Agriculture is a way of life for many people in the South. And here at Perdido River Farms (PRF), it’s no different. As the agricultural arm of the Poarch Creek Indians, PRF oversees large lots of Tribally-owned agricultural property and manages a commercial cow/calf operation. PRF also hosts 4-H and FFA events, such as the Escambia County 4-H Steer & Heifer Show and the Alabama South District FFA Fall Eliminations.

Cattle Production

PRF manages more than 700 head of momma cows and 35 bulls. With a spring calving season, staff are able to wean calves in the fall. Heifers are sorted for replacement females that will either go back into the PRF herd or be sold. Steers will be sorted and weighed to be marketed as truckload lots consisting of 50,000 pounds. Improvement efforts in cattle quality are reached through bull selection and artificial insemination on replacement heifers.

Efforts

Perdido River Farms is very conscientious of maintaining, protecting and preserving “Mother Earth.” PRF works closely with the Natural Resources Conservation Service Tribal office to implement best stewardship practices for the farm. In 2014, PRF was recognized with the State Environmental Stewardship Award by the Alabama Cattleman’s Association.

PRF partners with USDA agencies, state agencies and other organizations to provide educational venues and training opportunities to inform Tribal Members, landowners and agency staff of the various programs available to assist them in best management practices of their natural resources.

Farming Operations

Perdido River Farms manages 2,900 acres of Tribal agricultural properties, consisting of 650 acres that are planted with summer and winter crops for cattle grazing and 450 acres of hay ground. Good conservation of Tribal lands through soil testing, proper fertilization, and rotational grazing produces good quality grazing forage and hay.

4-H Program

Members of the Poarch Creek 4-H Club work with animals, practice leadership, participate in contests, go on field trips, make new friendships, and go camping. Youth, ages 9-18, may sign up at any time throughout the year. Meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at PRF.