Next Generation Beef Producers
Nearly 300 million acres of U.S. farmland are expected to change hands in the next 20 years. Beyond the transfer of land, and the often-complex succession planning process, investing in the next generation involves the transfer of skills and knowledge. Now’s the time to cultivate multigenerational success through asset, resource and financial stewardship.
In southwest Kansas, the Brown sisters are turning a downsized family feedyard into a nimble, data‑driven custom yard that leans on technology, creative cattle sourcing and strong customer relationships to stay full in a tight cattle cycle.
With 40% of American farmland expected to change hands by 2040, the focus shifts from transferring assets to empowering the next generation of ranch leaders through transparency and shared responsibility.
The beef industry offers many leadership development experiences across the country shaped to help build skills and relationships for future careers and industry involvement.
Genomic tools can predict at birth whether a heifer is genetically wired to stay in the herd — a game-changer as producers look to rebuild the national cow herd.
The King Ranch Institute is designed for people who can already handle a horse and a herd — but want a seat at the financial table and the tools to keep ranches profitable for the next generation.
Nebraska rancher Jaclyn Wilson traveled the globe as a 2024 Nuffield Scholar, discovering that while water and perception are universal challenges, international genetics and New Zealand management tools offer a competitive edge for her Sandhills operation.
Starting a cattle operation is a high-stakes financial puzzle. During the 2026 BIF Young Producers Symposium, three veteran cattlemen shared why the key to long-term success isn’t buying the most expensive heifers, but selecting for environmental fit and non-negotiable fertility.
Seven interactive stations — from drone-based inventory to advanced nutrition —introduces students to the high-tech complexity and career opportunities behind every finished steer.
While we often focus on winning, the true value of livestock judging lies in the character traits and “intangible advantages” that stay with a person long after the final card is turned in.
Consolidation risk is not limited to smaller operations. Succession gaps, management transitions and strategic exits are driving consolidation regardless of size.
When Lydia Carpenter and her husband built a relationship with a senior producer, it led to the opportunity for a non-family business transition.
FFA helps young people open doors, build lifelong networks and prepare them for future success.
A look at how Colby Community College’s beef instructor is building a better beef herd while developing future industry leaders.
Outstanding producers from California, Kansas, Ohio, Oregon and Wisconsin will be recognized for excellence, leadership and innovation.
How Bloody Buckets Cattle Co. is building on legacy and adopting new tools to find new opportunities.
Maple Valley Cattle Company proves that pivoting with purpose can restore both land and livelihood.
Eleven teams representing seven countries showcased their skills and knowledge of the livestock industry and the Hereford breed.
I’m on day 1,247 of the state fair or so it feels today. I’m not sure what day of the week it is or what’s happening in the next hour.
When you grow up on a farm, certain phrases become ingrained in your vocabulary, like “feed the calves” or “fix the fence” or “mow the grass,” but one phrase, in particular, is notably absent.
With a no-nonsense approach to advocacy Cassidy Johnston bridges the gap between farm and table.
In one second, years of audience-building and customer relationships were lost for Chris and Kaitlyn Hofschulte, showpig breeders in Miami, Okla.
Increasing carcass size, global methane research and beef on dairy were some of the key topics discussed during the 2025 BIF Symposium.
It’s not too early to start planning. In fact, Tiffany Lashmet advises Beef Improvement Federation Young Producer Conference attendees it’s time to think about an estate plan once you’re 18.
Alan Hojer shares tools to help ranch families turn tension into trust and pass the reins with purpose.
It doesn’t matter how old we are. Mentors are valuable at all stages of life. All too often we fail to make the first move to ask because we let our doubts have more power than they deserve in our lives.
If both parties can come together – a farm seeker and a person that’s trying to get out of business – they can create a plan for the next generation.
An industry leading opportunity giving Hereford youth real-world experience feeding cattle and understanding carcass data.