Alan Lawson’s journey in agriculture began long before he could walk the fields of his family’s farm. As a third-generation farmer, Alan’s roots run deep in Crowley, Louisiana, a town synonymous with rice cultivation.
A Family Tradition of Innovation and Perseverance
Alan’s story is intertwined with the legacy of his grandfather, who grew up in Hammond. After losing his father at a young age, Alan’s grandfather found guidance and support from his uncle, Will Lawson, a prominent businessman in Crowley. With his uncle’s help, he earned a degree in electrical engineering from Purdue University. In the late 1930s, he moved to Crowley, purchased a farm, and embarked on a journey that would lay the foundation for the Lawson family’s agricultural enterprise.
An innovator at heart, Alan’s grandfather was one of the first in the area to invest in a combine harvester and to establish a farm drying and storage facility. This forward-thinking approach allowed the farm to grow from an initial capacity of 3,600 barrels to over 50,000 barrels today, reflecting the farm’s expansion and success through the generations.
Educational Pursuits and Return to the Farm
Alan’s path to becoming a farmer was shaped by his education and early experiences. A graduate of Crowley High School, he first attended Louisiana State University Eunice before transferring to LSU in Baton Rouge, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business. With a solid educational background, Alan returned home to join his father on the family farm, bringing with him new knowledge and a passion for continuing the family’s legacy.
Expanding Horizons: Rice, Crawfish, and Innovation
Today, A&L Lawson’s operation spans 1,100 acres of rice and 1,100 acres of crawfish, with additional acreage dedicated to soybeans and a small herd of cattle. The rice fields primarily produce long grain varieties, including CL111, CL153, CLXL729, CLXL745, Mermentau, and Provisia. Alan employs sustainable farming practices, such as no-till planting into a stale seedbed, to conserve natural resources and maintain soil health.
In addition to rice, Alan has expanded into the crawfish industry. He recently partnered with two other producers to establish Bocage Crawfish, a peeling and packaging business. This venture not only allows Alan to market 100% of the farm’s crawfish production but also supports other local farmers by purchasing their crawfish. Bocage Crawfish employs over 50 people and supplies both live crawfish to restaurants and peeled, frozen tail meat to various markets.
Leadership and Community Involvement
Alan’s commitment to agriculture extends beyond his farm. He serves as the president of the Acadia Rice Growers Association, vice president of the Louisiana Rice Growers Association, and is a member of the Rice Research Board. He is a graduate of the LSU Agricultural Leadership Program and serves on its board of directors, reflecting his dedication to agricultural education and leadership.
Alan’s achievements have been recognized with the Farm Credit Leadership Award, and he actively participates in the Young Farmers and Ranchers Advisory Committee. He also volunteers with the 4-H program, supporting the shooting sports program and mentoring the next generation of agricultural leaders.
A Family Man
Alan’s dedication to his family is evident in his life on the farm. Born and raised just two miles north of Crowley, he is the oldest child of Larry and Marilyn Rodgers Lawson. Alan has two sisters, Christine Lawson Gill and Elizabeth Lawson Monk. He is married to Carey David Lawson from New Roads, and they have two children, Colin and Lillian. Carey contributes to the community as the Executive Director of the LSU at Eunice Foundation.
A Legacy of Growth and Innovation
Alan Lawson exemplifies the blend of tradition and innovation that defines Louisiana’s rice farming community. His efforts ensure that the Lawson family legacy not only endures but also thrives, adapting to new challenges and opportunities. Alan’s story is one of dedication, leadership, and a profound commitment to the land and community that have shaped his life.
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