It’s High Cotton season and we couldn’t be prouder of the 2024 class. Each year, one producer is nominated and selected from each of the four Cotton Belt regions. The 30^th class is as follows: Southeast — Andy Wendland, Autaugaville, Ala.; Midsouth — Edward Greer, Rayville, La.; Southwest — Richard Gaona, Roby, Texas; and West — Jerry Rovey, Buckeye, Ariz.  

The half-to-day-long interview, countless photos and being a part of cotton harvest on the winner’s farm is a highlight for us editors. By the time we complete the interview, we’ve experienced harvest and spent time with the producer’s families and employees.  

I first had the privilege of interviewing Richard and his wife Judy in 2020. When I drove to the Rolling Plains of Roby, Texas, my goal was to get a crop update. It was another tough year, as this region battles frequent droughts, gusting winds and often extreme temperatures. 

As we first visited around their kitchen bar, eating Judy’s delicious roast, I was quickly drawn to Richard’s family farming history. His dad, Jeronimo, came to the U.S. as a 13-year-old migrant worker. Each year, he would begin his season in the Rio Grande Valley and work his way to Washington State. One of his jobs landed him in Roby, where a friendship and an opportunity helped him transition from a temporary laborer to U.S. citizen and Texas landowner.  

Related:Richard Gaona named Southwest High Cotton winner

Jeronimo eventually owned 1,400 acres and became a partner in Terry’s Gin. The American dream. I would have loved to have visited with Jeronimo. I can’t imagine the courage, strength and tenacity of this man.  

As you visit with Richard, you catch a glimpse. You can see it in his eyes and hear it in his voice. It’s not an easy task to farm the dryland fields of the Rolling Plains. And as I returned to the Gaona’s farm last fall, while Richard was proud to be recognized for the award, much like his dad was for his production practices years ago, he was disappointed in the production year… again.  

Extreme weather conditions have wreaked havoc on his cotton fields the last two years. In 2022, he didn’t harvest any cotton. 2023 wasn’t much better. He talked about the optimism that preceded the season that was then silenced by tornadic winds, extreme temperatures and finally an early freeze. Grit, tenacity, character, a hard work ethic. Actually, I believe I’ve gotten a clear glimpse of his dad through him.  

And while Richard expressed his disappointment, he also reassured his enduring love for farming but especially cotton. Maybe success isn’t always measured in yields but the character to preserve, pivot and try again. Maybe that’s why he’s been farming for almost 50 years. He still farms his daddy’s land. I guess you could say the Gaonas have been walking in high cotton for years. Congratulations, Richard and Judy! It’s a privilege to get to recognize your production, character and heritage.  

Related:Richard Gaona: 'skip row guy,' High Cotton honoree