David Michael Rodgers, Marine veteran and businessman, is launching his own vineyard, Belle Terre. The vineyard is meant to brighten the community and provide local recreation, according to Rodgers. Since there are so few in north Louisiana, Rodgers wanted to build one closer to his community.
Rodgers has had the experience of a vineyard and winery and said many people have enjoyed the experience. He wanted those in and close to Ouachita Parish to be able to experience this as well.
“I want to bring the community together, allow them to have a central location and be a part of the wine-making community,” said Rodgers. “I want to influence an increase in tourism for the parish, as well as broaden the community.”
According to the United States Census Bureau, there are approximately 153,279 residents of Ouachita Parish as of 2019.
Rodger’s friends and soon-to-be vineyard manager are all a testament of his dedication to the community. A friend complained about having to drive hours to go to a nice vineyard, so Rodgers decided he wanted to put a stop to it. He would build his own, have it locally, and fully female operated, here in his home parish.
“I wanted to incorporate a diverse working community,” said Rodgers. “Having multiple opinions and perspectives on different aspects of the vineyard will allow it to stand out and function at its best.”
The intent of Rodger’s new business venture is to better the community of Ouachita Parish, starting in his own home. The vineyard will be in his field, growing hybrid grapes manufactured by viticulturist Fritz Westover and the University of California, Davis.
The vineyard will house a beautiful venue, overlooking Rodger’s property, and feature a wine tasting room come Spring of 2024.
This new vineyard will revitalize an already active community and provide them with a new source of community togetherness.
David Michael Rodgers is a retired Marine veteran with many opportunistic businesses. MDR Construction is his main business where he conducts most of his ventures. He always allows locals the opportunity for a job before anyone else. David is a compassionate boss, as seen in his different array of enterprises.
