News Meet State Young Farmers Committee Chair Denzil Dees

Meet State Young Farmers Committee Chair Denzil Dees

Meet State Young Farmers Committee Chair Denzil Dees
January 16, 2025 |

By Maggie Edwards

Fresh U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish sizzled on the grill as Denzil Dees chatted about his goals as the newly elected Alabama Farmers Federation State Young Farmers Committee chairman.

“I want to implement more agricultural literacy projects,” said Dees, who also serves as Sumter County Farmers Federation (SCFF) president.

“My hope is to advocate to younger generations about where our food and fiber come from. I want Young Farmers to continue teaching more people about the industry.”

Though the 34-year-old Monroe County native didn’t have a straight path to agriculture, his interest in cattle was piqued as a teen. Unsure of a way to get involved with farming, Dees went to technical school and worked two years as a welder.

Switching gears and enrolling at Auburn University was a blessing, he said.

“Going to Auburn changed my life,” said Dees, a 2015 agricultural business and economics graduate. “There, I met my wife, Alex; created connections in agriculture; and began my journey with Alfa through Collegiate Young Farmers.”

Alex and her parents, Sid and Susan Nelson, introduced Dees to catfish farming. The Nelsons welcomed Dees to Penala Farms, a cattle and catfish operation in Epes, with open arms — grateful for his eagerness to help carry on the 112-year-old tradition. His welding abilities were a bonus.

“It was a dream of mine for this farm to continue,” said Sid, the Federation State Catfish Committee chairman and SCFF vice president. “Alex and Denzil are an integral part of that happening. It’s been great witnessing Denzil step into influential roles, too.”

Alex echoed her dad, stating that being back on her family farm is a dream come true.

“A lot had to perfectly fall into place for this to happen,” said Alex, an electrical engineer in Demopolis. “We’re raising the farm’s fifth generation now. It’s hard to describe how special that is.”

Dees and Alex married in 2017. The couple agree their children — Kirk, 5, Leo, 3, and Dorothy, 7 months — motivate them to succeed.

“I believe in an honest day’s work,” Dees said. “Farming requires that. We base our family on faith, integrity and hard work. The kids get to see where their food comes from, and that means a lot to me.”

Alex commended her husband’s discipline and dedication.

“He gives his heart to all he does,” Alex said. “I’m excited to see what he does this year. He will pour all he has into it.”

Federation Young Farmers Division Director Hunter McBrayer agreed.

“When I think of Denzil, I think of someone who will work…and I mean work,” McBrayer said. “From his community involvement and leadership in Alfa to farm work and his role as a husband and father, I think it’s incredible how Denzil makes it all happen. The organization is blessed to have him.”

Dees said serving fellow farmers is a joy. As chairman, he joins the Federation state board as an ex-officio member.

“Alfa has a strong voice when it comes to guiding the future of the ag industry,” Dees said. “I see value in digging deep and being a part of it. The work the organization does affects my children, and my goal is to leave a legacy for them.”

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