Hugh Lowell Taylor named Manatee Agriculturist of the Year

Citrus grower and cattle rancher Hugh Lowell Taylor, 65, came to the Agriculturist of the Year luncheon Tuesday expecting to deliver an address on the challenges of citrus greening.

But when fair manager Dan West announced that Taylor was Agriculturist of the Year, it brought Taylor to tears as his wife Linda, and daughters Alicia and Amanda surprised him with a family embrace.

A life-long resident of Myakka City, Taylor grew up working alongside his father on their two ranches, according to his nomination.

Hugh Taylor is now owner and part owner and manager of three companies —Taylor Cattle & Citrus, Taylor Farms and Taylor Ranch — that manage more than 2,400 acres, more than 500 head of cattle, and 60 acres of citrus groves.

“While Hugh has dedicated his life to maintaining his family tradition, he has already established his own legacy for future generations as a leader and innovator,” the nomination said.

West noted that Taylor’s service on many agricultural and civic boards “embodies the idea of civic involvement.”

In brief remarks to the Kiwanis luncheon where the award is presented annual, the visibly moved Taylor said, “Thank you very much. I appreciate it and God bless all of you.”

Like previous recipients of the Agriculturist of the Year Award, Taylor is a leader, an innovator, and a trail blazer in the community, West said.

“While Hugh’s focus has been on cattle and citrus industries, he has never lost sight of the overarching goal of supporting and sustaining agriculture in Manatee County and in Florida,” the nomination said.

“Perhaps amongst Hugh’s most substantial contributions in his involvement with and leadership of the Manatee River Fair Association,” the nomination said. “He truly believes that installing a passion and knowledge for agriculture in our youth is vital to sustaining the industry.”

Taylor has served as a board member of the Myakka City Fire Control District, is a lifelong member of the Myakka City United Methodist Church, and is a supporter of the Myakka City Historical Society, which is striving to save the community’s 1914 schoolhouse.

Lisa Gaskalla of the Youth in Agriculture program was guest speaker at Tuesday’s luncheon, hosted by the Bradenton Kiwanis Club in the Manatee Performing Arts Center.

Less that 10 percent of Earth’s land is suitable for agriculture, and by 2050, farmers will have 9 billion people to feed, she said.

“Educating youth about agriculture is paramount in our book,” Gaskella said.

This story was originally published November 15, 2016 at 1:59 PM with the headline "Hugh Lowell Taylor named Manatee Agriculturist of the Year."