FL Agricultural Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

Florida’s agricultural community recently celebrated some of its most impactful leaders. On October 23, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, alongside the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame Foundation, announced the 2025 Hall of Fame inductees.

Simpson remarked, “Cary and Marcia Lightsey, Madeline Mellinger, and Jim Strickland have each made remarkable contributions that extend well beyond their own operations, driving progress in conservation, sustainability, and leadership.”

The Lightseys are sixth-generation cattle ranchers committed to conservation, with over 80% of their land in conservation easements, safeguarding thousands of acres and preserving Florida’s natural landscapes. Mellinger, a pioneer in integrated pest management, transformed Florida’s approach to crop protection while mentoring future agricultural leaders. Strickland, with six decades in ranching, has advocated tirelessly for conservation funding to protect Florida’s ranchlands.

For more on each, visit https://www.fdacs.gov/News-Events/Press-Releases/2024-Press-Releases/Commissioner-Wilton-Simpson-Announces-2025-Florida-Agricultural-Hall-of-Fame-Inductees