Michael Snipes, an Army veteran with 27 years of service and a father of three, owns Ridgeville Okra Co., a family farm in Ridgeville, SC, passed down through generations. Initially focused on sharing fresh produce with the community, the farm has grown into a small business cultivating okra, tomatoes, greens, corn, squash, and peppers.
Michael aims to expand produce varieties and value-added products for farmers’ markets, farm stands, and events while continuing to support the community and partnering farmers. With RAFI’s support, he plans to establish a small cold storage facility, enabling local farmers to preserve harvests, reduce spoilage, and increase income. This project reflects his commitment to collaboration and community growth.