The Boothes

Paul Hooks’ connection to Prairie County runs deep. His great-grandfather started their farming operation at the turn of the 19th century. Today, Paul and his brother Dan operate under Wolf Creek Farms, Inc., established in the early 1980s.

When asked about why he went into agriculture, Derek Haigwood says, "it was just a good fit.”

With deep roots in agriculture and a passion for his craft, Lawson Fielder embodies the spirit of Riceland's farmer-owned cooperative. For over 15 years, Lawson has been a dedicated member of the co-op, farming rice, and soybeans on his family's operation, Fielder 3 Farms.

Not only does Kyle Schlenker enjoy eating rice, but he also enjoys growing it on his family’s farm in Cross County, Arkansas.

Jennifer McMeans stands out in a field where grit and determination are second nature. Growing up on her family farm, Jennifer’s story is deeply rooted in agriculture—a life she's known since she was a little girl riding on a tractor.

“I think of sustainability as it applies to our farm and land as maintaining and protecting our natural resources—the water, soil, and air quality on which my business and family depend.”