Tye Clark
CST Farm
Tye Clark has always believed that farm fresh produce is higher quality than its frozen counterpart , which is why he began using a high tunnel structure to grow and provide farm fresh produce to his local community . A high tunnel is a temporary structure used to extend the growing season . While Clark and his family have always been subsistence farmers , the structure provided him with the means to grow the harvest yield necessary to begin selling at farmer ’ s markets in Cameron , WV . Eating fresh and locally sourced produce is pivotal to living a healthy life , and Clark is playing an important role in making eating wholesome food accessible .
He started his business two years ago and has successfully become proficient in growing high-quality produce . He does this through soil testing , crop rotation and proper fertilization . These three combined techniques help Clark keep his quality expectations high for the yield he sells .
Through the process of running his own business , Clark has gained an early understanding of fiscal responsibility and has newfound respect for the farm-to-table process . He discovered running a business requires the development of a diverse skill set and that it takes a lot more than an in-depth knowledge of agriculture to create a meaningful business . The 11th grader ’ s impressive work ethic , humble nature and future goals are making a difference in his community .
While he spends most of his free time in the garden or tending to his hens and 20 head of cattle , Clark also hands out boxes of food at his church and works with a local organization to install irrigation systems in gardens for community members with disabilities .
Following his graduation from Cameron High School , Clark plans to attend West Virginian Northern Community College to pursue a career in welding . He intends to do this alongside the continuation of his produce business and raising poultry and calves . Clark also has big goals for farming .
“ I would like to extend my reach to more communities by taking my produce to more farmers markets ,” he says . “ I would also like to see my produce in local restaurants .”
The entrepreneur ’ s work is a good reminder to buy local foods and support West Virginia communities .
“ It brings me a lot of pride to receive this award ,” says Clark . “ Agriculture and my family go hand in hand . I ’ m the fourth generation to farm this land and know that wherever my journey takes me , agriculture will have a large role in the person I am and will become .” •
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WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE