanuts,” its efforts over the past five decades have played a vital role in supporting Florida’s growers and ensuring the crop’s continued success.
Founded to serve the needs of peanut farmers across the state, FPPA was established at a time when producers recognized the importance of having a unified voice to advocate for their industry. Over the years, the organization has remained committed to investing in research that improves peanut production, educating both growers and consumers, and promoting the many benefits of peanuts and peanut products.
The Florida Peanut Producers Association has hosted many groups on tours throughout their 50 years. In 2024, FPPA joined the American Peanut Council and the Alabama Peanut Producers Association in hosting the Mexico Reverse Trade Mission. The multi-day visit brought over 30 Mexican importers and manufacturers through Alabama, Florida and Georgia to learn more about the U.S. peanut industry. The group visited Ford Farms in Greenwood, Fla., and the University of Florida IFAS Research and Education Center in Marianna, Fla.
One individual closely tied to the organization’s beginnings is Richard Barber, a founding board member and the second president of FPPA. His involvement in the early days helped establish the strong foundation that continues to guide the association today.
“FPPA was founded with good people who wanted to see the Florida peanut industry thrive. It was an honor to be a part of the founding group,” Barber says. “FPPA has done great things over the last 50 years and has represented the state to the highest standards. As a founding board member, I am proud.”
Throughout its history, FPPA has supported research initiatives that help peanut growers remain productive and competitive. Partnerships with universities, Extension specialists, and agricultural researchers have contributed to advancements in peanut varieties, disease management and production practices, benefiting farmers across the region.
Education has also remained a central focus of the organization. By providing growers with the latest information on research findings, market trends and best management practices, FPPA ensures that Florida peanut producers have the tools they need to succeed. These efforts extend beyond the farm, helping consumers better understand where their food comes from and the role peanuts play in a healthy diet.
The Florida Peanut Producers Association funds a variety of research projects through their 50 years including research at the University of Florida. Barry Tillman, University of Florida peanut breeder, discusses peanut variety trials at a research field day in Florida.
In addition to research and education, FPPA has worked to promote peanuts and peanut products, highlighting their versatility, nutritional value and importance to agriculture in the Southeast. These promotion efforts help increase consumer awareness and support demand for peanuts grown by farmers across Florida.
David DeFelix, who recently completed his sixth term with FPPA, reflected on his time with the organization.
“Serving with the board and working with great farmers has been a privilege. It has been a big responsibility handling the growers’ money and making sure those dollars go to things that will turn around and benefit the farmers,” DeFelix says. “I am proud of what FPPA has accomplished and the things the association has done to help Florida peanut growers.”
The Florida Peanut Producers Association is one of the founding partners of the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation which organizes the Peanut Leadership Academy. Brittany Green (left), FPPA executive director, is pictured with Class XIV Florida members Jeffery Pittman, Bascom, Fla., and Jerod Jones, Jay, Fla.
Over the decades, the peanut industry has experienced many changes, from advancements in farming technology to evolving markets and consumer preferences. Through it all, FPPA has remained focused on serving its growers and strengthening the industry for future generations.
Today, Florida peanut producers continue to play an important role in supplying high-quality peanuts for both domestic and international markets. The work of organizations like FPPA helps ensure that success continues.
Looking ahead, the next 50 years hold great promise. Larry Ford believes that with FPPA continuing its work, the industry will see “higher yields, better quality and more consumption.”
The Florida Peanut Producers Association represents farmers by being a voice on issues relating to the farm bill and policy issues. Ken Barton, former FPPA executive director, discusses issues impacting Florida’s peanut farmers at a farm bill hearing in Gainesville, Fla.
As the Florida Peanut Producers Association celebrates its 50th anniversary, this milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on the dedication of the farmers, leaders and supporters who have contributed to its success. Five decades of commitment to research, education and promotion have helped shape a strong and resilient peanut industry in Florida.
Retired Executive Director Ken Barton leaves Florida growers with these words of encouragement.
“Persevere, hold on and know that the difficult times will turn around,” Barton says. “Have faith in what you’re doing, don’t lose your love for the land and agriculture. Trust in the Lord that He will bring you through the difficult times.”
Looking ahead, FPPA remains dedicated to continuing this important work—supporting peanut growers and ensuring that peanuts remain a vital part of Florida agriculture and history for many years to come.
by Peyton Woods