NRCS Assistance for Mississippi Small Farmer

Brybena Wyatt (NRCS photo -- click to enlarge)

Brybena Wyatt lights up when she talks about her farm. It is her livelihood but it is also a source of great pride. And thanks to NRCS, her operation is in better shape than ever. Through the NRCS Environmental Quality Incentives Program Brybena was able to build grade stabilization structures to control erosion and the Mississippi NRCS Small Farm Initiative Program has provided her with a watering source for livestock and cross-fencing. “We are committed to helping Mrs. Wyatt and other small landowners who need information about NRCS programs and providing technical assistance to put conservation on the land,” says Port Gibson, Mississippi NRCS District Conservationist Earl McMillan.

The Port Gibson, Mississippi vegetable, timber, and beef cattle farmer has farmed her whole life. And although, at the age of 88, she now farms in partnership with her son, she still participates in the decision-making process and she still gets her hands dirty working with her vegetables and cows.

At one time she grew peanuts and sorghum through the Alcorn State University Extension Small Farm Outreach Program. She has also assisted with a hybrid sweet corn demonstration and planted switch grass to determine how well it would control erosion. In addition, she participated in a project designed to show the benefits of no-till over conventional tillage methods, and she uses an overhead sprinkler system as part of a conservation project.

Each year, she grows about six acres of produce and raises some 100 head of cattle. She also manages 30 acres of timber and pastureland. Her son works full-time in Jackson, but helps out when he can, usually on the weekends.

“Do you see these tomatoes?” she asked, picking her way carefully down a garden row. “Don’t they look good? The weather was dry this year and that hurt, but I love farming.
I grow vegetables year-round, selling to people who visit my farm. It’s always a challenge.”

Like any successful farmer, Brybena is constantly looking at new and better ways to make a profit. She appreciates the assistance she gets from NRCS, Alcorn State University, and other agricultural agencies and organizations.
Your contact is Jeannine May, NRCS public affairs specialist, at 601-965-4337.