A Lifetime in Farming: Wade Byrd Still ‘Digs’ Peanuts

Written by: Lily McLamb, NC Peanut Growers Commodity Relations Intern

For nearly six decades, Wade Byrd has been a dedicated peanut farmer, navigating the changing landscape of agriculture while keeping his family’s farming legacy alive and thriving. From his early years working alongside his father, who was among the first to introduce peanuts as a cash crop into Bladen County, Byrd has witnessed firsthand the transformation of North Carolina’s peanut industry.

Wade Byrd’s path to peanut farming began with a strong agricultural background. After majoring in Animal Science at NC State University, Byrd returned to the family farm. His father, an agronomy major, had transitioned from a tobacco-focused operation to peanuts after marrying Byrd’s mother, whose Halifax County roots traced back to one of North Carolina’s most prominent peanut-growing regions. Since 1966, Byrd has been growing peanuts, continuing the tradition at Byrdfield Farms.

Farming, especially in the peanut industry, has evolved dramatically over the years, and Byrd has embraced those changes. “The technology we have today is unbelievable. Twenty years ago, I never imagined we’d be doing what we are now,” said Byrd. Some of the most significant shifts have included transitioning away from moldboard plowing, advancements in herbicide availability, and improvements in disease resistance.

“We used to have to hand-pull weeds because only one or two herbicides were available. Now, we have a much wider range of options that make weed control more efficient.” Additionally, the introduction of drying trailers and better fungicides has significantly reduced workloads and improved peanut quality.

Overcoming challenges has been a defining aspect of Byrd’s career. He has witnessed and contributed to research efforts combatting CBR (Cylindrocladium Black Rot), which was a significant hurdle for many peanut farmers. “Research on CBR resistance was done on my farm, and our progress in genetics and fumigation has been crucial for growers.”

Byrd has observed that the peanut market has remained relatively stable over the years, with peanut butter continuing to dominate as the leading product. However, he acknowledges the growing demand for snack peanuts and the importance of maintaining high-quality bright hulls.

Organic and sustainable peanut production continue to be prominent topics of discussion through his work on commodity boards. Byrd recognizes the increasing focus on reducing herbicide use and adopting conservation practices. “We’ve implemented strip tillage for all our crops except peanuts and have invested in tile drainage and irrigation systems to improve efficiency on our farm.”

One of the major local industry developments Byrd has been involved in is the introduction of a Birdsong Peanut buying point in Bladenboro. Working with fellow board member Dan Ward to establish a local buying point in Bladen County has provided growers in the region with more efficient processing and marketing opportunities.

“Having a local sheller like Birdsong has been a great convenience. It makes it easier to market our peanuts and maintain a good working relationship,” Byrd noted.

Beyond the farm, Byrd has found immense value in being part of the North Carolina Peanut Growers Association. “The friendships and connections I’ve made on the Peanut Board have been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. It’s a very unique thing to see growers come together, work through challenges, and advocate for the industry.”

His advice to new peanut growers? “Peanuts are very particular. They require more time and attention than any other row crop. Prevention is the key; if you wait too long to act, it might be too late.”

Looking ahead, Byrd is keenly watching the Farm Bill discussion and is concerned about overproduction. “When other commodities are low-priced, more people turn to peanuts, which can flood the market. It’s something we need to manage carefully.”

Byrd remains proud of his family’s legacy and optimistic about the next generation. “My son, Robert Byrd, is very smart and contributes heavily to the farm’s success. I hope my grandsons will follow a similar path and seek farming as a career to continue the family tradition.”

Wade Byrd’s experience in the North Carolina peanut industry exemplifies the balance between honoring tradition and embracing innovation. As one of the first farms in southeast North Carolina to implement on-farm dryers and bed peanut land, his willingness to adapt and lead has set an example for future growers.

“My dad wasn’t afraid to be the first to try something new, and neither was I. It has worked out well for us.”

With nearly 1,200 acres under cultivation, Byrd remains hands-on in managing the farm. “Being a working manager and not far removed from the farm has been our best decision. High yields also contribute to the success. When we couldn’t find more land, we had to make more on what we had.”

As peanut growers across North Carolina look to the future, Byrd’s story is a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and camaraderie that define the peanut industry.