From Dairy to Rice with Tim Walker
On my latest episode of the Field Good Life podcast, I dive into a lively conversation with Dr. Tim Walker, CEO of Horizon Ag. Friends for many years, our conversation touched on everything from family traditions to the intricacies of rice production.
Tim's journey into the rice industry is as unique as it is inspiring. From his roots on a dairy farm in Mississippi to leading Horizon Ag, his story is a testament to following one's passion. "I love lacrosse boots," he chuckled, reminiscing about his early days in the dairy parlor and how those boots brought him right into rice fields. It's this love for the land and the people that keeps him grounded and committed to the industry.
Our conversation took a heartfelt turn as Tim shared stories of his family farm. Transitioning from dairy to beef cattle, his family's journey mirrors the resilience and adaptability that define agriculture. "You got to love cattle to fool with them," he said, a sentiment that resonates with anyone who's ever worked in animal agriculture. .
We dove into the challenges facing the rice industry, from international competition to the need for new technologies. Tim's insights into the complexities of rice production were eye-opening. "It's a double whammy," he explained, highlighting the balance between price and quality that producers must navigate.
We then reflected on the USA Rice Leadership Program, a transformative experience for both of us. "These were my people," Tim said, capturing the essence of the connections and camaraderie that the program fosters. It's a reminder of the power of community within the small rice industry and the shared passion that drives us all. The program is currently taking applications until September 5, 2025. Go to https://www.usarice.com/foundation/leadership-program/apply-now to apply!
As we wrapped up, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these stories with you. Agriculture is more than just a job; it's a way of life, a culture, and a community. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and as always, I'll see y'all in the field.
Stay tuned for more episodes and insights from the world of agriculture!
Listen here if you haven’t yet:
💚 https://open.spotify.com/episode/2adqCc5U3fJ886SMgsmhbm?si=4753e09d58bb43b0
You can also connect with me on social or visit me online: www.fieldgoodlife.com