The Dundee Citrus Growers Association, marking its centennial, has navigated through challenges akin to those faced by the broader Florida citrus sector, including severe freezes during the 1980s and the onslaught of HLB in recent times. Despite these hurdles, it has emerged as the largest citrus cooperative within the state.
Highlighting its journey, a recent video details the association's establishment in 1924 by a collective of growers aiming to achieve collaboratively what was beyond their capacities. Their initial investment consolidated into purchasing a packinghouse for $30,000. By 1930, a new facility was constructed, still operational today.
The 1980s freeze significantly impacted citrus production, prompting Dundee to adopt strategies like geographic diversification and the formation of a dedicated sales and marketing arm. These moves, along with strategic partnerships formed between the late 1990s and 2004, positioned Dundee as Florida's premier fresh citrus cooperative.
Yet, the advent of HLB presented unprecedented challenges, sharply reducing production and acreage. In response, Dundee initiated an incentive program for planting new trees and diversified its operations to include peaches and blueberries. A notable pivot in 2017 towards citrus under protective screen (CUPS) technology represented a significant shift, offering enhanced control over environmental factors and pests, thereby improving fruit quality. Following this innovation, Dundee announced an expansion of its CUPS acreage in Polk County to nearly 1,000 acres in 2022.
Source: Citrus Industry