Faces Behind Farm Policy: Brandon Batten

Celebrating its 40^th year of business in February, Brandon Batten’s multi-generational family farm in eastern North Carolina is a diversified row crop operation producing corn, soybeans, wheat, rye, flue-cured tobacco, and grass hay, along with a beef cow-calf herd.

The family has adapted to changing markets in the last four decades, experimenting with sweet potatoes, hemp, cucumbers and cotton. Each decision is based on market demand, soil health and crop rotation.

Eastern North Carolina’s unique climate and soil offer farmers like Brandon the opportunity to diversify their operations with specialty crops and livestock.

One crop that has long shaped the Tar Heel State’s landscape is tobacco.

“Tobacco has always been a favorite crop for me,” Brandon said. “It grows so fast, and when I came home from college, that’s what we were focused on.

“But really, I just love watching anything grow. Springtime is my favorite season because the farm comes alive again.”

Farming has always been Brandon’s goal, but returning to his family’s operation wasn’t guaranteed. Encouraged by his grandfather to pursue higher education, he earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in agricultural engineering from North Carolina State University. In 2010, with support from his family and amid industry changes, Brandon returned to the farm full-time.

Since then, the operation has tripled in size and further diversified its crops.

“I truly believe the Lord put me on this earth to work in agriculture, and right now that’s farming,” said Brandon.

There are easier ways to make a living, Brandon admits, but none more rewarding than farming. It’s allowed him to raise his three children with the same values passed down by his father and grandfather.