IMMOKOLEE — JB Ranch, a commercial cow-calf operation in Immokalee, received the 2021 Environmental Stewardship Award from the Florida Cattlemen’s Association. The statewide award signifies the commitment of owners Liesa and Russell Priddy in following agricultural, conservation and environmental best management practices.

The recognition program began in 1991, commending cattle producers for the everyday activities performed to preserve and enhance natural resources. Gene Lollis, president of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, presented the award on June 17 during the Cattlemen’s Banquet portion of the group’s annual meeting.

Sustainability initiatives put in place by the Priddys include the installation of seven solar-powered wells to provide water for cattle troughs; creation of 650 acres of water reservoirs for water retention and conservation; natural habitat restoration; and utilization of prescribed burning to support soil rejuvenation. The operation’s cattle grazing supports weed and brush management, especially for non-native vegetation, in turn providing natural habitat improvement.

“We plan for sustainability in all of our actions at JB Ranch,” said Liesa Priddy, third-generation owner and operator of the 9,500-acre ranch. “My grandfather began caring for these lands in the 1940s, and our cow-calf operation has benefited greatly from investments over time in best management practices and modern grazing strategies. It’s an honor to carry the tradition forward.”

A recognized rural lands policy advocate in Southwest Florida, Liesa Priddy served as a Florida Fish and Wildlife commissioner and played a key role in the development of the Rural Land Stewardship Area program as a member of the Eastern Collier Property Owners. JB Ranch is an active participant in multiple university- and state agency-sponsored research studies.

Lollis said the Priddys are a model for sustainable cattle ranching operations. “Liesa and Russell Priddy have gone above and beyond in demonstrating their commitment to responsible, sustainable practices at JB Ranch,” said Lollis. “The Florida Cattlemen’s Association is pleased to recognize their generational leadership with the 2021 Environmental Stewardship Award.”