Susan Watkins, a dedicated farmer from Dinwiddie County, Virginia, is making strides in preserving the family legacy while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. As she transitions her 3,500-acre farm to the eighth generation, Watkins emphasizes the importance of conservation techniques that protect the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Her efforts extend beyond local boundaries as she actively participates in national initiatives through her role with the United Soybean Board (USB). This includes advocating for American soybeans on an international scale and ensuring equitable succession planning for her farming and non-farming sons.
For generations, the Watkins family has cultivated land originally granted by the King of England. Following the passing of her husband last year, Susan embarked on a journey to transition the operation to her son Cody, all while maintaining harmony within the family. The farm employs no-till planting and cover crops to enhance soil health and minimize environmental impact. These methods are crucial due to the farm's location within the Chesapeake Bay watershed, where responsible farming practices have far-reaching ecological benefits.
Beyond managing the day-to-day operations, Watkins serves on the Executive Committee of the USB, where she promotes U.S. soybeans both domestically and abroad. During a recent trip to Guatemala and Honduras, she observed firsthand how proudly these countries label products containing American soy, sparking aspirations for similar recognition in the United States.
Sustainability is at the core of Watkins Farms' ethos. The 3,500-acre estate focuses on growing soybeans, corn, and wheat while utilizing innovative techniques like no-till planting and cover crops. Such practices not only preserve soil integrity but also safeguard the broader ecosystem encompassed by the Chesapeake Bay watershed. In response to the challenges posed by heavy soils and rolling terrain, Watkins implements waterways and other protective measures to mitigate runoff risks.
The farm’s planting schedule reflects adaptability and technological advancement. With advancements in soybean technology, Watkins Farms now prioritizes early soybean planting before corn, resulting in improved yields. This strategic shift highlights the farm's commitment to embracing innovation for better outcomes.
Succession planning plays a pivotal role in ensuring the farm remains a thriving entity for future generations. Working alongside a planner from Iowa, Watkins crafts a comprehensive strategy aimed at balancing the interests of her farming and non-farming sons. By addressing potential conflicts proactively, she seeks to maintain familial harmony and secure the farm's legacy.
On a global scale, Watkins leverages her position within the USB to champion American agriculture. Her participation in international outreach programs underscores the significance of fostering pride in domestic products. Observing the explicit labeling of U.S. soy in foreign markets inspired her desire for comparable acknowledgment within the United States, emphasizing the value of transparency and trust in food production.
In conclusion, Susan Watkins exemplifies dedication to sustainable agriculture and thoughtful succession planning. Through her leadership roles and personal endeavors, she champions practices that benefit both her family farm and the environment. Her vision extends beyond regional boundaries, advocating for increased recognition of American agricultural excellence on the world stage. As Watkins continues to guide her farm into the next generation, her efforts serve as a model for preserving tradition while embracing progress.