Q & A With Doug Heydt

The Answers You Need

Q&A with Doug Heydt: FAQ

How long have you been involved with agriculture? What is your favorite part of being in the Ag Industry?

I grew up in farming - in the dairy industry actually, so my whole life has been in this industry. My favorite part would be getting the chance to watch stuff grow; whether it be a day old chick to a newborn calf to planting a seed in the ground and watching it yield. There's no greater feeling than to see such a unique perspective on food and crops.

What made you get into the Ag Industry?

Growing up and working with my dad on our dairy farm- this has always been my way of life. I honestly never even considered a different occupation! I have always loved the different opportunities and challenges I'm faced with everyday.

What involvement have you had in other Ag Industry organizations?

I've served on numerous boards throughout the years. Most recently, I am on the Newberry County Cattlemen's Board, the Newberry County Career Center Advisory Board for Agriculture and FFA, Farmers Mutual Insurance Board, Newberry Soil and Water Conservation District Board, and the Keep Newberry County Beautiful Board. I'm also a member of Silverstreet Lutheran Church. Community involvement is important to me.

Tell us a little about Hy-Hope Farm.

Well, Hy-Hope is the name my father has for our dairy farm. When he retired, it only seemed fitting to carry on his legacy by continuing to use the name. Hy-Hope Farm is a broiler, cow-calf, turkey brooding, row crop, and timber operation. We always try to stay up to date on the best way to grow and sustain.

Why do you want to be on the AgSouth Board of Directors and what does this mean for you in terms of your farm and your family.

As my slogan says, I want to be on the Ag South Board to keep AgSouth STRONG for our future and OUR children's future. Throughout the years, AgSouth gave me the opportunity to have a wonderful life that I have been able to share with my family. To give this chance to other families is what AgSouth is all about, and I share that common goal.

If elected, what is the greatest advantage you feel you can contribute to the current Board of Directors? ... to the current members?

Being a farmer and businessman has allowed me to experience the highs and the lows of operating a business. Bringing this knowledge to the Board would be a different perspective than other board members, and I feel it would help them in making the best decisions. To the current members, I would bring extensive experience including making tough decisions that are not always what the "popular opinion" may be. I would be able to have the ability to listen to both sides and make an informed decision.

What is your favorite part of AgSouth Farm Credit and what do you look for in a Board of Directors Candidate?

I love working with the personnel! They are wonderfully supportive people, and they are always great to deal with in regards to any project I may undertake! In a candidate, I look for diversity in business and the ability to communicate with the members. The members are what make AgSouth, so I feel it is important to create an open form of communication in order to grow and succeed.

If you could personally address each AgSouth member on a one-on-one basis, as a candidate, what would be the two most important things you'd like to tell them?

First, I would like to tell each and every person that I will listen and I will evaluate any idea or suggestion that can improve and provide a better product to you as a member. Second, I would like to let the members know that I am always available. I am available by email, phone, or text 24/7 as I am your elected board member. Lastly (even though you only asked for two), I would like to tell them thank you for trusting me to this position and I will not let them down!