Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson and the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame Foundation have announced the 2025 inductees to the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame: Cary and Marcia Lightsey, Madeline Mellinger, and Jim Strickland. These individuals are recognized for their significant contributions to the state’s agricultural industry and dedication to mentoring future generations. The induction ceremony will take place on February 11, 2025, at the Florida State Fair’s Agricultural Hall of Fame Banquet.
“Today, I am proud to announce new inductees into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame for their outstanding contributions to Florida’s agriculture community,” said Commissioner Simpson. “Cary and Marcia Lightsey, Madeline Mellinger, and Jim Strickland have each made remarkable contributions that extend well beyond their own operations, driving progress in conservation, sustainability, and leadership. Their impact will be felt across our state for years to come.”
Cary and Marcia Lightsey
Cary Lightsey, a sixth-generation cattle rancher, and his wife, Marcia, have dedicated their lives to conserving Florida’s natural landscapes. They successfully expanded their family ranch, even during tough economic times, and became leaders in conservation by committing 80% of their land to conservation easements. This has preserved thousands of environmentally sensitive acres, including Brama Island, home to several endangered species.
The Lightseys have worked to share their conservation story through documentaries and public tours. They are also actively involved in mentoring young Floridians, with Cary teaching at Warner University and Marcia volunteering with Florida Agriculture in the Classroom since 1999. Their numerous recognitions include Florida’s Agriculture Commissioner’s Ag-Environmental Leadership Award and Audubon of Florida Sustainable Rancher of the Year.
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Madeline Mellinger
Madeline Mellinger, founder and CEO of Glades Crop Care Inc., is a pioneer in integrated pest management and sustainable agricultural practices. Since 1972, she has revolutionized how Florida farmers manage pest control, helping them transition from calendar-based to need-based pesticide applications, reducing environmental impacts while maintaining high-quality harvests.
Mellinger has served as an advisor to the U.S. Congress, the National Academy of Sciences, and the Environmental Protection Agency, among others. She has also been a tireless advocate for agricultural education, particularly for women and young professionals in the industry. Her accolades include being named Florida’s Woman of the Year in Agriculture and induction into the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Hall of Fame.
Jim Strickland
Jim Strickland has over six decades of ranching experience and has played a key role in agricultural conservation efforts in Florida. As the managing partner of Strickland Ranch, Lost Girl Prairie Ranch, Big Red Cattle Company, and Blackbeard’s Ranch, Strickland has been a vocal advocate for ranchland conservation and sustainable practices.
Strickland is co-chair of the Florida Climate Smart Agriculture Work Group and vice chair of the Florida Conservation Group, promoting agricultural land conservation and research. His numerous awards include Audubon Florida’s Sustainable Rancher of the Year and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Environmental Stewardship Award.
Looking Ahead
These inductees continue to inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders in Florida, ensuring that their legacies of conservation, sustainability, and leadership will endure. Each of their contributions has significantly advanced Florida’s agricultural community, making lasting impacts on the state’s economy, environment, and future.
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