Redmond Greenwell, a sixth-generation farmer from Morganfield, Kentucky, is making an impact in the agricultural community through his leadership roles and participation in Kentucky Corn’s CORE program. With a passion for farming, Redmond is dedicated to continuing his family’s farm legacy and ensuring the success of Greenwell Acres, a 7500-acre farm growing corn and soybeans and raising cattle.
Growing up on the family farm, Greenwell developed a love for the agricultural industry. He recalls even trying to play hooky from school to spend more time on the farm. Today, he works in ag retail, selling seed, chemicals, and fertilizer, while also working on the family farm during busy seasons.
The family farm, Greenwell Acres, is deeply rooted in generations of farmers. Greenwell’s father, three uncles, and their sons all play a significant role in the operations of the farm. With his decision-making involvement, Greenwell continues to shape the future of Greenwell Acres, ensuring its continued success in the years to come.
Having been a member of the local Corn Growers Association since 1999, Greenwell’s grandfather understood the significant role organizations like the Kentucky Corn Growers Association (KYCGA) play in the agricultural community. His grandfather emphasized the importance of attending meetings and actively engaging with the association. Just as his family has done for generations, Greenwell has participated in his local association and is now serving in a leadership role as president.
As president of the Union County Corn Growers Association, Greenwell outlined priorities to amplify the impact of the state Corn Growers Association’s advocacy and educational efforts. He aims to continue educating urban consumers about the role corn plays in feeding livestock and the production of biofuels. Additionally, Greenwell is committed to protecting local and state corn markets, championing the interests of farmers in the face of ever-changing political landscapes.
Serving on the state corn board, Redmond plays a role in bridging the gap between the local and state levels. He says he wants to stay at the forefront of political changes and continue to share new research and information with members.
Encouraging fellow corn growers to support organizations like KYCGA, Redmond highlights their work in helping protect corn markets and investing checkoff funds into industries such as ethanol, poultry, and distilleries. He also acknowledges their efforts in advocating for atrazine and the farm bill.
In addition to serving on the corn boards, Greenwell is currently in his second year of the CORE Farmer program. Greenwell says the program has provided him with valuable insights and practical knowledge that he’s been able to implement back on the farm.
One key takeaway has been the importance of estate planning. Through the CORE program, Greenwell was able to have open discussions with his family about the need to prepare for the future. Another area Greenwell has gained valuable insight is in various technologies that enhance efficiencies on their farm, like the John Deere Operations Center providing real-time information on the location of their semis and equipment.
Through the CORE program, Greenwell says he has gained valuable insights from farmers, bankers, agronomists, and researchers who have generously shared their experiences. Greenwell has amassed a wealth of knowledge, from practical record-keeping advice to effective fleet management.
His classmates’ perspectives have also broadened his knowledge of different farming practices. Learning from the experiences and knowledge of his peers, Greenwell has been able to break some of the barriers that kept them from implementing new ways of doing things on their farm. The camaraderie between classmates has resulted in a group text constantly buzzing with discussions about what is working and what isn’t. Greenwell is eager to continue sharing ideas and staying connected with his classmates by establishing a peer group.
The program’s impact extends beyond a classroom setting. Greenwell and his classmates have participated in farm tours across Kentucky, and recently, nationally. In January, they toured vegetable and alfalfa production in the Yuma and Imperial Valley regions of California to learn about leafy green vegetable production and irrigation practices.
With these lessons, Greenwell says he has filled a notebook with the knowledge he’s culminated, ranging from the advice of banking professionals to 80-year-old seasoned farmers.
He shared some of the words of wisdom he’s written down:
- Don’t linger, always adapt
- Talk to your banker more often than you think
- Be a lifelong learner
- Know your cost per acre
- Be willing to take risks
- It’s okay to ask for advice
- Keep service records
- Surround yourself with people who have your best interests in mind
- Keep your farm up to date on laws and regulations
- There is no such thing as a stupid question
Greenwell exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and lifelong learning. He and his wife prepare to welcome their son in the Spring and are eagerly looking forward to raising him on the farm, instilling in him the values and traditions that have shaped their lives.