Huey Hawkins, Hawkins Farm, Columbia
Huey Hawkins and his family own and operate Hawkins Farm in Ft. White, Florida. The farm was established in 1973 where the Hawkins family proudly produces cattle. Mr. Hawkins has been implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) on the farm since 1973. 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. Hawkins Farm uses a rotational grazing system to improve pasture longevity, allow for more timely utilization of forage and conserve surplus forage. Mr. Hawkins has fenced off the natural wetlands and other sensitive areas throughout the farm to keep the cattle from disturbing the habitat. He uses water troughs to supply water to the cattle. Mr. Hawkins also practices nutrient and pest management.
Mr. Hawkins and his family are actively involved in their local church community and are members of the Florida Farm Bureau. When asked why he is a farmer who CARES, Hawkins responded, “to maintain the quality of life and to keep land productive.”
