Mr. Dennis M. Pete and his wife, Dr. Evelyn Long Pete, manage more than 450 acres of farm land in Jackson County, of which some 350 acres are planted in longleaf, slash and loblolly pine trees. These trees range in age from 25 years to a 40 acre tract to be planted this year. This land is also managed as a sanctuary for several varieties of wildlife.
Mr. Pete personally oversees all aspects of the tree farming operation which include planting trees, mowing between trees, removing dead trees, providing fire breaks at certain intervals, and harvesting the trees.
The Tree Farmer of the Year is selected each year by the Florida Division of Forestry's County Forester, Barry Stafford.