December 2021
The Tri-County Agricultural Area (TCAA) includes Putnam, St. Johns and Flagler counties. The area strives to serve as a model for environmental stewardship that other areas of the state may follow. With many TCAA farms situated closely to the St. Johns River and many other critical water resources, farmers and ranchers work diligently to protect vital water resources for both their family farms and their neighbors within the community.
This year, Florida Farm Bureau proudly awarded a County Alliance for Responsible Environmental Stewardship (CARES) award to one recipient from each county during the annual Tri-County Agricultural Area CARES Luncheon. The Flagler County recipient was James Skinner, manager of Disston Ranch. From Putnam County, David Chiappini, owner of Chiappini Farm Native Nursery was recognized. The St. Johns County CARES recipient was First Farm, owned by David and Cristol Lee.
Putnam/St. Johns County Farm Bureau along with UF/IFAS Extension graciously hosted this luncheon in partnership with Farm Bureau’s CARES program. Invited guests included local government and elected officials as they are a critical audience who greatly impact agriculture as a whole. At this year’s luncheon, each recipient received a customized CARES sign to display at their farm gate or on a nearby roadway. CARES signs help farmers and ranchers demonstrate to the general public they are committed environmental stewards. Florida Farm Bureau is honored to recognize and help tell the stories of environmental stewardship for each of these deserving farm families.