Alan and Robert Hammock, Frierson Farms, Glades
Alan and Robert Hammock, along with their wives Ardis and Ashley, own and operate Frierson Farms, Inc. in Glades County, Florida. Frierson Farms originated in 1918, but did not begin to grow sugarcane until 1938. Today, the farm excels in sugarcane production and raises cattle. Frierson Farms, Inc. is a family-run business with members of the family having an active role in the prosperity of the farm. Frierson Farms, Inc. has implemented BMPs for the past 28 years. BMPs are a set of guidelines that advise producers on how to manage the water, nutrient, and pesticides they are using to reduce agriculture’s impact on the state’s natural resources. Some of the BMPs that have been implemented include laser leveling, drill application of fertilizer, and adhere to the nutrient and irrigation management practices. It is practices like these that ensure their land will remain productive and viable for future generations.
The Hammock family is involved in their community as members to the First United Church in Clewiston. Alan is a member of the Farm Bureau Sugar Committee, Florida Sugar Cane League, Disston Island Conservancy Board of Directors, and is a past member of the Everglades Agricultural Area Environmental Protection District. His wife, Ardis, is a past member of the USDA’s Agriculture Trade Advisory Committee for Sugar; Ladies of the Lake, USA, Florida Agri-Women, and is a past County Committee Chairperson for Glades/ Hendry County Farm Service Agency. Robert is a chairperson for the Glades County Soil & Water District. They also participate in the Everglades Agricultural Area Environmental Protection self-taxing district to address water quality standards. When asked why they think it is important to protect the environment, Hammock responded, “We must protect our environment so the land and water will be here for all of us and for generations to come.”
