The 2000 Winner: Helen Houck

Helen Houck was "Woman of the Year in Agriculture" in 2000. She was the 17th recipient of the award, which recognizes women who have made outstanding contributions to Florida agriculture. For more than 40 years, Houck, of Perry, has displayed the true spirit of a volunteer. A lifelong advocate of agriculture, she has worked energetically to educate young people about the importance of agriculture in their daily lives. She is an inspiration to all those with whom she has worked over the years.

A native of Florida, Houck grew up on her family’s cattle ranch in Taylor County. She and her husband, Ernest, own and operate a 1,200-acre farm and ranch, with 100 acres of hay, 300 acres of pasture and approximately 500 cows.

Houck has been active in numerous activities representing agriculture on the county, district, state and national levels. Through the years, she and her husband have hosted many school groups on their farm for tours. In addition, she has visited numerous classrooms over the years to discuss topics relating to agriculture and works with 4-H clubs. Houck is a charter member of the Taylor County Farm Bureau, which was organized in 1957. She has been a member of the board of directors since 1970, served two terms as the organization’s president, and has been women’s chairman since 1974.

She has served on the Florida Farm Bureau’s board of directors, served as district women’s chairman for 10 counties since 1970, and served on the State Women’s Committee since 1975.

Houck has also served on the board of directors of the Taylor County Adult Meals Program for more than 10 years.