Dr. Ed Rosenthal, Space Technology Hall of Fame inductee, will share his expertise on space agriculture at Selby Library in Sarasota on Wednesday, December 3, at 5 p.m.

Known for inventing a groundbreaking controlled-release fertilizer for microgravity, Dr. Rosenthal was key in helping astronauts grow fresh crops aboard the International Space Station.

His fertilizer innovation benefits both space missions and terrestrial farming, emphasizing the critical role of fresh produce in long-duration spaceflight.

The free, public event — hosted by the Sarasota Sister Cities Association — will also feature a video message from an astronaut headed to NASA’s Artemis mission.

Sarasota County’s focus on agricultural education continues with ‘The Farm,’ a 40-acre learning facility at McIntosh Middle School, providing hands-on opportunities for students.

The county’s recent $19 million purchase of Albritton Fruit Farms will supply landfill cover, saving taxpayers millions, while underscoring Sarasota’s dedication to innovation in agriculture.