Why Darren Pert is proud to be a farmer

MALVERN, Alabama (WTVY) – Darren Pert headed to a quiet intersection on County Road 49 in Geneva County where he began his work.

“I started farming right after high school. Thanks to my family, I bought my first pickup truck on this farm, in a field full of watermelons,” Pert said.

While his grandfather introduced him to country life, Pert focused on a life in the police force.

He served as an Alabama state police officer for 25 years before returning to farming.

“This was another dream of mine, but I had to get my hands dirty, I had to get back to the farm,” Pert said. “You can leave the farm, but if it's in your blood, you'll come back.”

With the help of his dedicated team, Pert Farms has grown into a center for growing agricultural products for locals and travelers.

Pert is grateful for the success and the connections it has made, but worries about the future of farms like his in Geneva County.

“There are no newcomers to fruit and vegetable farming, as we call it,” Pert admitted.

He encourages everyone who wants to become a fruit and vegetable farmer to join them in the process.

“These local fruit and vegetable farms are looking for young people to work there. They will introduce you to the side of it all,” Pert explained. “If they're interested and don't live on a family farm, that's the best way to go. Work on one of these fruit and vegetable farms during the summer months when you're not in school.”

Pert promises that the hard work will be worth it.

“Watching a seed grow into something edible is something I'm really proud of,” Pert said. “I walk or drive through these fields every day and see the progress.”

If you know someone who is proud to be a farmer, email us at [email protected]

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