Growing up in Artesia, Mississippi, Tony Dantzler has always enjoyed farming and began his career at just 12 years old. Now, watching him work alongside his 24-year-old son and other students from Mississippi State University, his passion for farming is evident from the smile spread across his face. It will likely be close to 10 p.m. before the workday is over, but Tony loves what he does, working as both a train engineer and farmer for DPP Farms.
“I enjoyed growing up on this farm in Northeast Mississippi,” Tony said. “It has given me the opportunity to learn, work and share experiences with my family.”
Tony works with his partners, Charlie Pilkinton and Larmarcus Phillips, to plant and harvest 3,600 acres of land. This year marks his 40th or 41st year raising and caring for row crops. Technological advances have greatly impacted the farming industry, and things are much different than when Tony planted his first crop.
Farming is all about relationships, whether with your partners in the field, neighboring farmers or grain buyers, and I enjoy working with a company that prioritizes our relationship to build mutual trust.” – Tony Dantzler
“All of these tractors are being guided by GPS systems,” Tony explained. “At each turn they line up with the rows and engage the system.”
He’s had these systems in place for nearly 10 years, but they, along with many other industry advances, didn’t exist for the first half of his career. Although the farming industry has changed drastically with emerging technology in the digital world, Peco’s commitment to relationships has and always will be a priority. Peco’s goal is to build relationships with farmers and neighbors, while supporting the local communities, to create a wholesome food product and a sustainable supply chain for everyone.
“Having a local buyer means a lot to this farm,” Tony said. “And the fact that I can call Peco anytime and always get a quick response shows just how much they care, an essential aspect of any successful relationship.”
From an early age, Tony has maintained a passion for the land and looks forward to the day he can pass down what he’s built to his own son, who shares the same dream. “I grew up in farming and this is what I want to do for the rest of my life,” Tony said.