Cattle ranching is an often overlooked industry in Florida, but the state ranks 12th-largest in the nation for cattle production. Ranchers here are being hit hard by fuel, feed and fertilizer prices. CHARLES TRAINOR JR / MIAMI HERALD STAFF
The Williamson Cattle Co., based in Okeechobee, is run by three generations of one family. The family's Florida roots stretch back seven generations. Left to right, pictured, are John, Frank "Sonny" and Wes Williamson. CHARLES TRAINOR JR / MIAMI HERALD STAFF
The ranch has more than 9,000 acres of land, which also has citrus groves. The family says they're committed to the lifestyle, even as they make 1 percent on their cattle investment, they estimate. Here, Wes Williamson closes one of the gates on the ranch during his early morning routine. CHARLES TRAINOR JR / MIAMI HERALD STAFF
Cattle ranchers like the Wililamsons are feeling the economy impact their business -- this spring, instead of making about $50 a head on cattle, the family lost as much as $135 per head. Here, ranch hand Deroy Arnold talks on a Nextel as he helps herd heifers to the corral. CHARLES TRAINOR JR / MIAMI HERALD STAFF
The business has about 17 full-time employees, who receive health and retirement benefits. Wes Williamson, pictured here, says the employees have been with them so long that despite difficult business conditions they won't cut back on worker benefits. CHARLES TRAINOR JR / MIAMI HERALD STAFF
The Willliamson family breeds and and raises calves until they reach about 500 pounds, then ships them out west for further grazing or where the animals are sent directly to feedlots. Here, ranch hand Deroy Arnold prepares to inject a heifer in the chute. CHARLES TRAINOR JR / MIAMI HERALD STAFF
The stark economics of cattle ranching are such that a cow can survive eight to 10 years if she produces a calf each year -- or else she will be sent to slaughter. Here, a veterinarian checks a heifer in the chute to check if she is pregnant. CHARLES TRAINOR JR / MIAMI HERALD STAFF
The Williamson Cattle Co. in Okeechobee also includes citrus and catfish farm in Alabama. The family thinks even despite the current economic pressures, they'll make a small profit this year -- but only because they own their land. "It's a great place to grow up and raise a family,'' said Wes Williamson, pictured here. "It's a romantic
business to be in. The downside is it's not very profitable.'' CHARLES TRAINOR JR / MIAMI HERALD STAFF
