GK Farms
GK Farms has been in operation since 1994 when Gray Smith began raising feeder pigs and later had the opportunity to develop a nursery where they grew liners for a large tree farm in the area. Since then, he has transitioned to solely raising cattle on the farm.
Gray farms on 140 acres and implement a conservation program that strives to make his land the most environmentally sound production operation that he can. Through implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) on each parcel of land Mr. Smith believes there is a unique balance that exists between all living organisms on this farm down to the bacteria and fungi in the soil. Protecting and maintaining that balance drives all the decisions we make on this farm.
Some of their most effective BMPs have included soil testing done annually with the intent to maximize forages with minimal inputs of commercial fertilizers. Mr. Gray has also started implementing Haney soil tests which show the overall soil health and microbial activity. Over the entirety of GK farms Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is used in all applicable cases and Gray is particularly aware of any chemicals that could harm dung beetle populations. Prescribed grazing is used in an intensive manner where cattle are rotated every 1-3 days. Giving forages ample time to recover is a key component to this system. This rotation also assists with fly control on the cattle eliminating the use of insecticides for fly control. No-till and minimum till are used extensively on the operation and whenever possible in the establishment and growth of all forages allowing for much greater moisture retention in our soils.
In 2017 Mr. Gray was awarded the Gilchrist County Cattleman of the year.
In regards to leadership, Gray has served on the Board of Directors for the Gilchrist County Cattleman’s Association and currently serves as the president for the Gilchrist County Farm Bureau.
When they aren’t dedicating themselves to their livelihoods, Gray and his wife Kathy Jo enjoy spending time with their families and are very involved in their church. Florida Farm Bureau Federation is proud to award a 2021 CARES designation and sign to Gray and Kathy Jo Smith for their dedication in being outstanding environmental stewards.
