By Maggie Edwards

The Alabama Farmers Federation welcomed Christopher Prevatt as commodity director for Beef, Equine, Hay & Forage and Sheep & Goat divisions Sept. 6. 

Prevatt, who grew up in Auburn, said he is excited to be back on familiar turf in his home state. He thanked the Federation for providing the opportunity to learn from and work with Alabama farmers and ranchers. 

“When I wake up each morning, this is the job I want to do,” Prevatt said. “Working in grazing animal production and with different forages in Alabama is a great passion of mine. I know the Alabama Farmers Federation is the place for me.” 

Prevatt is a two-time graduate of Auburn University (AU). He received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Agricultural Business and Economics, in 2011 and 2013 respectively.

He comes to the Federation after eight years with the University of Florida (UF), where he was a state Extension specialist focused on beef cattle and forage economics to help farmers develop more sustainable, profitable operations.

In his role with UF, Prevatt evaluated the marketing of feeder calves, conducted economic analysis of agricultural inputs and developed management strategies for livestock and forage producers. He also trained county Extension faculty across Florida in beef management.

Prevatt co-owns and operates Prevatt Farms, a stocker cattle and cow-calf operation in Furman, Alabama, and Starke, Florida, with his father, Walt and mother, Peggy. The elder Prevatt is a well-known, retired AU ag economist who passed to his son a penchant for wrangling cattle profits.

Federation Governmental & Agricultural Programs Department Director Mitt Walker praised Prevatt’s past experiences with the cattle industry.

Walker said Prevatt’s knowledge and strong ties to Alabama agriculture will make him an asset to the organization’s commodity team.

“Chris understands our farmers and their needs, concerns and opportunities for growth,” said Walker. “We’re excited for him to put boots on the ground and become an active part of the Federation.” 

Prevatt and wife Trisha, a veterinarian, live in Montgomery and are expecting their first child in February.