SJC Farmers Recognized at Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association Annual Convention

• 28 September 2026
• Category: Agriculture SJC News
• Tags: 2026

Carleton Johns elected to FFVA Board of Directors, Gage Hjort recognized as leadership program graduate

Two members of the St. Johns County agriculture community were recognized for their leadership and professional development at the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association’s 82nd annual convention in Naples, Florida.

Carleton Johns, Vice President of Tater Farms, was elected to serve as an at-large director on the FFVA Board of Directors. FFVA members approved Johns’ nomination during the association’s annual board and membership meetings.

Johns also serves on the St. Johns County Agriculture Advisory Committee, which provides a connection between the County and local agricultural community. The committee helps identify opportunities to support and strengthen agriculture in St. Johns County.

Gage Hjort, Turf Operations Manager for Tater Farms, was recognized as a graduate of the FFVA’s Emerging Leaders Development Program, Class 15. The program provides participants with opportunities to develop leadership skills and gain a deeper understanding of Florida’s specialty crop industry.

The recognition of Johns and Hjort at the annual convention highlights the leadership and continued professional development of members of the St. Johns County agricultural community.

“This is a wonderful achievement for our farmers and our community,” said Prissy Fletcher, Agricultural Liaison for St. Johns County. “FFVA recognizes the value of Tater Farms’ contributions to the agricultural industry from the perspective of diversification and experimentation. This farming family and their team understands how to evolve with the times, all while creating a supportive work environment for their employees. I am honored that we have St. Johns County representation on their board, along with graduates from their leadership academy!”

Tater Farms is a multigenerational, family-owned farm with deep roots in Hastings, located in St. Johns County. Founded in 1975 by Frank and Polly Johns, the farm began by growing staple crops such as potatoes and cabbage. In 2005, Tater Farms planted its first turfgrass crop, marking a significant shift in the farm’s operations. What began as a single field has grown into more than 4,000 acres of improved turfgrass varieties, with sod now at the core of the operation. The farm has also expanded into citrus production, including groves of Noble Juicy Crunch™ Tangerines. Today, Tater Farms continues its agricultural operations in St. Johns County under the leadership of Eric Hjort, president, and Carleton Johns, vice president and the son of Frank and Polly Johns.

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