If you are a regular reader of this column, you know my mind has a mind of its own. I will always have a S.C. farm boy view of the world because I realize that I learned all the important things in life growing up watching mama pick cotton and as soon as I could drag a harvest shack picking cotton myself. My parents brought me up to take myself lightly but work hard and take pride in my work. After working with other S.C. farmers for more than 50 years I believe most farmers were also taught this by their parents. In today’s society it seems, however, many folks want to jump up and down and let everyone know how great they are without the work to back it up. Humility and dignity have been tossed out the window.
This may be one of the reasons why it is so hard for me to get farmers to apply for our S.C. Farm of the Year Contest. Really, this is also one of the reasons why we call it the “Farm of the Year” instead of the “Farmer of the Year” contest. Every farmer should be, with no reservations, proud of his farm — his life’s work.
This is where each of you may help. It is fashionable today to connect to where your food comes from, so if you are or know of anyone who is a S.C. farmer, please have them send the following information by Friday to Tony Melton, Florence County Extension Service, 2685 S. Irby St., Florence, SC 29505 or e-mail amelton@clemson.edu:
1. All contact information.
2. Farm name
3. Farm size
4. Farm cropping/livestock.
5. Describe how you manage your labor, machinery and technical assets to maximize efficiency.
6. Describe your plans to boost biodiversity, protect natural resources, reduce carbon footprint and engage with the public.
7. Do you participate in agritourism or other agribusiness ventures?
8. Are you a member of South Carolina Certified Grown?
ArborOne Farm Credit has graciously agreed to sponsor the 2nd Annual S.C. Farm of the Year Contest. “A little recognition for a job well-done, especially with a prize, never hurt anybody,” as my daddy would say.
To learn the specifics on gardening, we have both free and for-sale publications at our office in the back of the public services building on the corner of Third Loop Road and South Irby Street. You may also visit our Home & Garden Information Center through our website at The Clemson University Cooperative.
To learn more about decorating, gardening and country living, watch our Emmy Award-winning television program, Making-It-Grow (MIG). MIG can be seen at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays on regular ETV or on the web at www.mig.org.
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