KATHLEEN, Fla. (National Cattlemen’s Beef Association) — It’s National Beef Month, and in Florida, one cattle producer is proving that determination can overcome nearly any obstacle.
M&D Overstreet Ranch, owned by Mark and Debbie Overstreet, is a cattle operation recently recognized as a 2025–2026 Region II Environmental Stewardship Award Program winner. The ranch focuses on conservation efforts, including rotational grazing and water management practices designed to restore native grasslands and protect wildlife.
Mark Overstreet has continued managing cattle and caring for the land despite being paralyzed from the waist down after a gun safety accident. Today, he uses modified equipment to help operate the ranch.
“I learned at a very young age, especially when I got shot in the back and got put in a wheelchair, that I learned that land didn’t quit on me and I’m not going to quit on it,” Overstreet explains.
In 1982, Mark sold part of his land and used the money to fund spinal cord injury research at the University of Florida. Debbie Overstreet says his determination continues to inspire those around him.
“Mark really has no limits if he sets his mind to do something, he’s going to do it,” Debbie says. “There isn’t going to be any stopping him.”
