The UF-IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit is located in Citra, Florida.  Through the leadership of Jim Boyer, the facility grows more than 140 commodities annually and conducts diverse row and specialty crop research projects. Water conservation and soil heath is a top priority for the center. The Center has been utilizing BMPs since the early 2000’s and has several staff with advanced knowledge in these environmental stewardship practices. Irrigation efficiency, pest management, wildlife habitat, cover crops and conservation buffers are just a few examples of how the Center protects surrounding land and the Silver Springs area.