Clate and Mindy Jones’ story is one of tradition, innovation and an unwavering passion for agriculture. It's a legacy built on the foresight of Clate’s father, Thomas, who, after buying his family farm in 1984, saw an opportunity to cultivate something truly special. Instead of growing commodity corn for feed or ethanol, he began a journey to breed specialty corn genetics used for food products like chips, tortillas and bourbon.
A Labor of Love and Legacy
Creating a new hybrid grain is a long and challenging process. It requires years of meticulous work, with no guarantee of success. While large corporations have the resources to speed up the process with global breeding grounds, this family-owned operation takes a more deliberate, hands-on approach.
“I started my own breeding project in 1989 and developed and raised a blue corn hybrid,” Thomas said. The family understands the patience required, as a new hybrid can take up to eight years to perfect in their climate. “Success comes from persistence,” Clate said. “You throw away 99.9% of what you do, but you're looking for that one breakthrough.” Their dedication allows them to produce unique products that can't be found anywhere else.
A Family Tradition
Farming is more than a business for the Jones family—it's a lifestyle passed down through generations. Both Clate and Mindy grew up in agriculture, and their shared passion for the land brought them together. While born and raised in the same rural Western Kentucky community, the couple didn’t meet until they both attended Murray State University to pursue agricultural degrees. They each shared how important it was to find a partner who both understands and lives the agricultural lifestyle; a fact Mindy jokingly credits as one she knows her parents were overjoyed by.
Mindy, who holds a master's degree in agronomy, believes it's vital to connect consumers with the people who grow their food. Mindy said, “We are doing everything we can to raise good quality food.” She wants people to know that family farmers are passionate about raising high-quality food, not just making a profit. This commitment to quality and transparency is at the heart of their operations, ensuring the legacy continues for their young daughters and future generations.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Partnerships
The life of a farmer is not without its hardships. Weather, like the excessive heat and drought they've experienced, can cause immense stress and affect yields. Despite these challenges, the family remains dedicated to their craft. As their business has grown, they've found support in key partnerships.
Their relationship with Farm Credit Mid-America has been particularly crucial, providing the financial backing needed to expand their operation. Clate said, “Farm Credit Mid-America has been a great partner. They’ve been with us since we started our own operations and have stuck with us as it's been expanding.” The communication and support have made a significant difference, helping the couple continue to innovate and pursue new projects, including a recent land purchase.
Clate and Mindy’s story is a powerful reminder of the passion, hard work and values that define rural communities. It’s a testament to the satisfaction of building a legacy from the ground up, proving that with enough dedication, even the smallest operation can make an impact.
Learn more about Farm Credit Mid-America’s support of young, beginning and small farmers through the Growing Forward® program.
