Cows don't actually talk, despite our podcast name. But we brought someone who can speak out for them!

In this episode of Cow Talks, livestock extension agent Bridget Stice shares an inside look at beef cattle production in South Florida, where the majority of the state’s herd is raised. She discusses the structure of the industry—from large, multi-generational ranches to smaller, part-time operations—and the economic and environmental roles each plays. Stice highlights how producers are not only raising cattle, but also stewarding land and natural resources critical to Florida’s future.

In Part 2 of this Cow Talks series, host Marcelo Wallau and guests expand the conversation beyond immediate disaster impacts to explore long-term resilience in agriculture. The episode highlights the nationwide role of Extension networks in disaster response and the importance of thinking beyond preparedness to include recovery and adaptation. Listeners will also hear why producer input and data sharing remain critical to shaping effective disaster response and future policy.

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Marcelo Wallau is joined by disaster and economics experts Drs. Christa Court and Angela Lindsey to examine the far-reaching impacts of Florida’s recent winter freeze events. From crop losses and disrupted market windows to long-term effects on livestock systems, the conversation explores how a rare combination of cold temperatures and drought led to billions in damages. This is a deep dive into how agricultural systems respond and adapt under pressure.

For more information, check out the links below.

• UF/IFAS Economic Impact Analysis Program (EIAP)https://go.ufl.edu/eiap
• UF/IFAS Disaster Impact Analysishttps://go.ufl.edu/disasters
• UF/IFAS EIAP Winter Freeze Event Resources (English + Español)https://go.ufl.edu/winter26freezeagimpacts2026https://go.ufl.edu/impactosagricolashelada2026
• Extension Disaster Education Networkhttps://extensiondisaster.net/
• Florida Extension Disaster Education Networkhttps://piecenter.com/fl-eden/
• USDA Secretarial Natural Disaster Designation (Florida - Winter Freeze Events - as of March 5, 2026)https://www.fsa.usda.gov/news-events/news/03-05-2026/usda-designates-26-florida-counties-natural-disaster-areas-due-winter
• USDA - Farm Service Agency Service Center Locatorhttps://www.farmers.gov/working-with-us/service-center-locator