Jack Westerfield; Owner and Operator of J&J Westerfield Farms

The Mississippi Delta boasts rich alluvial soil and flat land, providing optimal row crop farming conditions. There are 18 Delta counties nestled in north Mississippi, and agriculture and farming play a pivotal role in each one. For Delta native Jack Westerfield, farming is not just a way to make a living; it’s a way of life. 
Westerfield was only twenty-four years old when he purchased 80 acres to begin his farming operation in Merigold, Mississippi. He reached out to Matt Mullins at First South Farm Credit to get started. With the help of Matt and First South, J&J Westerfield Farms was built, and Westerfield became a first-generation rice, corn, and soybean farmer.

“Jack has always been a hard worker, but he has grown tremendously on the business and management side of farming,” said Mullins. “He listens to advice from others and makes well informed decisions. I think this is one of the main things that have set him apart from other young farmers that started close to the same time as him.”

After establishing his operation, Westerfield purchased an additional 80 acres of land to continue growing. Mullins understands that farming is about more than a paycheck to Westerfield and worked to support him throughout the challenges of being a first-generation farm owner and operator. Westerfield joked that he spoke to Mullins during this process more than some of his friends. 

“As a young farmer, ag lending has been a huge part,” said Westerfield. “First South has made it easy It’s like calling your friend to talk to about your plans. They have really made this process as streamlined and as easy as possible for me.”

Mullins’ dedication to creating and growing relationships with his lenders allows him to provide a high-quality level of service and support. The advantage of his commitment shows through the success of farmers like Westerfield. 

“Building a good relationship with lenders is important. There is no other way to build trust,” said Mullins. “Trust between a lender and customer is paramount. It saves time and helps facilitate making well-informed decisions for everyone involved.”

As J&J Westerfield Farms continues to grow, Westerfield knows that he can rely on First South for reliable support.

“With First South and with being able to farm and operate, the best part of all of this is complete freedom,” said Westerfield. “It’s not just a job; it’s more of a way of life. First South has made this dream a reality.”