Russell Hedrick is a first-generation farmer who has a dedication to growing some of the finest grain and livestock in his region of the southeast. His exceptional use of new technologies and cover crops led him to being awarded the 2014 North Carolina Innovative Young Farmer of the Year by North Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.

Russell has been a featured producer in the Farm Press magazine for maximizing his cover crop benefits by mixing species and national No-till Farmer for integration of cattle onto covers and the Haney test for reducing fertilizer inputs on cash crops. He says his operation has grown through hard work to almost 500 acres.

In 2014 Russell integrated cattle into the operation and is growing warm and cool season cover crops for them to graze to utilize every acre and increase the profits for his farm. His operation focuses on maximizing profits and direct consumer marketing for all their products.

Russell Hedrick is also the recipient of the 2024 Carolinas Leopold Conservation Award. The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.