HERMITAGE, Ark. – In the heart of Bradley County, amidst the lush fields and rolling landscapes, lies the home of the esteemed Harrod family, recipients of this year’s prestigious Bradley County Farm Family of the Year award. The Harrod family, led by patriarch Brad Harrod, has dedicated themselves to the art of farming for three generations, cultivating the land with unwavering passion and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
This article is brought to you by the following sponsors who congratulate the Brad and Melissa Harrod Family on being named the 2023 Bradley County Farm Family of the Year:
Nestled near the community of Hermitage, the Harrod farm serves as a testament to their deep-rooted connection to the land. Brad Harrod, along with his loving wife Mellissa, has instilled their passion for farming in their children, Emily Rippy, Sarah Briscoe, Whitney Jolley, Braden Harrod, Olivia Harrod, and Jensen Harrod. Together, they form a united force, working hand in hand to uphold the family’s agricultural legacy.
The Harrod farm thrives on a diverse range of crops, showcasing their mastery in the field. Among their major crops are tomatoes, watermelons, cantaloupe, squash, cucumber, 18 varieties of peppers, pumpkins, gourds, and an array of vibrant annual flowers. With their rich and fruitful harvests, the Harrods have become a staple in the local community, providing fresh and quality produce to the residents of South Arkansas.
This family’s journey in farming began several decades ago when Brad’s grandfather, Jimmy Harrod, first established the operation near Eagle Lake in Bradley County. As a child, Brad fondly recalls exploring the land and discovering arrowheads near ancient Indian mounds, igniting a curiosity and reverence for the heritage that runs through the veins of their farm.
After a relocation to Ingalls, the Harrod family returned to their agricultural roots. In 1987, with Brad at the helm and armed with a degree in Veterinary Science from the University of Arkansas and further education from Auburn, Brad Harrod brought newfound knowledge and innovative techniques to the farm. In 1988, the first crop under Brad’s leadership bloomed, marking a new chapter in the Harrod family’s farming legacy.
For Brad, farming is not merely a profession; it is a way of life. “I love growing stuff. I love seeing it grow,” he remarks with a gentle smile. His passion for nurturing the land and experimenting with new varieties is evident in the bountiful produce that graces their fields. To Brad, the gratification derived from witnessing the fruits of his labor is immeasurable.
In addition to their farm, the Harrod family operates Hermit Corner Produce, a beloved local market where they sell their vibrant flowers and fresh produce. Over the years, the family has witnessed the evolution of the industry. “Watermelons are big now,” Brad notes, attributing their success to an expanding customer base. Buyers from El Dorado, Strong, Warren, Texarkana, Magnolia, and beyond eagerly procure their produce, and peddlers from as far away as Tulsa make the journey to partake in the Harrods’ harvest.
As time passed, the farm and the family adapted to the changes brought about by modern technology. Brad’s children introduced social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok, bringing a new wave of connectivity and exposure to the farm. Technological advancements such as black plastic and drip irrigation have revolutionized their farming practices, allowing for more precise and efficient cultivation. However, Brad remains firm in his belief that a hands-on approach still yields the best results.
In an era of rapid change and shifting landscapes, the Harrod family remains grounded in their values and the teachings passed down from generations prior. Brad fondly reminisces about his father, who instilled in them the importance of hard work and dedication. “Daddy always taught us to work,” he says, emphasizing the timeless values that have shaped their farming practices.
As the Harrod family looks toward the future, they continue to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Brad’s son, Braden Harrod, has already taken his first steps in following in his father’s footsteps by opening a stand in Fayetteville, further expanding the family’s presence and influence in the agricultural community.
The Bradley County Farm Family of the Year award serves as a testament to the Harrod family’s unwavering commitment to the land, their dedication to their craft, and their deep-rooted love for farming. Their legacy of excellence and their contributions to the community make them true agricultural ambassadors. With each passing season, the Harrod family continues to sow seeds of love, dedication, and hard work, nurturing not only the land but also a thriving agricultural heritage. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and importance of the farming way of life—a way of life that echoes through generations, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape and in the hearts of all who encounter it.
Wonderful article!! Congratulations on the very deserving honor!! Your family and your village should be equally proud