Pete Clemons, Clemons Oak Creek , Okeechobee
Jeff Clemons and the Clemons’ Family own and operate Clemons Oak Creek in Okeechobee, Florida. The farm has been in the family for several decades and was started by Jeff’s father Pete Clemons, in the late 1970’s. They proudly produce cattle. Mr. Clemons has been implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) on the farm since the 1970’s. 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. Clemons Oak Creek uses a rotational grazing system to improve pasture longevity, allow for timely utilization of forage and increase the stocking rates. A series of risers are used to reduce the amount of runoff and allows sediment to settle before leaving the land. Mr. Clemons has multiple wells throughout the ranch that serve as a fresh water source for the cattle. Soil samples are taken yearly to determine the correct amount of lime and/or fertilizer to be applied to the land.
Mr. Clemons is actively involved in his local community. He is a part of the local Youth Rodeo Association and also works closely with Faith Farm Ministries in the rehabilitation of people in their community. He and his family attend Faith Farm Church in Okeechobee. When asked why he is a farmer who CARES, Clemons responded, “for the preservation of the bovine and human species.”
