Alto "Bud" Adams, Jr. was born and raised in St. Lucie County. His father Alto Adams, Sr. purchased the Adams Ranch located in Fort Pierce in 1937. When Bud Adams graduated from the University of Florida in 1948, he began managing the ranch. He has become a prominent figure in Florida's cattle and citrus industries. One of his most notable accomplishments was developing the internationally renowned Braford breed of cattle, which was recognized as a new breed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in 1969.

Committed to maintaining harmony between cattle production and the environment, he served as President of the Florida Cattlemen's Association and was honored by the National Cattlemen's Association for his stewardship of natural resources. His conservation efforts include pioneering natural plant and pest control on his ranchlands.

Mr. Adams began carrying a camera with him when he was just ten years old. In concert with his love of animals and the land, he has captured the beauty of life on the ranch as a photographer. Over 65 years of his photography can be seen in his three previous books, several magazines and on postcards.

Mr. Adams has always been glad to lend his knowledge and expertise to civic and professional organizations. He served as a member of the Indian River Community College Foundation Board for thirteen years and as chairman for four years. In 2003, the College named him the Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneur of the Year. In addition, he has served on a number of other boards such as Harbor Federal Savings Bank, SunBank, Backus Art Gallery, Heathcote Botanical Gardens and United Way.