When my friends in Washington, D.C., ask me about Florida, like many people outside the state, they often think of Florida only for its sunshine and beaches. Many of them are surprised to hear that Florida is also home to some of the largest cattle ranches in the country. For almost 500 years, the cattle industry has contributed significantly to Florida’s economy and natural resources. Multi-generational family ranches have cared for the land, provided employment for many residents and contributed greatly to the local tax base.
I’ve had the opportunity to meet with several Florida ranchers, and I am encouraged by their love for their country and for their state. As a 22-year veteran of the U. S. Army, I value “straight talk”, character and patriotism. Florida’s ranchers have shown me all of these things, and I appreciate them for it. Florida’s cattle producers are good stewards of the land as owners and caretakers of thousands of acres of pristine native range and pasture land.