originated as a protest group that threatened farm strikes to a serious collective

bargaining organization that bargained with the buyers and processors of farm products

(Mooney & Majka, 1995).

 All of these agricultural organizations have basically one thing in common, they

were all founded because a critical mass of highly motivated people decided that their

likelihood of success in tackling a significant challenge would be much greater if people

worked cooperatively toward a common goal (Stuart, 2003).

Florida Commodity Organizations

 In the state of Florida, there are numerous organizations that represent all the

major agricultural commodities, which are grown in the state in addition to the FFBF

representing the general agricultural interests. Two of the largest and most powerful are

the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association (FFVA) and Florida Citrus Mutual (FCM).

 FFVA began during World War II to address the challenges facing growers at the

time. Legislation had been passed that negatively affected Florida growers and those

growers saw a clear need to organize so that the concerns of Florida's fruit and vegetable

industry would be heard in Washington D. C. (Stuart, 2003).

 The FFVA "has grown into one of the most recognized and influential

 organizations of its kind in the country. Its success can be directly attributed to the

 dedication and hard work of individuals who have served as officers and on its board of

 directors and committees throughout its history" (Stuart, 2003, para. 5).

 FCM began in 1948 after the citrus industry experienced severe market

 fluctuations. Today, FCM provides the following services to its members: reliable

 market information, grower legislation, taxation, citrus research, Florida Department of