Spanish Conquistadors brought cattle to Florida 500 years ago, which likely means the state has held cattle longer than any other. Florida ranchers today are diverse and operate with a proud tradition. Some likeminded ranchers have joined forces to create a new tradition.

The Florida Cattle Ranchers LLC brings 13 ranches under a new marketing brand with the goal to produce Florida-born, -raised, -finished and –harvested beef. In April, the ranchers and their families had a get-together to talk about the new initiative and to celebrate and showcase their special place in Florida’s history. And they had a cattle drive.