Tag Archives: YF&R

Tied to Ag: Bobby Floyd, Hardee County

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September 2024 FloridAgriculture eNewsletter

Sixth generation Floridian Bobby Floyd grew up on his family’s cow/calf operation in Zolfo Springs. Throughout his life he has helped run cattle on the farm and has played an active role in the farm’s day-to-day operation.

After graduating from Hardee High School, Floyd attended the University of Florida and received his Bachelor of Science degree in food and resource economics.  He worked for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) for two years before switching careers. During his time at FDACS, Floyd worked as a nematode inspector. He collected soil samples and inspected nurseries to ensure their plants were safe to ship to other states. Floyd now works as a high school Algebra 1 teacher in Hardee County.

Floyd was first introduced to Florida Farm Bureau by one of his high school friends who was interested in starting a Young Farmers and Ranchers group. When Floyd learned of the numerous leadership and networking opportunities available through Farm Bureau, he was hooked. Joining the state YF&R Leadership Group has helped Floyd grow his network and agricultural knowledge.

“I enjoy networking with different people,” said Floyd. “When we went to Omaha earlier this year, I met so many likeminded people from across the country. Everyone does something different in agriculture and it was neat to learn about.”

Through the YF&R Leadership Group and teaching high school students, Floyd enjoys helping others find their tie to agriculture and strengthening his personal tie. He continues to help on his family’s farm and enjoys connecting with his roots.

“I am staying tied to ag by teaching others where our food comes from and by encouraging young people to learn more about agriculture.”

 

Tied to Ag: Jared Freeman, Alachua County

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August 2024 FloridAgriculture eNewsletter

Jared Freeman’s passion for agriculture and love for animals sparked at an early age. He spent countless hours in the pasture with his grandfather growing up, and that time together was pivotal in Freeman’s path in life. He was an active member of 4-H and FFA and participated in as many contests and Career Development Events as he could.  

As Freeman grew older, his love for agriculture only grew stronger and he knew he wanted to pursue a career in the industry. He attended Sante Fe College for his associates degree and transferred to the University of Florida where he received his bachelor of science in animal biology. After graduating college in 2013, Freeman began his career as a veterinarian technician and is currently the practice manager at a clinic in Gainesville. 

Although the clinic keeps him busy, Freeman visits his family farm in Union County a few times each week to help his mother and grandfather with the beef cattle, goats and honeybees. Although the farm has always been recreational for his grandfather, Freeman is working to build income for the farm by growing their beef cattle and goat operations.  

Representing Alachua County on the State Young Farmers & Ranchers Leadership Group, Freeman has been given many unique opportunities to network with others from across the state.  

“Getting to meet people who share a similar interest but aren’t in the same commodity has been really neat,” said Freeman. “I’ve met so many people on my journey that I’ve been able to exchange ideas with and learn from.” 

Freeman has thoroughly enjoyed diversifying his agricultural knowledge through farm tours and learning from other Farm Bureau members. His first farm tour was at the 2023 YF&R Leadership Conference, and he has enjoyed learning about agriculture in other parts of Florida.  

One of the most impactful networking opportunities Freeman has had was his time spent in Tallahassee for Farm Bureau Day in January. He enjoyed learning about the legislative process and how that applies to agriculture.  

“Getting to interact with legislators gave me a new level of excitement,” said Freeman. “I never really knew that was a direction that agriculture could go. Spending time with legislators sparked a new interest in me and I’m looking forward to similar opportunities in Washington, D.C.” 

Freeman is continuously helping others realize their tie to agriculture. Being on the state leadership team has shown him how to strengthen his personal ties and he enjoys helping others do the same.  

“When I got to the University of Florida, I realized not everyone grew up the way that I did,” said Freeman. “I’m staying tied to agriculture by helping others realize what their tie is, no matter what part of life they’re in.” 

Tied to Ag: Tyler and Emily Shadrick, Madison County

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July 2024 FloridAgriculture eNewsletter 

Tyler and Emily Shadrick are first generation blueberry growers in Madison County. Growing up in a small, rural town, their families were friends long before the two became a couple. Although they did not grow up on farms, the couple enjoys being part of the agriculture community and starting a farm of their own. 

Tyler learned a lot about farming during his employment on various farms. After taking a step back, he decided to start farming for himself. In 2019, Shadrick Farms was founded. 

In addition to running Shadrick Farms, Tyler is the facility manager for Madison Youth Ranch North Campus of Residing Hope Children’s Home and Emily is a third-grade teacher.  

Although Farm Bureau has always been a part of the Shadricks’ life from an insurance perspective, it wasn’t until a few years ago that Tyler and Emily became involved with the Madison County YF&R Program. Buck Carpenter, an active Farm Bureau member in the county, encouraged the couple to attend the group’s meetings and later helped them earn scholarships to attend the YF&R Leadership Conference.  

“I have really enjoyed getting to meet new people through Farm Bureau and learning that there’s a lot more agriculture in Florida than what my county brings to the table,” said Tyler Shadrick. “We had no idea about all the leadership opportunities that the leadership group would offer us when we joined.”  

As members of the YF&R state leadership group, Tyler and Emily have had the opportunity to learn about agriculture on a state and national level. Tyler serves as the Class X President, which gives him a seat on the Florida Farm Bureau state board. This has been an eye-opening experience as they continue to strengthen their tie to agriculture. 

“I stay tied to ag by connecting national issues with my county,” said Tyler. “I have gotten to go to Washington, D.C. and learn about big issues that aren’t being talked about on a county level. I try to bring what I’ve learned to my county and help create a solution.”  

Tied to Ag: Jake Pendergrass, Hardee County

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June 2024 FloridAgriculture eNewsletter

Jake Pendergrass is no stranger to Farm Bureau. He grew up on his family’s cow/calf operation in North Alabama and moved to Florida when he was 12 years old. 

After relocating to Florida, Pendergrass spent his teenage years helping on the family’s citrus grove in Zolfo Springs. He was involved in FFA and showed cattle, participated in citrus and livestock judging and held leadership roles such as chapter reporter and vice president. 

Pendergrass received his degree in citrus and horticultural sciences from Florida Southern College and currently works as a loan officer for Farm Credit. He continues to help on the family farm and manages a small herd of his own commercial cattle, including South Poll, Brangus and Red Angus breeds. 

His father served as the state Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Group (YF&R) chair for the Alabama Farmers Federation (Alfa) and later served on its county board before moving to Florida. Observing his father’s involvement in the organization made it an easy decision for Pendergrass to join himself. He serves as the Highlands County YF&R treasurer and representative for District 9 on the state leadership team. 

“I love getting to hear the stories of other farmers across the state of Florida and advocating for them,” said Pendergrass. “Agriculture in Florida is under attack and being able to help grow the industry is what I like about the Florida Farm Bureau Federation. It’s just a great organization and everybody involved deeply cares about farmers and ranchers in our state.” 

Pendergrass enjoys being involved in his county and educating the community about the importance of agriculture. He is proud of the annual Ag Fest hosted by Hardee County Farm Bureau during Farm-City Week in November. This outreach event educates community members about agriculture in the area.  

“I’m tied to agriculture because of my love and passion for the agricultural industry in Florida,” said Pendergrass. “Being able to carry on the heritage of being an agriculturalist is what keeps me tied to ag.” 

Tied to Ag: Katie Quincey, Gilchrist County

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May 2024 FloridAgriculture eNewsletter

Katie Quincey is a proud fifth generation agriculturalist from Trenton. Her family’s cow/calf operation, Hines Cattle Co., is on the Gilchrist/Alachua County line in North Central Florida.  In addition to commercial beef cattle, her family produces grass seed and hay.

“My great-grandfather on my dad’s side was a range rider,” said Quincey. “He would drive peoples’ cows to dipping vats and then drive them back to the farms. I think that’s neat.”

Quincey was heavily involved in 4-H and FFA throughout her childhood. She was an FFA state star finalist in her senior year of high school, managing her own small herd of purebred angus cattle. She and her family are still involved with FFA and donate steers to students showing at the state fair. Additionally, Quincey coaches the Bell FFA livestock judging team.

After earning her degree in Food and Resource Economics from the University of Florida, Quincey taught high school agriculture for seven years. She has transitioned from the classrooms to the fields as a technician for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, having been in her new role for one year.

“My focus is on Best Management Practices (BMPs),” said Quincey. “I work with the farmers directly and am the middleman between the state and production agriculture. I’m the voice for them, to get their needs across and help them conserve water.”

Growing up in agriculture, Quincey has always had a strong passion for the beef industry. Her passion continued to grow when she was introduced to the Young Farmers and Ranchers program offered through Florida Farm Bureau. Although her family has always been Farm Bureau members, she is the first to be actively involved in the organization.

“Farm Bureau has given me opportunities to thrive as an individual, “said Quincey. “It has endless opportunities to make yourself better and to promote agriculture. I think if you don’t have people speaking out for agriculture then it’s going to die, and Farm Bureau gives you that voice.”

Quincey recently moved back to Gilchrist County and is excited to revitalize the Young Farmers and Ranchers program locally. She serves as the Gilchrist County Women’s Chair and is optimistic about the many ideas of the committee to promote agriculture in the community.

Throughout her career and continued leadership growth, Quincey tries to stay tied to agriculture in every aspect of her life. She often reminds herself of her roots and where she came from.

“I have a love and passion for my family’s farm and hope to take it over one day,” said Quincey.” I always keep that in mind as I create goals for the future.”

Tied to Ag: Jorin Ouwinga

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April 2024 FloridAgriculture eNewsletter

Jorin Ouwinga
YF&R Leadership Group, Western Palm Beach County, District 9

Jorin Ouwinga grew up in northern Michigan’s Missaukee county, where he was surrounded by farms and rural life. His grandparents on both sides were farmers, which influenced his interest and involvement in farming. He started working on the farm when he was thirteen and has stayed connected to it ever since. 

He got his Bachelor of Science in agribusiness management from Michigan State University, then moved to Florida to pursue his MBA at the University of Florida. 

After spending two years in Gainesville, Ouwinga relocated to Loxahatchee, a small community in western Palm Beach County. He works as a supply chain manager for Florida Crystals in the procurement department, using his skills to handle the challenges of the agricultural industry. 

Besides his professional work, Ouwinga has also enjoyed the fellowship of Farm Bureau. 

“I like interacting with others who have a common goal; to educate the community about agriculture,” said Ouwinga. 

His involvement with Farm Bureau goes back to his childhood; his parents were active members, creating an early connection to the organization. 

During his college years at Michigan State University, Ouwinga kept his involvement going by joining the collegiate Farm Bureau. When he moved to Florida, he was introduced to the Florida Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) program when he met Kevin Lussier, an active member of the Alachua County YF&R Leadership Group, during a sales call. 

As members of the Alachua County YF&R group, Ouwinga and his wife, Gabi, helped with the establishment of the Alachua County Food & Agriculture Festival, held in downtown Gainesville at the Cade Museum in the fall. 

“We were part of the first group that organized it,” said Ouwinga. “Gabi and I were pretty involved in that.” 

Despite the demands of his professional life, Ouwinga remains close to agriculture in different ways. From having a backyard farm with chickens and bees to selling products at the office, he actively raises awareness about agriculture’s essential role in our daily lives. Even within an agricultural company, he understands the need to educate others about where their food comes from.  

Tied to Ag: Dallas Hull

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March 2024 FloridAgriculture eNewsletter

Dallas Hull grew up in New Smyrna Beach where she was involved in her local 4-H and FFA programs. Her father was a Volusia County Fair Association Director during Hull’s childhood, which led to her involvement showing livestock at the county fair. She has always been around agriculture in some facet, and over the last few years, has truly grown into a strong advocate and leader in her county.  

Hull attended college in Gainesville on a softball scholarship before continuing her education at the University of Central Florida. There, she received her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. Hull is currently working on her second degree in Public Administration with a minor in homeland security. 

“I’m a crime analyst for Volusia Sheriff’s Office,” said Hull. “I’m hoping my second degree will one day help me in my professional career and on the agricultural side with food security.” 

After moving back home, she started volunteering at the county fair and became involved with the cattlewomen’s association. She was introduced to Florida Farm Bureau in 2020 by Victoria Hunter, Florida Farm Bureau State Women’s Leadership Committee Chair, and has been very involved since. She serves as the Volusia County Young Farmers & Ranchers committee chair and has been a driving force behind the Taste of Volusia, a successful event that was started with funding from Farm Bureau’s County Action Program.  

Taste of Volusia is a farm-to-table style social highlighting Volusia County farms, ranches and other agricultural organizations and businesses. Attendees visit with local farmers and ranchers while sampling and learning about different Volusia County agriculture commodities and the farms or ranches that they are grown on. The YF&R committee was recognized by American Farm Bureau for its inaugural event in 2022. Committee members attended the American Farm Bureau Convention in Puerto Rico, where they had a trade show booth and were able to share the success of the event and exchange ideas with other Farm Bureau members from around the country.  

“I am so proud of the Taste of Volusia,” said Hull. “We’ve grown this event so much and are going on year three. It keeps getting bigger and better and it is great seeing how much our community loves it and looks forward to it. The best part is that it helps ensure our local food supply, our farmers and ranchers really appreciate it.” 

Hull currently lives in Seville with her fiancé, Franklin Nolan, where they own a small cow/calf operation. Her fiancé is a welder and uses his trade to support agriculture in their area. This year, the couple is hoping to offer heifers to 4-H and FFA kids to lease and show to help them get involved in agriculture.

“Franklin’s granddad won the achievement in agriculture award in 1980,” said Hull. “We would love to one day apply for that award as well and hopefully have two achievements in agriculture award recipients in the family.” 

Hull continues to strengthen her tie to agriculture through her community involvement and sharing her passion for the industry with whomever she can. 

Tied to Ag: Matthew and Blaire Fisher

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Matt and Blaire Fisher grew up in Florida’s Panhandle. Blaire grew up in Jackson County and Matt in Washington County, and the couple currently reside in Matt’s hometown of Chipley. Together, they have two sons; Brett and Brody.  

The Fishers raise and sell grass fed, grain fed and Waygu beef cattle as well as grow and bale Bahia and perennial peanut hay. They attend community farmers’ markets on the weekends to sell their locally grown beef. Matt works full-time on the family farm managing the cow/calf operation and overseeing the growth and baling of hay. Blaire works for Johnson Roofing Solutions, where she is responsible for scheduling all final inspections and assisting with permit pulling.  

The couple is eager to expand their involvement in Farm Bureau and learn more about agriculture across the state.  Matt’s dad is the Washington County president, and the couple is eager to represent their local county at the state level and continue their involvement locally. 

“Farm Bureau gives us the opportunity to meet new people and learn about new operations,” said Blaire. “We also learn how beneficial and important Farm Bureau is to members and how they help in each challenge that comes in between different operations.”  

Matt and Blaire’s community involvement through their local farmers’ market has given them the opportunity to educate customers about where their food comes from. Helping  more people learn about the importance of agriculture and its impact on the local economy is something that both Matt and Blaire are very passionate about.  

“We are tied to ag by going to local Farmer’s Markets every weekend and sharing our production of beef with the community,” said Blaire. “We have the inventory to give people the opportunity to buy Farm to Table beef and know where it is coming from. We explain how our operation works and we plan to be even more successful in 2024 with our beef production.” 

Tied to Ag: Benjamin Putnam

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January 2024 FloridAgriculture eNewsletter

Benjamin Putnam comes from a family of agriculturalists in rural Polk County. He is a sixth-generation farmer and grew up working cattle with his uncle, fixing irrigation in the citrus grove, and helping around the farm where needed. His involvement on the family farm helped instill in him a passion for agriculture.  

Upon graduation from Auburn University with a degree in business management, Putnam decided to move back home and work full-time at Putnam Groves, his family’s citrus operation.  

“After my Uncle Will passed away, my cousin Christian and I talked a lot about my plans after college,” said Putnam. “It felt right to move back to Bartow and work at the farm.”  

The family farm has 1,300 head of cattle spanning over Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties and 1,000 acres of citrus, specifically Valencia and Hamlin varieties. They have recently started hay production and are refurbishing pastures through rotational grazing.

“We started rotational grazing and allowing some family friends to grow watermelons in our pastures to help with weed control and help add more grazing land for our cattle next year,” said Putnam. “This has really allowed us to continue to be good stewards of the land.”  

Although Putnam has grown up around Farm Bureau, it was his cousin that encouraged him to become more involved with their local Young Farmers & Ranchers group and apply for the leadership team. He has enjoyed being more involved in the community and sharing agriculture’s story with the public.  

“Last year, we were able to donate 160 pounds of blueberries through Harvest for All,” said Putnam. “We also set up a booth at the Lakeland Farmer’s Market and talk to people about agriculture and pass out Publix gift cards to help pay for some of their groceries.” 

Putnam also looks forward to visiting with other farmers in the community at their county annual meeting in October.  

When asked what he is looking forward to over the next two years on the state leadership team, Putnam is excited to get more involved with Florida Farm Bureau and learn how to better advocate for the agriculture industry.  

“I’m strengthening my tie to agriculture by learning how to be a better spokesperson for the industry through the opportunities the leadership group will provide me,” said Putnam. “I’m excited for opportunities to network with other young farmers from around the country and learn about agriculture and advocacy in their state at the American Farm Bureau Federation YF&R Leadership Conference in March.” 

Tied to Ag: Erin Jones

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December 2023 FloridAgriculture eNewsletter

Growing up, Erin Jones was surrounded by agriculture on her family’s cattle, hay and peanut farm in Bell. Her family has approximately 60 commercial beef cows and a Simmental Angus bull. Jones was actively involved in 4-H and FFA during her youth and is involved with local chapters in her community. 

“I have my own cattle and work alongside my mom and dad to maintain our herd,” said Jones. “We sell show calves to 4-H and FFA members, giving me an opportunity to work with the future of our organization to cultivate a passion for agriculture like I have.” 

Jones attended Florida Gateway College for her associate degree and transferred to the University of Florida where she received a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences. She is currently working on her master’s in agronomy from UF and works for UF/IFAS Extension as the Suwannee County Livestock Agent. 

“I am proud to work with livestock and forage producers to help them continue to grow and maintain their operations,” said Jones. “I am extremely blessed to be able to coach the 4-H Livestock Judging Team and give youth members the opportunity to build a network of agriculturists and spark passion for the industry in each member.” 

Although her parents have been Farm Bureau members for decades, Jones began her own journey with the organization when she started school at UF. She was a founding member of the Levy/Gilchrist County Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R). Jones has served as the chair of the Gilchrist County YF&R committee since 2017 and attained a position on the Gilchrist County Farm Bureau board in 2018. Jones’ position as the Suwannee County Livestock Agent allows her to be involved in both Gilchrist and Suwannee County Farm Bureaus. 

Jones is a proud advocate for agriculture in her county and loves educating others about the benefits of being a Farm Bureau member. She enjoys participating in numerous outreach opportunities throughout the year, but particularly enjoys the Christmas parade in Bell every December and the Quilt Festival held in Trenton in March.  

Jones believes in the future of the young people in her community and is continuously looking for ways to engage them in agriculture. In addition to her involvement with the younger generation, Jones is always looking for ways to push herself professionally. She participated in the Young Farmers & Ranchers Discussion Meet at the organization’s annual meeting and will be representing Florida at the 2024 American Farm Bureau Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah in January. 

“I could not be where I am today without my Farm Bureau family, and I am so excited to make them proud and represent them to the best of my ability,” said Jones. 

 

Throughout her involvement, Jones continues to be a strong advocate for Florida agriculture. She is excited to grow her knowledge and leadership skills through the many opportunities the Young Farmers & Ranchers state Leadership Team will present to her.  

“I think for me, being tied to ag drives my passion to continue to advocate for the industry that has molded me into the person I am today,” said Jones.