Steve (Beaver) and Michelle Yoder own and operate Crooked Creek Farms, LLC in Jackson and Calhoun County. Crooked Creek Farms, LLC raises beef cattle as a stocker and backgrounding operation, also keeping a few pairs in the herd for the cow/calf side of the industry. The 3rd generation farm is a family-run business with members of the family having an active role in the prosperity of the farm.

Crooked Creek Farms, LLC has continuously implemented BMPs since 2008. 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 using no-till or conservation tillage for planting grazing land, cross fencing or fencing of sensitive areas to allow for animal rotation and protection of waterbodies. Yoder is diligent about using Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) practices and goes the extra mile in implementing low stress livestock handling. It is practices like these that ensure their land will remain productive and viable for future generations.

Yoder is involved in his community as a member to the Farm Bureau, Big River and Florida Cattlemen’s Associations, Georgia/Florida Soybean Association, Florida Peanut Producers, and supports local 4-H Livestock clubs.

When asked what he enjoys most about farming, Yoder responded, “I enjoy the people that I get to work amongst. This includes neighbors, local suppliers, extension personnel, family members and support industry personnel. There is not another industry that has so many high quality folks to be with. I enjoy the fact that I get to produce food and fiber for so many other people.”