Yon Family Farms
Lydia Yon is a first-generation family farmer. She met her husband, Kevin, at Clemson University where they both earned degrees in animal science. The couple owns Yon Family Farms in Ridge Spring, S.C. The farm is home to about 1,000 Angus cows.
Realizing the importance of sustainability, the Yons work daily to ensure their soil and water resources remain healthy. They have placed 100 acres in the grassland preserve program and believe in whole-farm conservation, which helped earn the National Environmental Stewardship Award in 2009. Beyond the farm gate, the family is heavily involved in the agriculture and cattle industry. Lydia and her family work with future farmers via tours, and by hosting international students and interns.
Lydia and Kevin have raised three children on the farm; two returned after college to work in the family operation, and a third is finishing his college career.