Watermelon Pond Plantation

Watermelon Pond Plantation, Levy County

Kate Boulos operates Watermelon Pond Plantation in Archer, Florida. She took over management of the farm in the early 2000’s. She proudly produces longleaf pines and provides wildlife habitat. Ms. Boulos has been implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) on the farm since 2001. BMPs are a set of guidelines that advise producers on how to manage the water, nutrient, and pesticides they are using to reduce agriculture’s impact on the state’s natural resources. Watermelon Pond Plantation practices prescribed burns to control diseases, reduce competition and establish native vegetation that benefits wildlife. Prescribed burns also control various pest problems that can stunt tree growth or lead to tree mortality. Ms. Boulos is a member of Florida Farm Bureau and enjoys raising and training bird dogs in her spare time. When asked why she is a farmer who CARES, Boulos responded, “to have something to enjoy in the future”