January 2021
The Sunshine State had solid representation during the Young Farmers and Ranchers competitions this week at AFBF’s Virtual Convention. Michael and Brooke Hill, Matt Griffin and Tyler Pittman competed for the Achievement in Agriculture, Excellence in Agriculture and Discussion Meet titles respectively.
The Hills are 4th generation blueberry growers from Lake County. The couple has a diversified farm business. They grow blueberries both commercially and for their family U-pick operation, Southern Hill Farms. They also have a packing house and a farm management company. The Hills advanced to the top 10 round of the National Achievement in Agriculture competition.
Griffin is passionate about advocating for farmers and ranchers at the local, state and national level. He is an experienced farm manager with a B.S. degree in Food & Resource Economics from the University of Florida. Griffin represented Florida during the National Excellence in Agriculture competition.
Pittman advanced to the Final Four Discussion Meet Round where he placed fourth.. Pittman is a Gilchrist County Extension agent and serves on the Gilchrist/Levy County Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee. He will receive a Case IH 40” Combination Roll Cabinet & Top Chest and a $500 parts card, courtesy of Case IH.
Florida Farm Bureau is proud of its contestants for their outstanding performances, their leadership and service to agriculture.