In my agricultural experience, which spans more than 60 years on 5 continents, I have mostly found that farmers are more than willing to share what they know and what they are doing with anyone who bothers to ask. I have often learned more standing on the back of a tractor, talking to the operator in one hour than I could have learned in a day talking to the owner of the land.

When I started my Meyer operation in Guatemala, I asked a mountain of folks for advice. I asked my Alma Mater, UC Davis, offering publication rights in exchange for advice; but they said they couldn't help me; because no one had ever done what I was doing; and I was basically on my own in uncharted waters.

I asked UC Riverside "experts"; but they told a friend of mine, "We don't really have time to talk to people like that". I have often wondered since, what exactly they do with their time and money that is so graciously given to them by the people of California.

I asked Sunkist for help several times; and they finally told me they woud NOT help me, not even allowing me to visit any of their facilities. When I asked why, they said they considered me competition! Well, my friends, today Sunkist cannot compete with me. Because of my revolutionary production system and climate, my production costs are 1/4 that of Sunkist; and my shipping costs are 1/2. What goes around comes around.

In the end, Tantanman from this site, suggested I try the Texas A&M Citrus Center. I contacted them and visited them; they were not only willing to help me but eager. They introduced me to growers and processors in the Rio Grande Valley and gave me a mountain of good advice (some not so good; but still a learning experience. They (and Tantanman) are and will remain on my good friends list.

So, if someone asks you for help, give it, if you can; they may one day be able to help you.

I have a fair amount of experience in one small area; but I do not come here to teach; I come here to learn. And for all of you who have taught me something without my having to learn it the hard way, I thank you.