Live Oak, Florida

The community:
Located 85 miles east of Tallahasse, Live Oak is named after the large shade trees that grow in the area. It is the county seat of Suwannee County and home to nearly 6,700 citizens. The landmass of the county sits on a limestone bed riddled with underground freshwater streams that surface in dozens of beautiful springs. Known as the "diving capital of the world," the area's natural springs attract scuba enthusiasts from all over the world. Each April, the community hosts the Suwannee River Jam, held at the nearby Spirit of the Suwannee Music Camp and featuring many famous country artists.

Operations:
With rich, center-pivot, irrigated sand and a north Florida location, Live Oak fills the mid-May through June shipping window for Black Gold. Near the intersection of I-10 and I-75, it is strategically located to accommodate easy freight accessibility. A permanent harvest load out facility was added in 2007. While tobacco was a big crop in the past, today's area crops include potatoes, peanuts, corn, watermelon and string beans.

Employees:
Black Gold at Live Oak has close to 10 full-time and 30 seasonal employees.