Who we are

Captain Donnie Cochran, a distinguished retired Navy pilot, found himself at a crossroads after many years of service. With the roar of jet engines and working for two of America’s most recognizable brands (UPS and The Coca-Cola Company) behind him. Donnie returned to his roots in the heart of Southwest Georgia, ready to embark on a new mission—creating a sustainable pecan orchard on the family farm just outside Camilla, GA.

The decision wasn’t just about cultivating a new life; it was a return to simpler times, a chance to connect with the land that had nurtured his family for generations. Donnie remembered the stories his grandfather told him as a child about the old farm, where pecans flourished under the warm southern sun. Inspired by those memories, he envisioned a vibrant orchard that would not only preserve family traditions but also contribute to the local community.

As he walked the fields, he felt an overwhelming sense of pride and peace. Each step reminded him of the countless flights he had taken in the Navy, soaring high above the clouds, and now he was back on solid ground, ready to dig his hands into the earth. Donnie spent countless hours researching the best practices for pecan production, knowing that this venture required the same dedication and precision that he applied in the cockpit.

With the help of local farmers and agricultural experts, he carefully selected the best pecan varieties suited for the rich, sandy soil of his family farm. Using GPS system, he mapped out rows and rows of young pecan trees, envisioning them growing strong and tall, there boughs laden with nuts, welcoming each harvest season. It was a labor of love—one that connected him to his family’s legacy, the land, and the community he cherished.

The farm soon became a hub of activity. With the help of his brother Louis Cochran together, they planted seedlings, shared meals under the shade of older trees, and forged lasting memories. The orchard soon took shape, transforming the once bare fields into a lush landscape that buzzed with life.

As the seasons changed, so did the orchard. Pollen and fruit flowers appeared in spring, a promise of the bounty to come, and by the fall, they are greeted with a rich harvest. Donnie's vision was paying off!

With every handful of pecans harvested, Captain Donnie Cochran wasn’t just a pilot returning home; he was a steward of the land, cultivating both trees and connections. His journey from the skies to the soil exemplified a passion for growth, resiliency, and the beauty of returning to one’s roots—a legacy that would continue for generations to come.