More than a century has passed since Chip Stacey’s greatgrandfather began farming the land near Evergreen in Conecuh County. Today, four generations later, Stacey counts the family farm as his greatest blessing.”I take pride in knowing that my ancestors have passed on to me a family heritage and the true meaning of hard work,” said Stacey. “Our family farm has come a long way since 1897. The hardship it’s had to overcome with each change has only improved the farm. I’ve learned that it’s not what you own or how much you own, it’s how you manage it.”And Stacey Farm is managing quite well.
A TREASURE Forest landowner, Stacey manages 1,938 acres, including 523 acres in planted pines, 700 acres in mixed timber, 495 acres of hay and open pastures, and 220 tillable acres.Through selective cutting and thinning of timber, and by growing soybean food plots, Stacey uses his forestland to enhance wildlife and their habitat. In doing so, he has created extra income for the farm through the hunting club the farm has operated for 28 years.The forest around Stacey Farm is abundant with deer, quail, turkey, dove and ducks. Following a deer management program set by a state wildlife biologist, Stacey also follows a supplemental feeding program during the off-season, and food plots are planted in the winter.”Being raised on the farm, it becomes a part of you,” said Stacey.