UF/IFAS Volusia County Extension Services is recognizing the outstanding work of Volusia Farmers. In a new program, Volusia Farm of the Quarter, local agriculture producers will be highlighted, helping residents become familiar with local farm operations. Award winners get a framed certificate and bragging rights.
The idea, says Kalan Taylor, Ag and Natural Resources Agent II, came during the 2020 Farm Tour. Volusia County Farm Bureau and Extension Services host the annual event in November.
“People are always commenting on how they wish they knew about this farm or that farm so we figured having a ‘Farm of the Quarter’ would allow our office the opportunity to showcase and support the farms within our community. The program also allows the farms another avenue to market their products to the consumer. The overall goal is to help support and grow our local food system and this is just a simple way to help do that,” said Taylor.
The very first farm featured is Benedict Farms in New Smyrna Beach. The family has been farming there since Bill Benedict’s great-grandfather moved to the U.S. from Slovenia, married and purchased 10 acres in about 1934. He expanded his farm to 40 acres, which were then farmed by his sons and grandsons. Bill and Sheryl Benedict started their own operation on 7 acres a year ago after his uncle retired. Bill Benedict’s farm grows row crops – beets, kale, collard, lettuce, onions, peppers. “A little bit of everything,” said Benedict.
Benedict has a degree in Ag Operations and Management from University of Florida and uses ecologically responsible methods on his farm. He remodeled his grandparent’s original home to be used as a produce stand.
“What I want to accomplish is just to grow enough for the stand. We also buy in what we don’t grow and what’s not in season so people can have a variety when they come to shop. We’re still growing. It’s only been a year. In two or three years time it’ll be a staple for the community for fresh produce,” said Benedict.
Benedict Farms produce stand is located at 705 Airport Road, New Smyrna Beach. It’s open Friday 1-6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m. For more information call or text 386-846-4479.
“Recognizing our local farmers is more important than ever. Local food is fresher, because it doesn’t have to travel the average 1,500 miles that other foods have to travel, local food lets consumers invest in the preservation of their local economy and environment, and local food systems enhance the social relationships between farmers and consumers.
“Not only is it important to recognize these local farmers, it is even more important to support them. People can support their local farmers by ‘voting’ with their food dollars. The more active your local food economy/system, the stronger it will grow. Local food systems keep local agriculture economies viable and help preserve natural resources and rural land areas,” said Taylor.
Farmers can qualify for Farm of the Quarter if their operation is in Volusia County. Taylor will meet with interested farmers. Please contact her at 386-822-5778 or by email kagers02@ufl.edu.