DADE CITY, Fla. — On October 14, two Hernando/Citrus County farm families were recognized for their sustainable farming practices. Marjorie R. Sellers Irrevocable Trust of Brooksville and Rooks Family of Inverness were awarded a This Farm CARES award by the Florida Farm Bureau Federation. This prestigious award is given to farmers and ranchers enrolled in Best Management Practice.
Marjorie R. Sellers Irrevocable Trust, owned by William Sellers, raises beef cattle and is a restorative place for longleaf pine trees. Sellers focuses on nurturing the land and ecosystems to help preserve wildlife habitats, protect water systems and promote biodiversity.
Rooks Family farm is owned and operated by brothers Larry and Eugene Rooks. They raise beef cattle and grow seed and hay. They strive to protect the environment by keeping waterways clean, provide healthy and safe areas for their cattle and maintain a balanced ecosystem for wildlife.
The CARES award was created to recognize Florida’s farmers and ranchers for their efforts to drastically reduce water use, effectively manage nutrient programs to protect water quality through the latest innovative technology to accomplish their conservation goals. The farm families recognized were awarded a sign to display at their farm entrance to showcase their commitment to conserving and preserving Florida’s natural resources.
The CARES program was created in partnership by Florida Farm Bureau, UF/IFAS and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Since its establishment in 2001, over 900 farms and ranches have been recognized across Florida.
Florida Farm Bureau, the state’s largest general agricultural organization, represents more than 132,000 member-families. We serve to enhance farm enterprise and improve rural communities.
Provided by Florida Farm Bureau Federation