John O’Conner, Delta Shamrock Farms, Clay
John O’Connor began farming in 1995 on 100 acres in Lake Asbury. Since then, the cow/calf operation has expanded to nearly 500 acres in the Keystone Heights area, while adding an assortment of animals. Today Delta Shamrock Farms proudly raises cattle, horses, burrows, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, pheasants, peacocks, rabbits and pigeons. While the operation has expanded, environmental stewardship has remained a priority. Delta Shamrock Farms has shown a commitment to preserving and protecting Florida’s natural resources through the implementation of BMPs. Today they implement several BMPs including the fencing off of wetlands, which helps reduce the occurrence of stream bank damage, erosion and nutrient and bacterial loadings. They also use GPS guided applicators to prevent over spraying and minimize fertilizer exposure to water sources. And, they have regular soil tests, which are the cornerstone of a proper nutrient management plan.
In the community, O’Connor is involved with the Clay County Cattlemen’s Association where he has served as a member, officer and director over the last 15 years. He is a member of Florida Farm Bureau, and he serves as an officer and director of the Eagle Harbor Home Owners Association. When asked why he is a farmer who CARES, O’Connor said, “utilizing Best Management Practices has been beneficial and has influenced our decision making as we continue to develop our farm to its maximum potential for both ourselves and the environment.”
