Memvis J. Hale II: African Americans in Agriculture Spotlight Series

With just two features remaining in this series, I'm dealing with mixed emotions: excitement and gloom. Whiled I'm eager to introduce and share my friends and colleagues with you, I'm sad that's it's almost over. Without further ado:

Meet Memvis J. Hale II, a horticulturist in Humble, TX.

Memvis, what does agriculture mean to you? How does it affect your everyday life?
Agriculture is everything to me now because it’s all I think about. I’m affected by always trying to tell someone about gardening and getting their kids in FFA and 4-H Clubs.

How did you get your start in Agriculture? What was/is your agricultural inspiration or influence?
I got into Agriculture by joining a 4-H club when I was in 6th grade at M. C. Williams Middle School. Ms. Bell (my science teacher) asked if I was interested.

What is your favorite part about what you do?
I love teaching kids and adults what I have learned throughout my college training, work, and personal experiences with Agriculture. Seeing the fruit of your labor is always a good feeling, and seeing others’ testimonials and happiness of what they have done because of something I showed or told them is a great feeling as well.

What is it like being an African American in Agriculture in today's society? 
It’s a great feeling, but it’s also challenging because it’s harder to establish yourself when there are so many roadblocks that are already set in place that doesn’t help African Americans.

Statistics show that African Americans in Agriculture has declined drastically over the years. What are some ways we can reverse this trend? 
We can reverse this trend by introducing Agriculture, starting more inner-city 4-H Clubs, having in-school field trips to classes to show them the basics, and exploring more about it; starting community gardens. Getting kids, teens, and adults interested in FFA will also be helpful. Farmers markets and going to pick-your-own farms is an incredible way of getting this trend reversed.

What words of encouragement or advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in Agriculture?

Agriculture is more than cows, pigs, and horses. Learn all you can about the different fields that make up Agriculture. Find the ones that interest you and study with fulfilment and love what you are doing.

Any additional words you’d like to share? 
Everyone should have a garden at home. If not, you're missing out on one of the best things God has given us.

Memvis J. Hale II
Horticulturist
Humble, TX

Contact Info:

Email: memvis.hale@yahoo.com