Jason Dicks, Kenneth O. Dicks Farms, Columbia
Jason and Kiersten Dicks own and operate Kenneth O. Dicks Farms, Inc., in both Columbia and Union County. The farm was started in 1975 and today proudly produces peanuts, corn, cattle, brown Top, oats, rye seed, pine straw, and peas. It is a family-run business with all members of the family having an active role in the prosperity of the farm. Kenneth O. Dicks Farms, Inc. has implemented BMPS for the past 12-15 years. BMPs are a set of guidelines that advise producers on how to manage the water, nutrient, and pesticides they are using to reduce agriculture’s impact on the state’s natural resources. Some of the BMPs that have been implemented include GPS Guided Fertilizer Application and fencing off wetlands. By utilizing cross fencing or fencing of sensitive areas, it allows for animal rotation and protection of waterbodies. Tractor’s GPS guided fertilizer applications are helpful when applying needed fertilizer to specific areas. These practices ensure that their land will remain productive and viable for future generations.
Dicks is involved in his community as a member of the Hopeful Baptist Church in Columbia County. He also attends meetings that address issues in farming throughout their community as they arise and time permits. When asked why he thinks it is important to protect our environment, Dicks responded, “It is important because we have to live in it and so do our children, as well as future generations. If we are good to the environment, it will in turn be good to us.” Dicks enjoys farming mostly because he loves being outdoors and knowing that what he is planting will benefit and feed others; “That’s a good feeling to know that I’m making a difference!”
