Cody and Ashlee Askew, proprietors of Red River Farms, were visited by judges yesterday for the state-level judging of the Farm Family of The Year. The Farm Family of the Year is a Farm Bureau program which has been recognizing outstanding farm families in Arkansas since 1947. The Askews won Farm Family of the Year for Hempstead County and the Southwestern District so now they have proceeded to the state level. Yesterday three judges visited and toured the farm plus the 2500 sow multiplier facility with a small stop for refreshments and snacks in between.
What's even more impressive about this accomplishment is the Askews' pig facility is only in its second year. The Askews have always been farmers and prior to this they owned and operated chicken houses, but the transition to swine only occurred two years ago. Planning and building this operation took six years, but the hard work has definitely paid off. The Askews are both elated and humbled about making it to this level of judging. "We are so honored to be selected as a Farm Family and to make it to this level of judging," said Cody. " I am amazed we got picked when we've only been doing this for two years." Ashlee shared the sentiment with, "We are excited about the Farm Family Program and it is a humbling experience to have made it this far."
Others are not surprised at the Askews' accomplishments, however, and describe them as dedicated with an exceptional work ethic. Most who are familiar with them know that transitioning to swine has been their dream for years and the family has worked hard to make it a reality. Farm Credit has had a working relationship with Cody since an early age and Clay Lance, Hope Vice President and Branch Manger of Farm Credit, says the entire branch is elated that the Askews have received this honor. "We at Farm Credit are extremely proud of the Askews' accomplishments," said Lance. "Cody has been a customer of ours since he was 18, so we've helped him grow and he's helped us grow. We're so happy to see him make it to the state level of the Farm Family judging."
The judges will be traveling all over the state to visit the other Farm Family district winners, and the Arkansas Farm Family of the Year will be announced in December.
Stay tuned to SWARK.Today to find out more details about Red River Farms and the Askews in an upcoming Business Spotlight!
The entire Red River Farms crew
Cody, Ashlee, Levi, and Eli
Cody, Ashlee, the judges, and contest coordinator
Cody giving an ultrasound
Snack break with the judges
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The river view
