The Frank Stronach Plant Science Center is the home of the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Science's agronomic, fruit and vegetable research efforts. Today marked the dedication of the conference center to Stronach himself. The celebration wasn't without controversy. Protesters turned out from a variety of locations and organizations over Stronach's plans for a 30,000 acre organic beef ranch and Stronach's permit request to pump 13 and a half million gallons of water per day for the ranch. As Florida's 89.1, WUFT-FM's Donna Green-Townsend reports, the Canadian businessman took note of the outside protests and promised to be a good corporate citizen in Marion County.
View Frank Stronach's full remarks during the dedication ceremony:
<i>Frank Stronach sits next to UF President Bernie Machen at the dedication ceremony on Tuesday.</i>
<i>Various IFAS administrators cut the ribbon on the new Frank Stronach Plant Science Center Conference facility on Tuesday.</i>
<i>Frank Stronach stands next to Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos at the dedication ceremony.</i>
<i>Various protesters carry signs across the street from the dedication ceremony on Tuesday.</i>
<i>One of many different signs protesting water permit request for Adena Ranch in Marion County.</i>
<i>Canadian entrepeneur Frank Stronach stands next to a special plaque unveiled for him at the dedication ceremony at the University of Florida's Plant Science Center near Citra.</i>
<i>UF Plant Science Center dedicates conference facility after Canadian businessman Frank Stronach.</i>