An advocate for the industry and role model for future generations, Donald “Don” Quincey has an undeniable passion and dedication to the agricultural industry – leading by his actions in his business and through his service.
Born in Gainesville, Don is a fifth-generation Florida cattleman. Upon graduation from Chiefland High School, he felt called to serve in law enforcement. But after two years of service, his unquestionable love for the land and raising cattle brought him back to the family’s feed store and cow-calf operation. He was actively engaged in ownership and operations from 1977 to 2003, when the store was sold.
While supporting the family business, Don founded Quincey Cattle Company in 1992, a diversified cattle feeding operation in Chiefland. The operation has grown in size and scope to meet fellow cattle producers’ needs and goals, providing services to improve marketability, and options for Florida cattle. His commitment to innovation has led to improved sustainability for the industry, with approximately 80 percent of his commodity needs coming from within 20 miles of his ranch.
His record of service and leadership is well-documented and tremendous. Don is a lifelong supporter of the Future Farmers of America (now known as FFA) and a founding member of Florida Cattle Ranchers. He has held all elected officer positions with the Florida Cattlemen’s Association and has served on the board of directors for Drummond Community Bank, Florida Beef Council, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and Cattle Fax. He also has been recognized by the University of Florida’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) with an Award of Distinction and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association with a Leadership Award.
Don has been an advocate for mutually beneficial environmental and agricultural policy – seeking to bridge the gaps between production and regulation – as a member of the Suwannee River Water Management District board for many years. He served as chair for nine of his twelve years at the district. During his tenure, he initiated the district’s cost-share program and was instrumental in developing a water-use monitoring program to assist agricultural stakeholders with reporting actual water use instead of estimated data.
With lifelong roots in Florida agriculture, carving a niche in the Florida cattle industry was not for Don’s personal gain, but to set the foundation for future generations to provide a safe, wholesome, local Florida beef supply.
