This week Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the 2023 winners of the Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award: Rocking K Cattle, Island Grove Wine Company, and Brite Leaf Citrus Nursery.
The Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award has been presented annually since 1994 and spotlights environmentally innovative growers and ranchers who share a commitment to protecting and preserving Florida’s resources while continuing to produce the world-class agricultural goods we rely on.
“I am proud to recognize these three proud and innovative Florida agriculture operations as the recipients of the 2023 Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award,” said Simpson. “These growers and ranchers exemplify innovation, environmental stewardship, and sustainable practices that are essential for the future of Florida agriculture. Their commitment to preserving Florida’s natural resources while continuing to produce the highest quality agricultural goods is truly praiseworthy.”
Rocking K Cattle, located in Odessa, Florida, stands out for its sustainable cattle ranching and hay production. Kelly Fulford, who operates Rocking K Cattle is a trailblazer in the field, has implemented multiple Best Management Practices from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to safeguard water quality and local wildlife. By employing rotational grazing across seven cross-fence pastures, Kelly provides fresh forage to cattle while allowing the land to recuperate. To prevent erosion, feeding areas and mineral boxes are rotated and placed away from sensitive areas. Using GPS-guided systems, precise nutrient application is based on soil test results. Kelly also diligently preserves the water quality of natural ditches and cypress ponds on her property. Her commitment extends beyond her ranch, as she actively engages in educating the public about sustainable cattle ranching, hay production, and responsible land management. Kelly is a proud recipient of the Farm Bureau CARES award.
Island Grove Wine Company, situated in Hawthorne, Florida, encompasses a blueberry farm, a nursery, and a winery. Owner and founder Ken Patterson, along with his nephew-in-law Jerod and daughter Sarah, diligently implement Best Management Practices across their locations in Putnam, Alachua, and DeSoto counties. Sustainability and the production of a safe product are paramount to the Island Grove family. The north Florida operation operates entirely on organic production, utilizing drip soil water conservation techniques, drain tile systems to minimize runoff, organic weed control measures, grass buffers for nutrient filtration, wetland conservation, and wildflower areas to support native pollinators. Notably, Island Grove maximizes its harvest by transforming leftover fruit into wine, effectively achieving zero waste. Island Grove wines can be found in prominent retail chains such as Publix, Target, Whole Foods, and Total Wine across Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Island Grove Wine Company is a proud recipient of the Farm Bureau CARES award.
Brite Leaf Citrus Nursery, located near Lake Panasoffkee, Florida, specializes in the growth of commercial, retail, and wholesale citrus trees within fully enclosed, inspect-proof greenhouses spanning 90,000 square feet. Owners Nate and Anna Jameson prioritize land sustainability and have implemented eco-friendly measures to reduce water and fertilizer usage through Best Management Practices. Transitioning from overhead to drip irrigation has resulted in a remarkable 60 percent water savings, reducing water consumption from 24,000 to less than 10,000 gallons per day. Brite Leaf Citrus Nursery also employs coconut coir, a sustainable by-product of coconut oil, as their potting medium due to its sanitation properties and compatibility with a liquid fertigation system. Outside the greenhouses, the nursery has planted pine trees as windbreaks and to create natural habitats for local wildlife. Brite Leaf Citrus Nursery is a proud recipient of the Farm Bureau CARES award.
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