P.J. Haynie is a fifth-generation conventional farmer that grows corn, soybeans, and barley. Haynie Farms, LLC, on land they own and lease, is spread across several counties, but is mostly in Northumberland and Westmoreland counties. Several thousand acres in all, this is one of Virginia’s best known areas for grain production. Haynie wears several hats including truck driver and farmer activist. He serves as Chairman of the National Black Growers Council, is involved in USDA's Plant Variety Protection Act board, and has served on the Agricultural Advisory Council for Virginia's first congressional district. The National Black Growers Council strives to increase the efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of black farmers by targeting things like technology integration, streamlining processes, and strategic farm development. It was organized to represent and cater to the unique needs of full-time Black farmers. Haynie has been recognized by the white house as one of it Champions of Change and continues to make strides in black farmer activism. "There has pretty much been a genocide of black farmers," P.J. says. Farming is tough enough. Discrimination often makes it impossible. That took a toll on the generations. "If a son saw his dad struggling, why would he stay on the farm?" P.J. asks. Article: https://spotlights.dtnpf.com/abyfr/PJH%202014.cfm