2011 Commercial Producer of the Year

2011 Commercial Producer of the Year

Chris Hardee

The 2011 Commercial Producer of the Year award was given to Chris Hardee. This fifth-generation producer can trace roots back to the 1850’s when his ancestors started breeding tough, rugged cattle in central Florida. Hardee’s father and grandfather partnered after World War II, and in 1956 they bought Angus cattle and began to breed up their Hereford/Brahman cattle. It became obvious to them that the heat-tolerant, parasite resistant Brahman and Angus cross cattle excelled in the humid Florida climate.

“We’re very honored and humbled to have received this award. To us, there is no greater recognition than to be recognized by your peers,” Hardee said. “We are about goals and objectives and about working hard.”

Hardee Farms became registered IBBA members in 1972. In 2001 Hardee developed a composite breed of cattle from Brangus and Charolais genetics to place more emphasis on yield and e$ciency. He was recognized as the 1997 Brangus Breeder of the Year. Hardee also served the IBBA on the Board of Directors and was appointed President in 1998-1999.