HUMAN INTEREST

Empowering Youth, Feeding Communities: The Competitive Food Drive Transforming County Fairs

Wed, 13 May 2026 21:38:08 GMT

What began as a simple challenge to county junior fair boards five years ago has grown into one of the most impactful youth-led initiatives.

Fight the Hunger, Stock the Trailer was launched by Farm Credit Mid-America in 2021 as a way to support local food pantries and give back to communities. Junior fair boards compete to collect as many food donations as possible, with top counties earning cash prizes to reinvest in local programs. The competition takes place during county fairs — a time when food pantry shelves often run low.

What started as a grassroots effort in Ohio spread to Indiana the following year and has now mobilized thousands of young people, strengthened dozens of food banks and provided relief to families facing food insecurity. In just five years, the program has collected more than 1.6 million lb. of food, proving the power of youth leadership and community collaboration.

How does Fight the Hunger, Stock the Trailer work?

Accept the Challenge: Connect with your county fair leaders and let Farm Credit Mid-America know you want to compete.
Register: Indiana and Ohio .
Develop a Plan: Use your creativity to inspire community members to make donations and find ways to raise money to purchase food for your trailer.
Download toolkits: Indiana Toolkit | Ohio Toolkit These toolkits are packed with banners, flyers, signage, social media graphics and many helpful tools.
Collect Items: During your fair, collect food items and place them in your trailer.
Donate: When your fair concludes, weigh all of your items, donate to a local food bank and report your success to Farm Credit Mid-America.
Celebrate: Let your community know what you accomplished; top donors will be awarded additional winnings.

For more information, visit Farm Credit Mid-America’s Community Investment website.

The World Needs More McArthurs

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 20:55:05 GMT

There’s a new song in country music that’s striking a chord with American farm families.

“McArthur,” sung by Hardy, Eric Church, Morgan Wallen and Tim McGraw, tells the story of a farm passed through four generations of the same family. Each verse introduces a new McArthur, carrying the land forward in his own time, shaped by different circumstances but tied to the same piece of ground.

That’s the same story many farmers are living today. And if you haven’t heard it yet, take a listen.

John McArthur

The song begins with John McArthur, a man working the land with a mule and a plow to provide for his family. As the first generation, John spends his days laying the foundation of the farm. He doesn’t know what the future holds for the operation, but he knows the work is worth it.

Every farm has this first generation: the person who gave the farm its start. Our grandparents or great-grandparents built the farm out of necessity without knowing what was ahead.

They planted the first crops, cleared the first fields and figured things out as they went. The decisions they made might not have seemed big at the time, but they laid the groundwork for the generations that followed. Even without a map, they knew the farm was something worth building and passing on.

Junior McArthur

Next comes Junior McArthur, the son who steps up to take over the farm but is sent off to war and never returns home.

He represents the second generation: the ones who take over a farm that’s already established but face challenges much different from what their parents experienced. Where John built the foundation, Junior inherits it and has to figure out how to keep it going.

Jones McArthur

After Junior comes Jones McArthur, the third generation to farm the same ground. By the time it’s his turn, the farm is running smoother, but the problems he’s dealing with aren’t the same ones his dad faced. He represents the generation trying to respect what was built while figuring out how to make it work in a more modern world.

In the song, Jones is also the one trying to pass along the lessons he learned growing up on the farm. He understands the value of the land and the work that went into building it, and he tries to teach his son the same thing.

But his son comes home from college seeing something different. Where Jones sees a family history, his son sees the dollar signs tied to the land.

Hunter McArthur

Finally, the song introduces Hunter McArthur. He’s the fourth generation, the one now standing in front of the decision many farms eventually face.

In the lyrics, Hunter is presented with a deal that would turn the farm into a neighborhood. It’s a tempting offer. After generations of hard work, the land is suddenly worth a lot of money.

Hunter represents the generation many farms are looking to today. The farm is established and the land has significant value, but the question becomes what to do with it next.

For many young farmers, this generation faces a different set of decisions from the ones before them. They have more opportunities off the farm and often more outside pressure pulling them in different directions. At the same time, they’re inheriting or buying into farms that have decades of work behind them.

A Familiar Tune

At the end of each generation’s part in the song, a line is sung: “When you pass on, what are you going to pass down?”

Farming has always been about passing things along. Each generation takes what the last one started and tries to make it better, but that chain only works if someone is willing to take the next link.

Today, the pressures on the next generation are real. Land values keep climbing, development keeps pushing farther into the countryside, and, for some families, the offer to sell the farm is hard to pass up. But most farms exist because someone in the previous generation chose to keep it going. They made improvements and worked through challenges with the idea that the farm would be there for the next generation to build on.

The world could use more farmers like the McArthurs. So, when it’s time to think about the next generation, ask yourself this: When you pass on, what are you going to pass down?

For more on succession planing, read:

The Grace of the Stillness: A Lesson in Healing

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 14:00:28 GMT

In the span of just two weeks, the rhythm of my life was violently disrupted, replaced by a forced stillness that I never saw coming. It began on the evening of February 27, when a black truck turned left directly into my vehicle’s path. The impact was high-velocity and terrifying, painting my mid-section with a map of deep purple contusions and bruising that stretched from hip to hip. But as I sat in the quiet aftermath of deployed airbags and twisted metal, my physical pain was eclipsed by a profound sense of luck. My husband and I walked away. We were alive. We were discharged to go home. The script of that night could have been written very differently, and we knew it.

However, survival was only the first chapter. Just a few days later, I moved from the trauma of the near-fatal accident into the sterile reality of a planned surgery — one that carried a daunting eight-week recovery timeline. Suddenly, the woman who is used to directing the flow of a busy household and a demanding career found herself anchored to a bed, restricted by a 10 lb. lifting limit and the heavy fog of pain medication and fatigue.

Then, as if to test the very limits of my resolve, the sky turned white. A spring blizzard swept across the farm, bringing with it the biting wind and heavy snow that demands every hand on deck. From my window, I watched the world turn cold while my home hummed with a different kind of energy. Because it was spring break, all of my children were home. And because of the elements that Mother Nature graced us with, they were outside, plowing snow, bedding calf huts and taking over the extra chores that define farm life in a storm.

The Weight of the “Mind Over Matter” Mantra

As I watched them, a heavy, suffocating sense of guilt filled the room. I wanted to be out there. I wanted to be of service, to be the one hauling the buckets or — at the very least — the one standing over a hot stove preparing a meal for the exhausted crew coming in from the cold. Growing up on a farm, often we are raised on a steady mantra “mind over matter.” Farm women are legendary for their toughness. We are the ones who push through the flu, the ones who work until the job is done, the ones who equate our value with our productivity.

But as I lay there, sore and exhausted, I realized my toughness was being called upon in a way I hadn’t practiced before. I had to learn the foreign concept of extending grace to myself.

Strength Through Grace

I had to understand rest isn’t a lapse in character. It is a required ingredient for a future of service. To truly lead my family and my community, I had to lead by example in the art of self-care. I had to embrace the season of stillness I was in, allowing my body and mind to knit themselves back together. I had to accept that for this brief moment in time, the most productive thing I could do was to kick my feet up and sleep.

It is so much easier said than done. It feels like a betrayal of our nature to let others wait on us. Yet there is a sacredness in allowing those you have spent your life serving to serve you in return. It allows them to grow, and it allows you to heal.

If you find yourself in a season where you are doing “less,” please listen to your body and your doctor. Do not mistake rest for weakness. Whether you are recovering from a literal collision or the metaphorical storms of life, remember the farm will stand, the chores will get done, the farm family will manage to find something to eat and the world will keep turning. Allow yourself the grace to be still. For once, let the help come to you. Because in the end, that is the only way we truly heal.

Don’t Push Pause: How a Near-Fatal Accident Made Our Farm Succession Plan Crystal Clear

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:57:35 GMT

The last Friday in February was supposed to be a victory lap for a winter well-spent. It was a rare 65°F gift from the Illinois sky. The kind of afternoon where the sun feels like a promise of the spring to come.

My husband, Scott, and our youngest son, Jacob, spent the afternoon moving cattle between sites. It’s a project that usually takes three or four hours, and as any farmer knows, the cattle rarely cooperate. But Jacob did. He was right there, shoulder-to-shoulder with his dad. Our oldest son, Tyler, was home from college for the weekend, helping on the dairy with cattle work. It was one of those perfect, productive days where everyone was basking in the sunshine, the rhythm of the farm moving in a steady, beautiful cadence.

When the clock hit 5:00 p.m., Scott was ready to call it a day. Our local high school boys’ basketball team had made it to regionals, and we wanted to be there to cheer them on. We climbed into our SUV, chatting about the chores we’d finished and enjoying the lingering warmth of the day.

We were only a mile from our farm when the world shattered.

It happened in a blink. A truck made a mad dash across the four-lane highway, blindsiding us. There was no time to swerve, no time to brake. The police report would later confirm what we already knew: there was nothing we could have done.

Everyone tells you that life can change in a split second, but until you are sitting in the wreckage of mangled steel, surrounded by a dozen deployed airbags and the smell of gunpowder and dust, you don’t truly understand it. As we hit, I felt the impact vibrate through my very bones. I immediately started to pray. “We will be okay. God, make us okay.”

Through the haze of smoke and shock, Scott’s voice was the only thing I could hear. He was a trooper, his own safety forgotten.

“Karen, are you okay?” he asked, over and over.

I wanted to scream that I was fine. I wanted to tell him I was right there. But the shock was a physical weight. My mouth opened, a moan escaped, but the words were trapped behind a wall of trauma. I couldn’t speak.

The rest of the evening was a blur of sirens, flashing lights and the sterile white walls of the ER. The ambulance took me away; the tow truck took what was left of our vehicle. We spent the night under fluorescent lights, but we walked away. We got to go home.

In the days that followed, a deep, heavy appreciation for life settled over our house. I am thankful to be writing this story, though I would give anything to have never lived it. But the most emotional moment didn’t happen at the crash site; it happened at our farm.

(Karen Bohnert)

Our children asked the question every farm kid fears: “What would happen if both of you had passed?”

I cried. But for the first time, I could answer them with certainty. I told them about the will. I told them it was all outlined, all documented. It took me losing both of my parents and my brother — and writing about other families’ succession plans gone wrong for years — before we finally sat down and finalized our own a decade ago.

I think back to my own parents. It took them losing their own son — my brother — in an automobile accident to finally lean forward and be brave enough to talk about their own will. They put a plan together soon after and revised it a few times over the years. When the time came that we eventually lost our parents, my sisters and I were so incredibly thankful we did not have to worry about the logistics during our grief. My parents had it all documented. They gave us that peace of mind.

Farmers, I am pleading with you: Don’t push pause.

Don’t wait for a sunny day to have the conversation. Or a rain day. The highway doesn’t care about your schedule. Don’t wait because it’s an uncomfortable conversation; it will never get easier. Don’t wait because you aren’t sure what is “fair” or what is “best.”

Start the conversation today. Meet with a lawyer. Get it documented. You can always change and revise it — we already have once since we started.

I am so incredibly thankful that today, my kids are out in the dirt helping on the farm instead of sitting in a lawyer’s office reading a will. I am thankful they didn’t lose their parents on an Illinois highway. But mostly, I am thankful that if the worst had happened, they wouldn’t have been left in the dark.

Don’t wait. Your legacy is too important to leave to chance.

Love on the Farm Means Managing Stress Together

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 21:10:29 GMT

On today’s farms and ranches, the toughest conversations don’t always happen in the farm office. They happen with your spouse at the kitchen table or in the last few minutes before turning in for the night. That stress of farm life is constant, and it can easily spill over into your relationship.

To help couples navigate these everyday pressures, Sean Brotherson, family science specialist with North Dakota State University, and Kale Monk, associate professor of human development and family science at the University of Missouri share practical strategies couples can use to manage that stress together so they can stay connected, handle the pressures of the season and keep both their farm and their partnership running smoothly.

Where Does Stress Show Up?

Stress can show up in all sorts of everyday situations on the farm, often in ways that feel routine but can add pressure to a relationship. Here are some common areas where couples on farms and ranches may feel that tension:

Planting, harvest and busy seasons often mean long days, leaving little time for meals together, errands or family activities.
Taking an off-farm job can shift responsibilities at home, creating different role expectations than maybe what was expected.
Weekend work or caring for children can make it hard to find time for meaningful moments to connect together like date nights or family meals.

As many know, these kinds of situations are a normal part of life on a farm. But catching stress early gives couples a chance to talk it out and deal with issues before they turn into bigger problems.

Tips for Staying Connected When Farm Life Gets Busy

When life on the farm gets hectic, it’s easy for stress to take over and for couples to drift apart without even realizing it. However, small everyday habits can help keep you connected even when life feels nonstop. Brotherson and Monk list 12 tips couples can use to stay connected and support each other while managing the demands of farm and family life.

Plan Together

“Set measurable goals together for a year from now, five years from now and your lifetime together,” Brotherson says. “Make decisions about time together in farming/ranching, other jobs or retirement. Then, focus on enjoying what you have decided to do.”

Planning together is a good first step, but keeping your connection strong takes daily check-ins and small ways of looking out for each other.
Check In Daily

“Look for and give attention to early indications of stress, such as a furrowed brow or a tense voice,” Brotherson says. “Respond with love and attention as needed.”
Express Appreciation

“Take time daily to state one item you appreciate about your partner,” Brotherson says.

Showing gratitude isn’t just about being polite. Taking the time to notice and acknowledge the little things your partner does can make both of you feel more connected, appreciated and supported.

“When your partner does something you appreciate, it’s vital to express gratitude,” Monk adds. “This makes partners feel valued and helps us see how we can keep pleasing each other.”
Use Clear Communication

“In talking, use ‘I’ statements more than ‘you’ statements,” Brotherson says. “Your partner will likely not change if you argue, ‘You’re always wanting to buy something else!’ Instead, try using an ‘I’ statement, like ‘I get worried and angry when I hear you wanting to buy a new piece of equipment. What I’d like is for the two of us to sit down and decide together which major purchases we can afford.’”
Listen Carefully

“Especially on serious matters, it is important to listen well and help your partner feel they have been heard and understood,” Brotherson notes. “Listen so that you can repeat back to your partner’s satisfaction what she or he says and feels. Focus on listening without being upset or defensive.”
Be Flexible With Roles

“Letting others do things you usually do and adjusting your expectations when necessary can reduce pressures,” Brotherson adds. “Share the responsibility of things such as family chores, cooking or kid care.”
Schedule Time to Talk

“When problems arise, schedule time for the two of you to brainstorm and discuss ideas,” Brotherson says. “Weigh the costs and benefits of each solution. Arrive at a plan that enables both of you to get something you want.”
Set Aside Time as a Couple

“To keep your marriage or partnership growing, take a break from the work, the children or other distractions. If it helps, make it a rule to talk about only yourselves as a couple and not about the farm or ranch operation.”

Taking that time together doesn’t have to be serious. Making it fun can make it even more meaningful.

“The more ridiculous or fun the activity, the better, in my opinion,” Monk adds. “Do something that makes both of you laugh and enjoy each other’s company.”
Use Social Media Sparingly
Social media can be a great way to stay connected with friends and family or share pride and appreciation for your partner. But it can also create stress, spark jealousy or make us compare our lives to the polished versions others post online.

“If we try to ‘keep up’, these artificially positive glimpses into other people’s lives can leave us feeling discouraged and resentful. Becoming consumed by social media and posting excessively can indicate growing insecurity in ourselves or our relationships.”
Laugh Together
On a farm, the days are long and there’s always something demanding your attention. Brotherson suggests taking a few minutes to laugh at a small mistake or a silly moment to lighten the mood and get through the day.

“Remember, always being serious is stressful while laughter reduces stress,” Brotherson says. “Watch a funny movie, share funny stories or find other ways to laugh.”
Celebrate Milestones

“Celebrate your anniversary, birthday, the arrival of a new foal or calf, getting the field planted before the rain and other milestones. Take joy in your lives together,” Brotherson says.
Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help
Every relationship is unique, Monk says, and what works for one couple may not work for another. Partners have different needs and respond differently depending on their background, culture or experiences. If you ever feel unsure about handling challenges on your own, consider seeking therapy or counseling.

“Remember that therapy is not only for troubled relationships,” Monk adds. “Therapy can help preserve relationship happiness and prevent problems before significant conflicts arise.”

Build a Strong Partnership Over Time

Stress is a normal part of farm life. However, couples who practice daily communication, show appreciation and remain flexible often find they are better equipped to handle the pressures that come with farming or ranching.

By being intentional about their relationship, farm couples are better able to handle the busy seasons, the hard days and the everyday demands of agriculture while keeping their relationship just as much of a priority as the work.

Tragic Turn: Trailer of Show Pigs Bursts Into Flames on I-80

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 20:50:48 GMT

With the windows rolled down and the sun on his face, Chad Rieck admits he was having a pretty good day driving down Interstate 80. He was pulling a trailer with four gilts, and one of those gilts was bringing home the title of Third Overall Purebred Breeding Gilt from the Aksarben Stock Show.

For Chad and his wife, Amy, spending precious time with their 17-year-old daughter Hollynn at a stock show is something they don’t take for granted. Their busy daughter, now a senior, was juggling the show weekend with homecoming, volleyball and dance team. Because of this, she drove separately to the show with her mom to squeeze in more of her school activities.

Separated by a couple minutes on the interstate, they were chatting on the phone keeping each other awake on the drive from Grand Island, Neb., back to their farm in Creston, Iowa. Suddenly, the traffic slowed down and their day took a tragic turn.

A car burning alongside I-80 held up traffic for miles.

(NDOT)

Igniting the Fire

“I remember my wife saying, ‘Traffic is starting to get bad,’” Rieck recalls. “I told her there was an accident up ahead and we’d get through it eventually.”

When he came upon the scene, he discovered a car burning alongside the road. By this time, he had rolled up his windows and slowly drove by the car. No emergency vehicles were on the scene, so Chad estimates the fire had probably started within three to five minutes of when he passed it.

“The front of the car was fully engulfed in flames,” Rieck describes. “The driver’s portion to the back of the car was starting to get hot – hot, hot flames. My fear of driving by was, ‘What if there’s a gas tank there, and that gas tank blows? That’s going to be bad.’”

When he drove by, something burst.

“It wasn’t the gas tank that blew, but something, whether it was a fuel line, a tire or whatever, blew a ‘poof’ of flames,” he says.

About a mile after he passed the car on fire – maybe one or two minutes at most – Rieck noticed smoke rolling out of the trailer. At first, he thought maybe some smoke from the fire got in through the open trailer windows. Then, he wondered if he blew a tire.

“I’m looking in the mirrors checking for that and continually rolling,” he says. “I see a semi behind me begin to flash his lights at me. That’s when I thought, ‘Okay, I’ve got problems.’”

Fortunately, he was coming upon an exit ramp. He jumped off the interstate and threw the truck in park as soon as he could.

“My wife’s still on the phone with me at this point,” he says. “I jump out of the truck and see the trucker running up with a couple of fire extinguishers. Because of him, I was able to get the back doors opened on the trailer. We got most of the flames down but didn’t have enough to get the fire completely out.”

When he opened the door, he saw that their banner-winning Poland China gilt was already dead, but the three other pigs were hanging on to life.

“The Poland gilt was on the back of the trailer and had somehow broken out of her pen trying to get away,” he says.

The burning trailer was caught on camera by the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT).

(NDOT)

Roadside Rescue

The fire picked up again as he tried to figure out how to get the pigs off the trailer.

“When I parked the trailer at the show, we left some tack in the trailer. So, I locked the ramp and the driver side walk-through door,” he explains. “I ran to get the key that I thought was in the truck, but there was no key there. Now, I’m just frantic.”

With no way to get to the three pigs still on the trailer, he grabbed for the big cart they hauled tack with that was standing upright in the back pen.

“Not a smart deal,” Rieck recalls. “I grabbed it with my hand, and now I’ve got some nice blisters. But even if I could have moved that cart, it wouldn’t have mattered. I had to get the pigs out the side ramp.”

The trucker ran back with a crowbar and Rieck broke the latches off the ramp door to get the ramp down. Flames greeted him. He was running out of options. He ran around to the other side’s ramp, broke that latch off and ended up getting two pigs out.

“The third pig was scared and wouldn’t come out, so I had to reach in through one of the sides to push her out,” he says. “I ended up with some burns on my arm from that, but I finally got her out.”

At this point, the trailer is still on fire. The trucker told Rieck to unhook his truck and pull it away from the trailer now that the pigs were out.

“I would have never thought of doing that,” he adds. “We had a gas can and small generator in the tack room of the trailer, so I went to work to get that out of there before we had an even bigger problem. Fortunately, the tack room was in decent shape, likely because there was a door between it and the main part of the trailer.”

Once the fire truck arrived, they focused on the trailer first. Megan Hobbs says she was able to gather buckets from the tack room to start filling to get to water all three pigs who were alive at the time. Unfortunately, they lost the Duroc, so they had to turn their focus to the remaining two.

(Megan Hobbs)

Meanwhile, people began showing up and helping with the pigs that were now scattered.

“I had one pig walking down the exit ramp,” Rieck says. “Meanwhile, one gilt was hunkered down under a tree in the ditch and the third was dying alongside the exit ramp. I’m in shock at this point – walking around and asking myself why.”

Stock show people he had never met before like Joe and Megan Hobbs of Newton, Kan., turned around and came back to help.

“As soon as we arrived at the scene, there was another young lady who worked for Legacy Livestock Imaging that had also stopped to help,” explains Megan Hobbs. “We immediately just jumped into action getting any and all water available to help cool the pigs down. At the beginning all we had was cooler water and water bottles. In those situations you don’t ask for permission, you just go with what your gut tells you to do.”

(Chad Rieck)

A Little Bit Ironic

When the York Fire Department showed up, they quickly went to work extinguishing the fire in the trailer. Hobbs says she kept running water back and forth from the firetruck to the people caring for the gilts alongside the road.

“God put us in the right place at the right time,” Hobbs says. “We trusted our gut turning around to go help as we just knew it was probably one of our own from the livestock industry that needed help.”

The firefighters on the scene also reached out to a firefighter in a nearby department, David May, who had show pigs.

“I received a call from dispatch when I was about 5 miles from my farm heading home with pigs from the show,” May says. “They said there was a vehicle fire involving a trailer with larger pigs and asked if I could help wrangle and haul the surviving pigs. Of course, I didn’t hesitate and was already on the move.”

May devised a plan to get his pigs off his trailer quickly and navigate through the piled-up interstate traffic.

“I had my 16-year-old daughter Braxtyn with me, so we began talking through things on the drive there,” May says. “I even joked with her, ‘It’s probably someone who kicked our butt today.’ But that didn’t cause either of us to hesitate to help however possible.”

When May got to the scene, he immediately recognized the pickup. It had been parked directly beside his truck during loadout about 45 minutes ago.

“I recognized the people and confirmed I didn’t know them,” May says. “I parked and walked up to assess and gather information. Within a minute, another Iowa trailer showed up to get the live hogs. We discussed what to do with the now two deceased pigs. I offered to put them on my trailer and dispose.”

After all the pigs were on trailers and the firefighters had inspected Rieck’s trailer to confirm it was safe to haul home, Rieck went over to talk to Braxtyn and thank her for coming to help.

Hollynn Rieck’s Champion Poland and Third Overall Purebred Breeding Gilt at Aksarben.

(Legacy Livestock Imaging)

“For some reason, I wanted to try to cheer this kid up who had just seen this devastation,” Rieck says. “I tried to distract her by asking if she showed a pig that day, and she said, ‘Yes, I was third place with my Poland gilt.’”

It was definitely a little ironic, both dads admit. Their kids had been competing against each other just a few hours earlier. They loaded their pigs up beside each other and took off about the same time. As they got back into their trucks and trailers for the second time that day, they both spent some time reflecting on their drive home.

A Case of Bad Luck

Hollynn drove her dad back in the truck and trailer because he was still in shock. All Rieck could think about was what he could have done differently.

“I saw a number of trailers roll right on by as we stood there with the trailer smoldering,” Rieck says. “I know the next time I see a car fire, I’m going to feel like Ricky Bobby in Talladega Nights. I’m going to be like, ‘Don’t drive through it.’ Maybe I could have gotten in the ditch more, but that’s not safe either.”

It was the kind of incident that you could never predict, May says. Typically, a trailer fire starts with a bad wheel bearing, then the wheel gets hot or locks up. Eventually, the tire catches on fire and results in heavy black smoke that’s easily visible.

(Chad Rieck)

“Most livestock trailer fires start on the outside of the trailer,” May says. “But this fire started inside the trailer. This was a completely freak accident.”

The odds of something hot coming off the car at the precise moment Rieck drove by while also entering the trailer is one in trillions, he adds.

“It’s a bad-luck lottery. It could never have been predicted,” May says. “But, just like so many instances in life, you just have to react and adapt as plans change.”

Still, Rieck says he learned some valuable lessons going through this experience. He will make sure his next trailer has fire extinguishers. He won’t travel with his doors locked on his trailer. He’s also going to invest in some wireless cameras to put into his trailer.

Stock Show Support

When they returned home, a veterinarian confirmed the gilts who survived the trailer fire needed to be euthanized, as their injuries were too severe. Rieck says it was hard on Hollynn to walk through an empty pig barn the next day. Although it’s not an uncommon thing, as every show season comes to an end, this was not the ending she expected. She had high hopes of taking the Poland gilt to the American Royal in a few weeks.

Hollynn won Champion Poland China Gilt and Third Overall Purebred Breeding Gilt at Aksarben.

(Amy Rieck)

For Rieck, the hardest part was calling the breeders who leased them the gilts and telling them what happened.

“The personal financial portion of this isn’t much compared to having to contact those breeders and let them know about the fire,” Rieck says. “We work with Hunter Langholff to get some of our pigs. I can only imagine what the conversation was like with me screaming and yelling about the pigs right after it happened. I’ll never forget Hunter calmly saying, ‘Do not worry about that. These breeders will only care that you, Hollynn and Amy are fine. Pigs can be replaced.’”

With a few tears in his eyes, Rieck says he never wants to take his stock show friends for granted.

“Stock show people are pretty special,” he adds. “Because guess what? We all wanted to win that day. We raise our kids in the show ring and in the show barn for a reason. It’s so we can be around these people. My daughter is going to be a much stronger person because of the experiences that she’s had winning and losing in the show ring and yes, even going through this trailer fire.”

Hollynn says she’s already learned a lot from the fire.

“I am so thankful for all of the people who stopped to help us during our emergency,” she says. “This is living proof that the stock show industry is the best thing to be a part of. The amount of love, thoughts and prayers I have received from people has been astronomical. At the end of the day, I am just grateful my family is ok and that I will forever be a part of such an amazing industry.”

As May reflects on what happened, he says he’s not surprised by the overwhelming support people provided to the Rieck family.

“It’s what we do for each other in all aspects of agriculture, not just livestock,” May says. “I’m glad I was able to assist as needed here and glad my daughter was able to see value in helping others even when it’s not always pretty fairy dust and rainbows.”

Farm Moms: Balance Harvests and Heart with Practical Meal Tips

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 14:19:48 GMT

Harvest time is a season of relentless energy and unwavering dedication. As the roar of a diesel tractor marks the beginning of the summer harvest, some farm families opt for a plan that merges practicality with care. A couple of dairy farm moms share how they have perfected the balancing act of feeding and nurturing their families amidst the busiest times of the year.

The Practical Pioneer: Emily Zweber, Minnesota Farm Mom
In Elko, Minn., dairy mom Emily Zweber has been navigating hay season alongside her husband for over two decades. Her secret? Simple, yet effective meal prep. Over the years, Zweber has discovered special field meals aren’t a necessity.

“If that is your thing, awesome,” she says with encouragement. “But also, if special field meals aren’t your thing, awesome.”

Working side-by-side on their dairy farm with her husband Tim, and their trio of children, Zweber milks 100 grass-fed, organic cows and manages 400 acres. Amidst this, she sends her crew out with lunchboxes filled with “preschool snacks,” designed to be eaten with dirty hands, that can endure a day in a warm lunch box. The selection includes apples, frozen string cheese, veggie pouches, and, of course, the humble PB&J.

Zweber’s message is empowering: farm moms shouldn’t stress over juggling multiple roles. The pressure to achieve perfection is replaced by her mantra to work smarter, not harder.

The Efficient Enthusiast: Kristina Haverkamp, Kansas Farm Mom
Echoing Zweber’s sentiments is Kristina Haverkamp from Seneca, Kan. Juggling a full kitchen in the shop and an acreage of responsibility, Haverkamp keeps her refrigerator stocked with sandwich staples and healthy snacks. The convenience is vital as every load of silage is weighed at their shop.

“I ensure the fridge is stocked with cold water and even cold beer for the end of the day,” Haverkamp shares.

When the workload intensifies, she prepares goody bags with a hot sandwich and additional snacks. For Haverkamp, it’s all about maintaining momentum and boosting morale.

Despite her busy schedule of chores, she orchestrates this routine seamlessly. Her efforts ensure everyone is content, allowing the farming operations to continue without a hitch.

“Hats off to all of us who work in acres not hours,” Haverkamp declares, celebrating the tireless spirit of farm moms everywhere.

Zweber and Haverkamp showcase a common truth among farm moms across the U.S. – efficiency without sacrificing heart. As farm wives and mothers become increasingly busy this time of year, there’s a gentle reminder from these seasoned experts: it’s perfectly okay to work smarter.

Best Tips
Cooking for a crowd doesn’t have to be a burden. In fact, some of the best meals are born from simplicity and a touch of innovation. Whether it’s a one-pot wonder, a quick bite between tasks, or a hearty dish that fuels the entire team, your tips can transform the way we see meal preparation — not just as a chore, but as a way to nourish our community.

So, fellow farm warriors, what’s your favorite field meal snack or tip? Truth be told, most moms hate the question, “What’s for dinner?” So, when the meal load becomes heavy — as we are not only feeding our families, but also the crew helping us farm — let’s rally together, supporting each other through the rhythmic dance of farming and family life.

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The Strategy Behind an Eight-Generation Dairy Legacy

There's No Tired Like State Fair Tired

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 14:58:47 GMT

You don’t know tired until you know end-of-state-fair tired. 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. I know I showered today, but it probably wasn’t obvious as I was instantly covered in dirt, sweat and who knows what within my first hour in the barn.

I realize I am not the only one who feels this way as I’m greeted by fellow show parents suffering from the same affliction. We knowingly nod and putter on, cleaning pens, tidying up our tack areas and adding more ice to the cooler.

Sadly, state fair mini donuts and coffee aren’t enough to wake us from the state fair stupor.

But goodness, it’s a good kind of tired. It’s the kind of tired that reminds me there is nothing better than working hard for something and knowing you gave it your best.

It’s the kind of tired knowing that this week you anticipate all year is coming to an end, requiring you to move on to the next thing. But truth be told, you just want time to stand still for a few minutes so you can soak it all in through those tired eyes.

Because these are the moments we live for as show parents.

The fierce determination on her face as she takes her first sheep into the show ring at the state fair.

(Cindy’s Livestock Photos)
The conversations and coaching on the way to the show ring.

(Jennifer Shike)
The laughter of kids united by a common passion, kids who see the world through a different lens than others.

(Jennifer Shike)

The friend who always steps in to help without being asked.

(Jennifer Shike)

The smile she can’t contain as she shakes the judge’s hand.

(BROOKLYNN SALO/Cindy’s Livestock Photos)
The connection between kids and animals that reminds you there are some places in your heart that humans can’t fill.

(Jennifer Shike)

We live a lot of life in these show barns. Some of it’s fun to talk about and some of it’s not. But in the good times and in the tough times, we grow and we learn. We find out how to understand others better and we realize this world isn’t all about us. We get humbled, we get praised, we get hurt, we get redeemed, and we gain perspective.

These tired eyes aren’t just for lack of sleep during state fair week, but rather for a lot of life lived.

Parents aren’t the only tired ones!

(Jennifer Shike)

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Back to School or Back to Basics? The Clash Between Education and State Fairs

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 14:20:34 GMT

Shifts in school start dates over the years has stirred quite the conversation, particularly as it disrupts cherished summer activities.

Gone are the days when school began only after Labor Day — a move that heralded the official end of summer. Nowadays, many schools have adopted earlier start dates, often colliding with events that shape the lives of children and families, such as state fairs.

This scenario hits home for many, including my children, who often find themselves caught between preparing for the school year and participating in the state fair. A notable change, driven by the pressing need to address educational challenges like students falling behind, has led to the proposal of shortening breaks. However, some states understand the deep-rooted value of these breaks and have historically taken a stance to preserve them.

The Iowa Model: Balancing Education and Tradition

Take Iowa, for instance, where a law traditionally prevents schools from opening before the Iowa State Fair ends, commonly setting the school start after Aug. 23. This preservation allows students and their families to fully engage with the fair — an event deeply embedded in their culture, free from academic interruptions.

What remains unseen by many are the critical life lessons learned in the show ring and livestock barns at these fairs. Here, children embrace both victory and defeat, gaining a profound understanding that while everyone yearns to win, experiencing a loss is vital. Teamwork is at the heart of participating in livestock exhibitions. Families and exhibitors collaborate extensively to prepare animals for the show, a process that involves much more than fair week fun; it spans many months of hard work.

Lessons Beyond the Classroom

Children learn essential responsibilities through caring for their livestock, which includes feeding, watering, walking and washing them. These lessons of accountability are challenging to impart during the first week of school.

The fair also fosters sportsmanship and leadership. Encouraging others, shaking hands with competitors, and maintaining grace under pressure are integral experiences that teach resilience. As they return to the fair annually, kids naturally take on more leadership roles.

When the school start date overlaps with the state fair, it creates significant tension for kids and their families. This conflict intensifies for those involved in sports, with the stakes of missing practice leading to potential penalties like reduced playing time.

A Call for Change

The solution lies in following Iowa’s lead: delaying the start of the school year until after the conclusion of state fair season. This adjustment allows children to embrace both the lessons learned at the fair and those taught in school.

Let kids be kids; let them learn life’s best lessons in livestock show arenas. The lessons they garner in barns and show rings often outweigh what they might learn in a classroom setting.

In my opinion, it’s time for more states to recognize this, for the benefit of our children and our rich traditions.

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The Two Worst Words a Farm Kid Can Say

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 14:18:10 GMT

Growing up on a farm is a unique experience that shapes vocabulary, attitude and lifestyle in countless ways. 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: “I’m bored.” In fact, these two little words should never escape the lips of a farm kid. On a farm, “boredom” is akin to a curse word, a concept almost as foreign as a cow that milks itself.

If, by some rare chance, a farm kid proclaims boredom, rest assured the farmer will always have a response, usually in the form of work. From fixing fences to milking cows, the endless list of tasks ensures there’s always something to occupy one’s time. Growing up, the idea of being bored was so unfathomable that even as a mere whisper, it would trigger an avalanche of chores.

I remember telling my mother, I was bored, could I go to the mall. My father overheard and said that rocks needed picked from the cattle corral.

In a world where other children would spend summer days at the mall or at a pool or watching television, farm kids are busy hauling manure, feeding calves, mowing grass, vaccinating cows, baling hay, getting their prize show animals ready for the fair and other tasks under the summer sun. During my own childhood, these activities kept me so occupied the notion of boredom seemed laughable.

The sheer sense of community and responsibility that arises from sharing in the farm work creates a mindset where leisure activities, such as trips to the movies or the mall, are rare and treasured luxuries.

Farm life might not be Instagram-worthy at times, but it certainly prepares children for the real world, as they learn resilience and a strong work ethic from an early age. If your own farm kids have ever echoed this curse word, how did you respond? Maybe you directed them toward the nearest trough that required cleaning or farm equipment to be washed.

Farm life is as much about character-building as it is about growing crops or raising livestock. It teaches adaptability and instills a sense of fulfillment born from hard work. The next time “I’m bored” is uttered, take it as an invitation to instill these valuable lessons, ensuring future generations uphold the traditions that make farm life so unique.

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Beef Counts: Making a Difference

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 16:57:45 GMT

Cattle producers understand the nutritional value of beef and protein demand is at an all-time high. While consumers continue to buy beef at retail and through food service, another sector of the population is also in need of this valuable, nutrient dense protein — those dealing with food insecurity.

“Protein is always in demand, and it’s one of the things that is hard to get donated,” says Amy Luginbill, development manager with the Idaho Foodbank. “The Beef Counts program, really helps us ensure we’re able to provide quality beef, quality protein to folks across Idaho.”

Luginbill says 12.7% of the population in Idaho is affected by food insecurity.

Mobile distribution included beef, which is a much needed source of nutrients, along with donated produce, fruit, vegetables, yogurt and canned goods.

(Maggie Malson)

“On average we serve 211,000 people throughout the state each month,” she says.

Of the food distributed, 15% is protein.

“Protein is just an essential part of a well-rounded diet,” Luginbill adds. “The Beef Counts program helps us ensure protein is available and we’re meeting the nutrition needs to provide nourishment and food to folks who need it.”

Beef Counts was the first program of its kind and began in Idaho and Washington in 2010 as a rancher-led initiative to provide a more consistent supply of protein to those in need through the Idaho Foodbank. Partners in the collaboration include AgriBeef, the Idaho Cattle Association, the Idaho CattleWomen and the Idaho Beef Council. In Washington, ranchers partner with AgriBeef, the Washington Beef Council and 2nd Harvest. Donations to the program are used to purchase beef.

“The Beef Counts program has allowed us to provide 230,000 servings of beef throughout Idaho last year. This year, we’re on track to meet or exceed that,” Luginbill says.

In total since its inception, Beef Counts has provided more than 2.6 million servings of beef in Idaho and 1.4 million in Washington. And it’s donations from producers that make the difference.

John Hepton, of Hepton Livestock in Wilder, Idaho, has been involved with Beef Counts for five years. As a cattle feeder, he understands the importance of the product he and his customers work so hard to produce and has a mission to uniquely feed the world through beef. His company has always donated beef to local organizations where he has feeding entities. This year, they decided to make a bigger impact.

“We thought ‘What if we could provide 100 meals a day to the Idaho Food Bank that included beef?’. So, we got with the food bank, and they got with the Beef Council. Through the Beef Counts program, we do that every single day,” Hepton says.

Protein is a much needed source for food banks. Donations are matched and beef is provided by AgriBeef Co.

(Maggie Malson)

Hepton and additional industry partners, like Advantage Veterinary, are excited to have a way for everybody to be involved.

“They’re working in the heat, snow and rain, and they’re proud of what they do,” Hepton says. “They’re proud of how they take care of cattle. They’re proud of the beef they produce. They can all be a part of donating this great product that they put their heart and soul into, and help families in need in Idaho.”

Hepton encourages other ranchers and ag businesses to get involved with the program.

“We’ve had such fun doing it together as a group of cattle feeders,” he says. “We have some of the vendors we do business with and banking institutions donating to Beef Counts now. Our mission is to uniquely feed the world and encourage other people to do the same. We’re really involved in 4-H and FFA, and we want to spread that message as much as we can to use the product that we work so hard to produce to donate to hungry families.”

Overcoming Burnout in the Agriculture Industry

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 11:31:15 GMT

Burnout isn’t always about doing too much. Sometimes it’s about doing the wrong mix of work or carrying all of the mental load on top of the physical. That’s according to Kacee Bohle, who runs AgriMinds , a group coaching business for members of the agriculture industry.

“You can still have a full plate and feel fine, especially if you’re doing stuff that energizes you,” she says. “But what happens when every single part of your day feels like a chore, even the stuff that you used to love? That’s when you know stuff is starting to get off. You can feel burnt out, even when you love or loved the type of work that you do.”

For business owners, farmers, ranchers and ag professionals, Bohle says people often judge themselves for having negative thoughts about the work they have chosen to do in a field they love. There is pressure to carry on the family legacy and love every part of it, and to feel proud of the work.

“Burnout doesn’t care who you are,” she says. “Burnout doesn’t care who’s in charge. It shows up when you’re over extended, misaligned, and you’re trying to carry all the things all the time without any support,” she explains.

Sometimes the work isn’t optional. The gate needs fixed. The field work needs done. The livestock need fed. Bohle points out even when the tasks can’t change, the conversation can. Sometimes it’s not the physical work that is causing burnout, but the mindset surrounding the work.

“What I mean is I want you to start noticing what expectations, pressure or guilt that you’ve been piling on top of the already heavy stuff,” she explains. “Sometimes what’s extinguishing you isn’t the work, it’s the story that you’re telling yourself about the work.”

For example, it could look like thoughts that are similar to: I should be able to handle this. I shouldn’t be tired. I chose this. I don’t have time to feel burnt out. I just need to push through this. It’ll eventually go away.

As Bohle points out, pushing through only works so long.

“There’s only so much you can brush under the rug before it starts seeping out, bulging and tripping you up,” Bohle says. “Eventually, your energy runs out, and if your mindset isn’t giving you any grace or flexibility, everything is just going to continue to feel harder.”

Can you extinguish burnout? Start with what you can control.

An exercise to address burnout is to create two lists. Write down what gives you energy and what drains you, Bohle suggests.

Notice one item on this list that drains you that you can shift or do differently, she says. Then look at the list of things that gives you energy and intentionally add back in something that gives you energy — even if it’s for just five minutes.

“This is not about trying to fix everything,” she explains. “It’s not even about trying to fix stuff overnight. This exercise is just about noticing what’s going on beneath the surface, giving yourself permission to make some small shifts here. Control what you can control.”

Four mindset shifts to keep in mind:

You’re not lazy or failing.
You’re likely mentally, physically, and emotionally maxed out.
Focus on awareness and small, intentional changes.
Remember, the goal is not to fix everything overnight, but to start noticing and making small, manageable changes.

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Emergency Farm Tips You Never Knew, From a Level One Trauma Nurse

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 14:37:53 GMT

Living and working on a farm brings a unique blend of beauty and danger. As both an ER nurse and a dairy farmer’s wife, Katie Hammock has witnessed the stark realities of what can happen when farm accidents occur. The tight-knit agricultural community feels every tragedy deeply, and with the right tools and training, some of these outcomes could be different, she says. This realization led her to a mission to educate, equip and empower farm families and agriculture businesses to prioritize safety and be ready before disaster strikes.

A Blend of Nursing and Farming
Hammock didn’t grow up on a farm. Instead, she was raised in the suburbs of Ottawa, Canada, with family ties to dairy farming in Pennsylvania and New York, which sparked her passion for agriculture. Eventually, she found herself in Southern Virginia for college, where she met her husband, a third-generation dairy farmer. Today, her husband and his family milk 900 cows and farm 1,000 acres while she continues to work as an ER nurse in one of Virginia’s Level 1 trauma centers. This unique combination of experiences fuels her drive to advocate for farm safety.

“I’ve spent my career as an ER nurse, treating the worst of the worst — life-threatening injuries, trauma cases and far too many farm accidents,” she says. “After seeing too many preventable tragedies and realizing there wasn’t a farm emergency kit that met our needs, I decided to do something about it. I created my own. And from there, my mission grew — to educate, equip and empower farm families and agriculture businesses to be ready before disaster strikes.”

Building the Ultimate Farm First Aid Kit
Farm accidents are often sudden and severe, and emergency response times in rural areas can be delayed. One lifesaving tool Hammock advocates for is the tourniquet, which can stop critical bleeding in case of severe injuries. It’s inexpensive, easily applicable, and can be critical in the precious minutes before professional help arrives. Having tourniquets and other emergency medical supplies readily available can mean the difference between life and death.

“If it’s a serious enough accident, it can take fewer than five minutes to bleed out,” Hammock says, underscoring the importance of every farm having a first aid kit that incorporates essential items such as:
1. Tourniquet: Stops critical bleeding.
2. Quick Clot: Clots blood rapidly in areas where a tourniquet can’t be applied.
3. Coban: Maintains pressure on injuries. Similar to vet wrap.
4. Whistle: Helps call for help when phone service is unavailable.
5. CPR Mask: Facilitates safe CPR in case of medical emergencies.

Common Farm Injuries and the Need for Safety Protocols
Farm work involves many hazards that can lead to injuries, such as tractor rollovers, chainsaw accidents and animal-related injuries. While safety protocols and slowing down can prevent some accidents, awareness and preparation for when accidents occur are equally crucial. It’s essential not to become complacent with routine tasks and always maintain vigilance.

Encouraging a Preparedness Mindset
When Hammock speaks to farm communities, the feedback is overwhelmingly appreciative. Many people haven’t considered farm safety from the perspective of an ER nurse who sees the aftermath of these accidents. Emphasizing preparedness, having a farm emergency kit and maintaining open communication about farm safety rules are vital steps.

“The difference between an accident and a tragedy is truly milliseconds,” she says, acknowledging that injuries happen regardless of how careful someone is. “So being prepared for when those accidents happen is very important.”

Safety and Boundaries for Children on Farms
Children’s safety on farms is a particularly sensitive and crucial topic. Each family must establish non-negotiable rules to prevent tragedies. On Hammock’s farm, for instance, their 2-year-old son has strict boundaries regarding riding on open cab tractors and lawnmowers. Such rules are grounded in the firsthand knowledge of what can go wrong.

While prevention remains the best strategy, being prepared for accidents is vital. Hammock urges all farm families and workers to invest in the knowledge, tools and protocols necessary for farm safety. Understanding the possible injuries and having a response plan can ultimately save lives. For resources like a free farm address organizer, visit: thedairywife.com .

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It's Not About You: A Different Approach to Advocating for the Beef Industry

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 19:02:36 GMT

Coming from outside of agriculture offers Colorado rancher Cassidy Johnston a unique perspective of the beef industry and how ranchers can better interact with the general public to curb misinformation about raising cattle.

“I believe we can be a lot more impactful with how we communicate in agriculture,” she says.

As an outsider who has been fully immersed in the beef industry for the past 15 years, Johnston bridges the gap between the ranch and the table and encourages others to do the same.

“We often do not explain ourselves very well or at all,” she observes having been an outsider. “And a lot of the training or conversations about how we communicate, I don’t think is super effective.”

Johnston shares some tough love with the ranching community because she loves the industry and wants it to do better.

Johnston consults for ag tech companies about the basics of the American beef industry, how to communicate with their consumers and how to hire sales teams to communicate with ranchers. In addition, she her husband, Bert, have plans to launch a ranch management consulting business.

(Provided by Cassidy Johnston)

City Gone Country

Growing up in the suburbs of Denver, Johnston’s only ties to agriculture as a child were going to her godmother’s neighbor’s ranch in Aspen to ride horses. She was going to school in Boulder pursuing a degree in environmental studies when a business research development project led her to the National Western Stock Show and inspired her to think about ranching.

“We were doing an economic impact survey about the Stock Show on Denver and the surrounding area,” Johnston says. “While I was there, there were horses, and I wondered if there was an honor thesis topic that would allow me to be around horses. I decided on ranching.”

That led her to the Agricultural Research, Development and Education Center (ARDEC) at Colorado State University. She also spent a summer working as a ranch hand and beginning to experience firsthand what it was like to take care of cattle and land. She also met her husband, Bert. The couple has worked for both commercial and seedstock operations, including the Silver Spur and Sitz Angus.

Today, they continue ranching and raising three boys on Stirrup Ranch, a large cow-calf operation outside Canon City, where Bert is the manager. Johnston also spends her time advocating for the beef industry through speaking, consulting and social media engagement.

Johnston is raising the next generation. Her boys are experiencing ranch life first hand.

(Provided by Cassidy Johnston)

“I try to help people understand where their hands are most useful and where they can be the most helpful without having to do what everyone else is doing,” she says.

Johnston admits she notices problems, yet it’s more important to her to find solutions because “no one is coming to save us.”

“We really like to center ourselves in agriculture and make ourselves the heroes of our own story,” she says. “We are selling something, whether it’s actual food that we grow, or it’s our business. We want people to like us. We want people to trust us, and we don’t do that when all we do is talk about ourselves.”

Building Relationships

She encourages ranchers to consider the spheres of influence they already have.

“Who do you come into contact with? Where is your impact?” she asks. “For some people, they could be super involved in their local cattlemen group. If you’re involved, it’s your job to make sure to outreach and recruit younger members.”

While some may enjoy engaging with consumers online or giving tours, others would prefer to use their experience and capital to help younger families get started. There are a lot of different ways to impact the industry.

“People don’t know what they don’t know; they are having to wade through an enormous quantity of misinformation on the internet,” Johnston says. She suggests getting curious about what consumers know, ask them questions and start building relationships. It becomes easier to share about agriculture and ranching once you have built rapport.

(Provided by Cassidy Johnston)

“I want ranchers to feel empowered to do what they do best,” she says. “People should ask themselves, ‘what are my gifts? where do my hands go and what is one way that I can help?’”

She points out not everyone is going to want interns on their ranch, but maybe they are going to be active on Capitol Hill. Some might hate public speaking, but enjoy organizing events, working in the background or fundraising. Others could be involved in local cattlemen’s groups and end up serving at the state level.

“Everybody’s different, but I think people assume that other people are going to step up,” she says. “No one else is coming to save us so we don’t have an option to not be involved somehow.”

Johnston’s passion for the industry fuels her choice to be involved.

“I get a lot of grief for being a first-generation producer,” Johnston says. “Even though I don’t own anything, I choose this. I don’t have to do this. I have no family operation. Neither does my husband. We choose it every day. We choose to live here and do what we do.”

Johnston also appeared on the Top Producer podcast to visit more about her beef industry experience, looking at the quality in the industry, trends she sees, and the challenges of working on a large cattle operation.

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The 20 Embarrassing Problems that Make Your Farm Truck Unique

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 15:41:34 GMT

Every farm’s got one — the truck that’s seen better days but still gets the job done. You might be a little ashamed to drive it to town. Or maybe you brag about its quirks like badges of honor. Either way, it adds personality to your operation and it’s here to stay.

But these old farm trucks often come with their fair share of problems. They’ve been overloaded, under-maintained and patched together more times than you can count. Still, they refuse to quit. Here’s a list of the most common, cringeworthy problems that make your farm truck impossible to mistake and impossible to replace:

The passenger side door only opens from the inside – It’s not a defect; it’s a security system. Want in? Crawl through the driver’s side like the rest of us.
Something is always rattling – You’re pretty sure it’s either a lost socket wrench or that missing hitch pin, but it might also be a loose belt. Either way, you just keep driving.
The gas gauge hasn’t moved since 2019 – You fill it up every few days and drive on faith.
AC? More like open all the windows and drive faster – Who needs climate control when you’ve got 65 mph wind and a cracked window that whistles like a tea kettle?
The tailgate is held on with baling twine and a prayer – Engineered with redneck ingenuity and a touch of desperation. Don’t knock it — she still hauls.
Every light on the dash is on. Every. Single. One. – It’s like Christmas year round. You’d be more concerned if one of the lights actually turned off.
The radio only picks up one station – You don’t like listening to hard rock at five in the morning, but you don’t really get a choice.
The floor mats are actually feed sacks – Waterproof. Disposable. Available in bulk. Why waste your money on something that’s going to get dirty anyway.
It leaks something, but you’re not sure what – Transmission fluid? Hydraulic oil? The mystery deepens.
It smells different depending on the season – Spring = Dirt, Summer = Sweat, Fall = Silage, Winter = Mice
The air vents blow more hay chaff than air – It’s like a mini leaf blower for your eyeballs.
It won’t shift into reverse without a solid thunk – It makes a noise that sounds like part transmission issue, part truck protest.
It still has a cassette player – This isn’t a problem, it just adds character. But you are getting sick of having to explain what a cassette player is to your kids.
You have to slam the hood three times for it to latch – It’s a workout and a reminder that even the simplest things on this truck have an attitude.
There’s a permanent dent shaped exactly like a gate – You swore you checked twice before backing up. The dent is a subtle reminder that you didn’t.
There’s more rust than paint – “Old blue” has slowly transitioned to “Old red” over the years, but she’s still runnin’!
It’s part toolbox, part landfill – The cab is 40% tools, 40% empty water bottles and 20% trash.
It refuses to die, even though it should have years ago – Every time you think it’s finally reached it’s end, it fires up one more time.

Sure, your old farm truck isn’t the prettiest rig on the farm, and it certainly isn’t the quietest, cleanest or most functional. But it always shows up, always starts (eventually), and somehow always gets the job done.

You might not take it to a dealership anytime soon, but you’d take it to the field any day. It’s more than just a truck, it’s a sidekick, a mobile command center and a rolling scrapbook of everyday life on the farm.

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Questions to Ask Yourself When it Comes to Evaluating Mental Well-Being

Thu, 29 May 2025 17:44:22 GMT

Avoiding self-judgment, recognizing individual differences, focusing on personal needs and being proactive about mental health management are important for the agriculture industry to continue making progress in addressing well being and health.

Ted Matthews, director of Minnesota Rural Mental Health , has been helping farmers and farm families for more than 30 years. As a recent guest on “AgriTalk,” Matthews shared that when it comes to mental health people need to realize everyone is different, their needs are different and how they take care of their mental health will look different. The importance is understanding what that looks like for each individual.

“Because we are all different, we have to look at how we handle things personally, and not what we should do based on what other people do,” Matthews says. “We need to focus on what our mind needs, and then, as a family member, what are the family members’ needs, not what they should be. I think that’s a huge part of understanding mental health.”

Matthews says a positive step is that people are starting to understand that mental health is a huge part of physical health too.

“People need to [realize] that how you take care of yourself is by being nice to yourself,” he says. “Don’t beat yourself up for all the things you do wrong. Make sure that, if you’re going to keep score, you also score the things that you do right and the positive things you do and are.”

Based on Matthews’ advice, here are some self-evaluating questions farmers and ranchers could ask:

Self-Awareness

Am I being too judgmental toward myself?
What do I need to feel better?
Am I comparing myself unfairly to others?

Stress Management

How am I handling stress?
Are my stress levels impacting my physical health?
What specific strategies help me manage my mental well-being?

Personal Needs

What are my unique mental health needs?
How do I take care of myself differently from others?
Am I acknowledging both my challenges and my strengths?

Emotional Check-In

Am I giving myself credit for what I do right?
How am I processing difficult emotions?
Am I being kind to myself?

Support and Communication

Do I have people I can talk to about my mental health?
Am I comfortable discussing my feelings?
Would talking to a professional help me?

Check out the rest of the conversation where Matthews shares about parenting adolescents during this time of growth and development, and what people can do to navigate social media that helps protect their mental health.

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10 Tips to Make Work Less Stressful

Wed, 28 May 2025 15:51:59 GMT

Rural America is made up of hard working, strong individuals who take pride in raising food for themselves and the world. With that comes stress of managing a farm and family life. People in agriculture are not immune to mental health challenges, but may feel isolated or that they lack resources to find help, says Karen Funkenbusch, director of Missouri’s Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance program.

“That makes it especially important for people in rural communities to be aware of challenges friends, neighbors and acquaintances might experience in their everyday lives,” she says.

Sam Polly says he sees stressed-out farmers, ag industry professionals and colleagues through his work as a pesticide applicator training coordinator for University of Missouri Extension, but taking time to lend a listening ear or offer a kind word can make a difference.

During May, Mental Health Month, Polly and Funkenbusch offer 10 tips to lighten the load for others:

1. Encourage breaks. Set the example by taking a 15-minute walk occasionally. Ask a coworker to join you on a “walk-and-talk.”

2. Just say no. Set boundaries and accept that others have them also. Learn to say and accept “no.”

3. Check your judgment. “Offer a nonjudgmental listening ear,” says Polly. “Let them know they are not alone, and thank them for having the courage to face their challenges.”

4. Be the example. Encourage others to show kindness by setting an example. Lift others up by jotting a message on a sticky note and leaving it on a windshield, computer screen or mirror.

5. Accommodate. When possible, build flexibility into your work and home environment.

6. Give grace. Before your colleague even arrives at work, they may have already done a day’s work: getting kids to school, cooking breakfast, throwing in a load of laundry. They might have had to deal with forgotten homework or lunch money, a flat tire, an escaped pet. Before you add to their anxiety, pause and remember that employees are people whose days sometimes get off to a rough start. Ask yourself if their performance is helped or hurt by how you react, and give grace where you can, says Funkenbusch.

7. Put elephant on the menu. Step back and break tasks into manageable portions. Think about, “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.”

8. Start the day with gratitude. When you see a coworker struggling, suggest that they write down three things they are grateful for each morning. Make it a morning habit to think of three things or people you are grateful for while you brush your teeth.

9. Seek awe every day. Take a walk and relish in the little things like icicles on the barn, the smell of freshly cut hay, spring flowers, fall color or the bawl of a newborn calf. Polly calls it “medicine for the mind.”

10. Use available resources. Find resources in the Mental Health Toolkit, from MU Extension and the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center, at http://muext.us/MentalHealthToolkit

Your Next Read: Join the Conversation Around Mental Health: You Just Might Save a Life

Feeling Stuck? Ask Yourself These 4 Questions

Wed, 21 May 2025 19:47:26 GMT

Everybody’s been stuck at some point in their life. Maybe you’ve felt stuck about knowing how to move forward in your career. Maybe you’ve felt stuck between two people’s different opinions. Maybe you’ve felt stuck because you are trying to do too many things at once. Maybe you’ve just felt stuck because you are tired or angry or frustrated.

“What happens when you’re on fire?” asks Kacee Bohle, founder and CEO at AGRIMINDS . “You stop, drop and roll. That’s the first thing that I advise when you feel stuck. Let’s stop and see what’s actually going on, then we can go forward from there.”

Feeling Stuck is Normal
Bohle says being stuck is a normal situation people find themselves in. To get unstuck, take a 360-degree evaluation of your reality. What’s actually going on? What’s the root of why you’re feeling the way that you are right now?

Although there isn’t one magical way to get unstuck, Bohle suggests it starts by looking inside.

“It’s going to be different for everybody, and it really depends on all the other factors you have going into this as well,” she says. “For example, what season of life are you in? Who else is involved in your decision making? What can you actually do right now? What resources are available to you? It’s just not this cookie cutter answer where I can say, if you’re stuck, do this thing and you’re a feel all better. That’s just not reality.”

But everyone can sit back and evaluate what’s going on in their life a little more. Bohle uses a Japanese concept called ikigai to get her started.

Ikigai is a Japanese concept that translates to ‘a reason for being’ or ‘a reason to get up in the morning.’ Bohle says it’s essentially about finding what gives your life purpose, meaning and joy.

The four questions are simple ways to get yourself thinking, she says. They include:

Am I doing stuff that I love?
Am I doing stuff that I’m good at?
Am I able to get paid for it?
Does the world need what I have?

Finding a healthy balance leads to a more fulfilled life, Bohle says. But sometimes, it’s not possible to do any of those things.

“Sometimes we’re leaning really heavy in one of those areas and not even touching the other three,” she explains. “But if you know what your center could be – if you know what to get back to or what you’re working towards – it’s a lot easier to know what your next step is going to be.”

Action Creates Clarity
So, then what? Bohle says if you’re not sure what your next step is, just start doing something.

“If it feels aligned, keep doing more of that,” she says. “If it doesn’t, then shift gears and pivot into something else. Start dipping your toes into different areas.”

This can look like many things from making a big decision to make a career move to volunteering in your community. For others, it can look like having conversations and meeting new people to get that spark back, she says.

“Take small steps toward feeling something positive. The more that you do that, the more clarity you’re going to get,” Bohle says.

Do Something Unpredictable
It’s easy to get analysis paralysis when you feel stuck.

“I am a big thinker,” she says. “Sometimes I overthink it to death to the point I have considered every possible solution, and now I’m still stuck and don’t know what to do. You must do something, and that something is going to tell you whether this was the right move or not. But at least you’re doing the process of elimination, and realizing that’s the thing I shouldn’t be doing.”

In one of Bohle’s favorite shows, Covert Affairs, a spy shared that the best spy advice she ever received was to “be unpredictable.”

“I’ve always loved that advice,” Bohle says. “Don’t be ordinary. Change your routines. Do something people wouldn’t expect you to do. When you start doing stuff differently, it changes something inside of you.”

From taking a different road home than you typically do to ordering something new the next time you go to a restaurant, she says breaking out of routine can help you get unstuck.

Stop Spinning
Everything that we know or believe has either been caught or taught, Bohle says.

“If you think about our industry and who we’ve learned from, who we’ve been around, we’ve probably been influenced by them and conditioned by them,” she explains. “It takes a conscious effort to change what we’ve been taught.”

Bohle believes there’s been a lack of knowledge about available resources.

“When I think back to my professional career, and even my education, I don’t recall anybody sharing that with me,” she says. “It wasn’t until I sought out these resources that I came across them. I think there’s a lack of knowledge about how many resources exist to support you in whatever thing that you’re dealing with.”

She also says there’s a fear that it may not work, will hurt someone’s feelings or inconvenience others.

“It’s one of those endless cycles,” Bohle says. “We’re stuck spinning, spinning, spinning, and we don’t know how to get out of the whirlwind, which is why it’s so important to communicate with either your trusted circle or a professional. It can be as simple as raising your hand and saying, ‘I need some help.’”

Your Next Read: Don’t Ignore the Nudge: Why Listening Matters More Than You Think

Don’t Ignore the Nudge: Why Listening Matters More Than You Think

Mon, 19 May 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Have you ever found yourself unsure of how to take a step forward? I clearly remember a day last summer when I was out of time. The procrastination needed to stop. I had an hour-long talk to prepare for and my mind was blank.

Of course, I realized this was not a good situation to be in. Sure, I had my topic and key points, but in my mind, it needed a dash of heart.

Then, my phone buzzed.

At first, I ignored it. I didn’t have time to get sidetracked. But I eventually checked it. It was Maddie, a young woman and friend who shared her vulnerable and powerful story with me a few years ago about her attempts at suicide.

Start the Conversation
She texted, “I know you’ve been so busy lately and I didn’t want to bother you. But I’ve been thinking about this all day and felt urged to share this story with you.”

Maddie had been speaking on her mental health journey in front of a group of farmers in Ohio. She didn’t know anyone at the event and admittedly, was a little nervous to share her story. When she arrived, a middle-aged man in work boots and overalls came right over to her and asked if he could help carry her things.

She politely said, “Sure, I’d love that.”

They got to talking as they carried in her tubs of stuff. Eventually they got to the reason she was in Ohio to speak.

This 250-lb. farmer then teared up and said, “I know why you are here. Ma’am, I just thought you should know that you’re the reason I’m here.”

Although the details of his story are not what matters here, he was contemplating suicide when he scrolled upon Maddie’s story on Facebook .

“For whatever reason, I saw your parents’ side of the story first,” he told her. “I decided that I didn’t want my wife and children to find me like that. I didn’t want to leave them like that.”

I messaged back to my friend and said, “Wow. I don’t know what else to say.”

She simply responded that she didn’t know what to say in that moment either. So, she hugged him hard and that was it.

“It was exceptionally hard to compose myself the rest of the day,” Maddie texted back. “Thank you, Jennifer. You took a chance on me and whether you know it or not, you saved a life, too. I was just a small part in it.”

‘Fine’ Doesn’t Cut It
Can I be honest that I felt completely uncomfortable when she said this? (And even more so sharing this with you.) But in that moment, I was reminded that the very best thing we can do in this world is listen to others. We think we need to say something back or have the right words, but we don’t.

People just want to be heard. They want to be known. They may not say it out loud, but as humans, one of our greatest needs is to be understood by someone.

We all have stories that need to be shared, and we need people to step in and listen to them. Listening is one of the most powerful healing tools.

Almost a year ago, I wrote about my friend Mary and how she takes the time to truly see people . She’s a busy lady and balances several jobs and volunteer opportunities. But she is never too busy to genuinely look you in the eye and ask you how you are doing. Mary doesn’t ask in a way that gives you any option except to say how you are really doing. ‘Fine’ doesn’t cut it with her.

I hope you don’t let ‘fine’ cut it in your life, either. Pay attention to the people you run into every day and the people you love who you don’t get to see very often. I’m thankful Maddie didn’t ignore the nudge to text me that day. She gave me just the dash of heart I needed.

Your Next Read: By Her Own Hand: A Farm Girl’s Miraculous Journey from Death to Hope

May is Mental Health Awareness Month . Millions of Americans live with mental health conditions. Whether by sharing your story, spreading awareness, or advocating for change, every action helps break the stigma and build a more supportive world for all.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of a Livestock-Lovin’ Mama

Thu, 08 May 2025 20:43:43 GMT

When you find yourself in a jam, she’s the first one you call. She’s the glue of your family, the wiper of tears and the one who keeps everyone going. Her love is a love that fiercely protects, wisely counsels and lasts forever. From fixing your boo-boos to reminding you of your worth, there’s nothing like the love of a mother.

But enter in the ‘livestock’ mom and you get just a little more. She’s not afraid to make you work because she knows the hard work and extra responsibility will make you more prepared for life. Her sensitivity and perspective extend beyond others because she knows the heartaches that only livestock production can provide. She knows just when to celebrate the wins and when to push you just a little more.

Here’s a look at six moms through the eyes of their sons and daughters. They share how their moms helped inspire a life-changing love for agriculture and livestock.

Jodi Sterle is mother to two and undergraduate teaching coordinator and professor of animal science at Iowa State University.

(Sterle Family)

Jodi Sterle
By Jake Sterle, her son
Growing up on a family farm, my passion for animal agriculture developed naturally at a young age. But the official beginning came when my parents decided to get a few pigs for my brother Jackson and me to show at the 2005 National Junior Swine Association (NJSA) Summer Type Conference in Louisville, Ky. At the time, Mom was serving on the NJSA Youth Advisory Board, and one of her responsibilities was to attend the Summer Type Conference. Since she was going anyway, she figured why not bring the family and a few pigs? This was the foundation for my passion for the swine industry. Fast forward 20 years. Both Jackson and I are still actively involved in the industry. Jackson is beginning a master’s program at Iowa State University in swine production data management, and I continue to remain active in my role at NPPC. Our mom has supported and encouraged us every step of the way and I truly believe there’s no better industry my parents could have raised us in.

For as long as I can remember, she has gone above and beyond. She continues to serve and give back her time on advisory boards, county fair boards, and even serving as the 4-H swine show superintendent at the Iowa State Fair. She comes from a rich pedigree of servant leaders, and that mindset has been instilled into me. Service can be demanding and often thankless, but, at the end of the day, service is all about one life positively impacting another, and this, my mother is no stranger to.

Jake Sterle serves as director of industry resource development for the National Pork Producers Council.

Kim Caldwell is mother to three, wife to Todd, and owner of The LulaBarn.

(Caldwell Family)

Kim Caldwell
By Maddison Caldwell, her daughter
My mom grew up on a row crop operation and showed Angus cattle, so agriculture was part of her DNA. But she never forced it on us. Instead, she gave us the tools and space to figure out what we loved, and it just so happened that agriculture kept showing up in the most meaningful ways. I don’t think that was by accident. My parents’ love story was rooted in agriculture—they met through the livestock industry and built a life around it. They never had to tell us to pursue this industry; they showed us what it meant to live and love in it. Watching them pour their hearts into something bigger than themselves, something that brought people together — that’s what made us fall in love with agriculture.

My mom has truly done it all — not in terms of careers, but in the number of lives she’s touched. She started as a NICU nurse, taking care of babies every day — some of whom she held as they took their final breaths, all while quietly walking through her own journey with infertility. Today, she does something completely different. She runs The LulaBarn, selling clothing out of a machine shed in our backyard — and she’s one of the top five sellers in her company nationwide. That might sound like a huge shift, but the heart of it is the same: she continues to serve, to care, to bring joy to others in her own unique way. No matter what chapter she’s in, my mom shows up for people, and that’s what makes her unforgettable.

Maddie Caldwell is the Inside Sales Team lead for Compeer Financial.

Dorthy Jean Stateler was mother to two and wife to Merrill.

(Stateler Family)

Dorthy Jean Stateler
By Duane Stateler, her son
When I was about 5 years old, we had an International 300 utility tractor that I could drive. Mom could not find me one day and when she came looking, she found me behind the barn. I had hooked up an old three-bottom plow with a rope trip behind the tractor to help dad plow. But I couldn’t figure out how to trip the rope because it was too short for me to reach. She went and got a blanket, put it on the toolbox behind the seat and told me, ‘Let’s go find your dad in the field.’ When we got back to the lane, we pulled over to where dad was and he got off the tractor and exclaimed “What are you two doing? That hasn’t been used in years. Mom replied ‘Now Merrill, I will pull the rope at the end of the field if you help set the plow.’ Dad’s irritation turned into a smile and mom rode back there for two hours as we helped Dad finish the field. Need I say any more?

My mom touched so many individuals and families in our community through her music. She was an organist at church since high school. I have no idea how many weddings and funerals she played for over her 70 years of playing. I am frequently reminded by community members thanking me for mom’s contribution to their memories.

Duane Stateler is an Ohio pig farmer and president of the National Pork Producers Council.

Mary Bloomberg is mother to three and an ICU nurse.

(Bloomberg Family)

Mary Bloomberg
By Blake Bloomberg, her son
Mom instilled in her children the values of responsibility, attention to detail and resilience – traits essential in both medicine and livestock work. But beyond that, she encouraged our early curiosity by bringing us to the barn before or after shifts, supporting 4-H or FFA involvement, and simply treating our passion like it mattered. She never said no!

She is extremely resilient and does not know a stranger. She is wonderful with people and leaves a lasting impact on all those that come in contact with her. She has dealt with a lot over the last three years since dad’s tragic accident, but I am proud of her resiliency and of being her son.

Blake Bloomberg is a professor at Black Hawk College – East Campus.

Hannah Miller is a senior at Prairie Central High School in Illinois.

(Miller Family)

Tammy Miller
By Hannah Miller, her daughter
From the second I was born, my mom has surrounded me with the agricultural world. As a sixth- generation purebred swine producer, my mom helped me grow my love for the industry. I remember some of the first times I started helping her in the farrowing house. That’s where I truly started growing a love for production agriculture. She is always the first person I know to advocate and use her voice to positively promote agriculture. She utilizes every opportunity to educate others about agriculture and I aspire to do the same.

I wish people knew how hard she works and how much time she puts into things while still having a servant’s heart and being there for others. In my life, I truly hope I can be half the woman that my mom is. She is constantly working and getting things done for her jobs as well as our family while still helping me with anything I ask for and having time to help others.

Hannah Miller is a senior at Prairie Central High School in Illinois.

Jeantee Keppy is mother to two, wife to Loren, friend to many and most importantly MiMi to her grandkids.

(Keppy Family)

Jeantee Keppy
By Kaylee Keppy-McDonnell, her daughter
For someone that moved to a farm in eastern Iowa after getting married and grew up a city girl, I can only imagine the adjustment. I’m thankful my mom is a strong woman who has encouraged us all to embrace the farm. She has always allowed my dad to dig deep into his farm roots and has stood right by his side in every new ag adventure they get into. From pork producers’ meetings to running meals to the field, she has certainly embraced the lifestyle that ag brings. I love how she has always supported our love showing and judging livestock in the ways she knew she could help, like collecting ribbons, taking pictures, ironing clothes, having food prepped and cheering us on from the sidelines. You know, the things behind the scene you don’t really take time to appreciate until you’re a parent yourself!

She’s seriously the best cook around, you think you don’t have any food in the house and the next thing you know you have the best meal you’ve ever had and she made something out of nothing. To know Tee Keppy is to love her, her genuine heart makes her one of the good ones. And we still don’t know how she ages backwards but we love the fact she is ours.

Kaylee Keppy-McDonnell is director of retail business at United Animal Health.

Your Next Read: What Makes a Good Mom?

Inaugural Greg Henderson Excellence in Agricultural Journalism Award

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 23:25:05 GMT

In honor of the former Drovers editor, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) created the Greg Henderson Memorial Excellence in Agricultural Journalism Award, which was presented at the 2025 CattleCon in San Antonio.

“This award recognizes agricultural journalists who exemplify the values Greg Henderson championed throughout his career,” says John Robinson, NCBA Senior Vice President of Membership, Communications and Events. “Greg was known for his courage in addressing challenging industry issues, his unwavering commitment to fairness, accuracy, and honesty, and his advocacy for positive change in agriculture. He built deep personal connections to the agricultural community, earning the respect of farmers, ranchers, and fellow media professionals alike. This award celebrates those who embody these principles and carry forward his legacy of impactful journalism in service to agriculture.”

(Maggie Malson)

Ron Hays, Oklahoma Farm Report, received the inaugural award. The selection committee had this to share about Hays:

With a career spanning more than four decades, Ron has become a trusted voice for producers, known for his ability to deliver accurate, timely, and insightful information on critical issues affecting the cattle and beef industry. His dedication to fostering understanding, advocating for agriculture, and maintaining a deep connection to the community he serves reflects the very essence of this award. Ron’s work has earned him the respect and admiration of farmers, ranchers and colleagues alike, making him a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious honor.

“I was surprised but incredibly honored when I learned that I had been selected for the inaugural Greg Henderson Excellence in Ag Media Award,” Hays says. “Over the years, it had always been a special treat to catch up with Greg at major beef cattle industry events and get his take on some of the big issues impacting the beef cattle industry.”

Hays remembers several conversations with Henderson in recent years.

“To realize, with his passing, that I was selected to be given the award that bears his name — and to be the first one to receive it — it’s one of the highest honors in my ag journalism career,” he says.

Even after 50 years, Hays says he still enjoys covering farmers and ranchers.

“I still am thrilled to be a farm broadcaster and ag journalist,” he says. “One reason is the incredible variety of stories and meetings and issues that make almost every single day a new experience. It challenges me to understand the story and the background of it to best explain it to those who listen and read our information.”

The second reason — the people.

“There are so many wonderful folks I have met and have gotten to know, and many have become lifelong friends as well,” Hays adds. “Some are colleagues in the trade media world, some are the experts we have interviewed many many times, and some are the farmers and ranchers who are so very very good at their jobs.”

Learning Hard Work on the Farm Leads Dan May to A Lifetime in the Cattle Business

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

Growing up on a farm in Stratton, Colo., Dan May learned the value of hard work at a young age, milking cows, feeding cattle, and farming.

After graduating from Colorado State University with a degree in Farm & Ranch Management and a minor in Economics, he became a commodity broker, working for Seckler Cattle Company (in partnership with Louis Dreyfus Corporation) as the Head of Cattle Procurement and Commodity Trading, and as Head of Cattle Operations for Foxley Cattle Co.

“I wanted to be a good trader, whether it was cash or futures, and that’s where my concentration was,” May says. “As we made money trading, we acquired more land, more assets, and it just grew over time. I was also fortunate enough to work for Bill Foxley who helped me in so many ways. He was the greatest person I ever worked for.”

May says the market has a lot of different dynamics. He remembers having individual brokers in the pits, but now he trades against hedge funds and algorithms.

“That was a big change for me, going from the personal relationship as a floor broker,” he says.

Through the years, Dan has worked with his brothers, Jim, Tom and Steve, to scale their small family farm and 2,500 head feedlot into numerous farming, feedyard and ranching operations in Colorado, Nebraska, and Nevada. They feed 150,000-180,000 cattle among 4M Feeders, Herd Co and Magnum Feedyard. The family also farms 35,000 acres of grain and forage.

With almost 95% of the cattle in their yards being company owned cattle, the family purchased working ranches in Colorado and Nevada to create a pipeline to keep the pens full. They run about 10,000 mother cows.

“We were purchasing 3,000-4,000 cattle a week for the yards, so this gives us an advantage to have a consistent supply of cattle,” May says.

While many challenges arise, May notes packing house closures and slowdowns during COVID, and labor have been the biggest ones.

“Labor is definitely a challenge,” he says. “We have very close personal relationships with our employees, and we work closely with our management team to get the job done as well as possible.”

May says building a great team has been one of the most helpful improvements to the business.

“We have people like Case Gabel and Chad Mathews working for us, who I would put up against anyone in the business,” he says. “We also have many key family members in our operations. My brothers Jim, Tom, Steve and I started this a long time ago and we are pleased to have the next generation involved now. My sons Zach and Josh work in our Littleton office every day with me. My wife Becky is also in our office and has been by my side through the best and the worst times. We would not be here without her. My nephews, Matt, Todd, Kyle and Phil are also involved in various capacities in our industry and operations.”

May says they are also blessed to have the Gabels, Steve, Audrey, Case and Christie as partners in Magnum Feedyard.

“Their passion for the business in unrivaled and I could not ask for a better family to partner with,” he adds.

The cattle business isn’t for the faint of heart and May offers this advice to others.

“If you are not passionate about it, don’t do it,” he says. “You must be passionate about it, and you have to love the business. Otherwise, nobody wants to work that hard.”

While he acknowledges the hard work, May has gained much satisfaction from cattle business.

“I think it’s the satisfaction that every day I’m doing and enjoying what I do and am making a living at it,” he says.

May markets more than 300,000 head of beef cattle yearly and is active in commodity trading. He and his wife Becky have been married for 37 years. They have three children, Zach, Alyssa and Josh and nine grandchildren.

“The cattle business has given me a good life and for that and my Catholic faith, I am thankful,” May says.

Your next read: Grit and Guts: Kansas Cattle Feeder Joe Morgan Built a Successful Business Through Strong Relationships

How Kansas Cattle Feeder Joe Morgan Shaped a Remarkable Story of Success Built on Strong Relationships

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 19:02:29 GMT

Growing up in agriculture, Joe Morgan developed an interest in cattle feeding when visiting an uncle who fed cattle in Texas. He even started feeding some cattle when he was still in high school. After graduating from lowa State University in 1973 with a degree in Animal Science, Morgan began farming, then the opportunity to manage a feedyard east of Omaha came in 1983. In 1985 he moved to Garden City, Kan., to manage Poky Feeders, growing Poky from its original capacity of 17,000 head to the current 105,000. Poky also partners on leased feedyards in Kansas and Nebraska and has extensive ranch holdings.

“I fed cattle as a farmer in Iowa, and my family had been in in the cattle business for a long time,” Morgan says. “I was always fascinated with the cattle market and the cattle industry, so when the opportunity came up for me to manage a yard, I took that avenue.”

Morgan says the concentration of the industry both on the packing side and feedyard sector has been the biggest changes he’s seen in his years in the business.

“Our customers have grown their businesses too,” he adds. “When we started, we had a lot of customers that had cattle, and today, those our customers handle a lot more cattle also.”

Poky Feeders averages about 95% customer cattle and 5% company-owned cattle.

“We’ve been really blessed,” Morgan says. “We have a large customer base that has grown through the years. We’ve got a great customer base with some that are third generation family customers.”

One of the largest challenges is labor, which Morgan points out everybody faces.

“I think more on the other side of the coin is we have strived really hard to help our customers be profitable and stay in the business, and that’s what’s allowed us to have the immense growth that we’ve had,” he says.

Making yard improvements and capital investments also help Poky Feeders be competitive.

“We’ve added on new facilities several times, including a brand-new mill in recent years,” Morgan says. “It’s a state-of-the art mill with lots of technology and computer systems. We’re always trying to look at a better way to feed the cattle, at a more profitable deal for our customers, and less cost to us.”

Joe is a long-time member of the Kansas Livestock Association and NCBA, serving on several committees over the years.

Morgan says it’s important to be involved in cattle organizations.

“These organizations have relationships with members of Congress, and keep the industry abreast of all the laws and regulations with EPA and help us in production agriculture,” he says. “A unified voice is way better than individuals trying to accomplish all that on our own.”

Being in the custom feeding business, Morgan is a big believer in customer service.

“If you help your customer make money, he’ll be your customer for a long time,” is advice he offers others. “That’s one of the things I have preached in my organization with my management people for years. At every meeting we have, we discuss how we’re going to help these guys make money, and if they make money, then we’re going to be successful.”

Morgan encourages young producers to find mentors and peers they can relate to and respect.

“Mentors can help them with their career and their own personal lives and make it a lot more enjoyable life,” Morgan says.

Watching the growth of Poky has been rewarding for Morgan.

“When I came in 1985 we had capacity for 17,000 and today we’re up 105,000,” Morgan says. “We’ve also diversified into other businesses.”

Morgan was instrumental in starting US Premium Beef and has served on the USPB board since 2007, currently serving as Vice Chairman.

In the late 1990s, Poky diversified into the pork business, with a sow unit on site and production in lowa and Minnesota. Poky has also diversified into long-term health care and memory facilities across the Midwest and other business interests.

While Morgan currently serves as CEO of Poky, and his son, Grant, manages the company.

“It’s definitely rewarding to have family be able to be involved for another generation,” Morgan adds.

Heartwarming Stories of 2024

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 13:46:00 GMT

From wildfires to hurricanes, there were no shortage of natural disasters for cattle producers to contend with, but many times ranchers stepped in to help other ranchers. Despite hard times, we can always look around and find some good in the world. We’ve rounded up several stories that show the resilience and good nature of those in the cattle industry.

Hurricane Helene Wreaks Havoc for Cattle Producers in the Southeast

Mississippi Sale Barn Raises $33,000 for Hurricane Helene Relief

Drone Rescue as Farmers Find Helene Victims and Deliver Supplies

Hay Donated by Illinois Farmer Makes its Way to North Carolina

ONEOK Foundation Donates $100,000 to Wildfire Disaster Relief Program

A Record-Breaking Iowa Governor’s Charity Steer Show

American Royal Association Receives Grant From Bayer Fund

Dealing With Wildfires One Day At a Time

Video Royale Annual Sale and Wildfire Benefit

Your next read: Father-Son Camp Soars to 30 Years of Success on Illinois Farm

The Value of Networking

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Networking can be defined as the practice of building relationships and exchanging information with others to create mutually beneficial connections. I recognized the value of networking at a young age and have tried to instill that understanding in my children as well.

Many have reminded me that who you know can get you in the door, and what you know will keep you there. I have seen evidence of this in my career.

Thank you, 4-H
I credit much of this skill of networking to my years in 4-H and being on our county horse judging team. Our coach would take us across my home state of Kansas to compete, and we would travel to national contests in Texas and Oklahoma. I was building relationships with my peers and adults within the industry.

My first college adviser was one of those people I met while being on the judging team. Decades later in Idaho, I was having my horse shod and the farrier was good friends with that adviser when they lived in Manhattan. Talk about a small world. Making connections like this happens a lot within the agriculture industry.

It goes both ways
While I have benefited from building relationships, I also want to be able to reciprocate. As I’ve gotten older and further in my career, I find it just as satisfying to reach into my network and share that knowledge with others. It’s gratifying to see someone with a need and be able to guide them to a resource. Recently, I saw an announcement for contract video work and reached out to someone whose work I follow and admire. I thought he would be a good fit for the position and sent him the notice.

The road to success
It’s the ability to introduce yourself and meet other people and their willingness to build those relationships as well that keep the world moving forward in a positive direction.

None of us operate in this industry as an island, and learning how to collaborate, communicate and exchange ideas respectfully are the skills needed to maintain good relationships that lead to success for all of us.

As you look to the final weeks of the year and into 2025, think about your personal and professional network. How can you use it to meet your individual goals, and how can you be a relationship builder for others?

Your next read: Finding Peace: Managing Mental Health During the Holiday Season

An 11-Year Old's Idea Sparked An Idea That's Grown Into an Annual Toy Drive Giving Out 13,000 Toys Each Year

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 15:53:20 GMT

The season of giving for Reed Marcum doesn’t just happen during Christmas. For this 19-year, the season of giving is year-round.

“I came up with the idea back in 2016 when I realized that I wanted to help put another toy under someone’s tree that year,” says Marcum, who’s now a Pittsburg County, Oklahoma 4-H Ambassador.

At just 11 years-old, this 4-H member had an idea: Collect toys and give them out to children in his local community.

“He came home one day, he talked to me and his stepfather, and he said, ‘Mom, I want to help some kiddos in my class for Christmas,” remembers Angie Miller, Reed’s mother. “I said, ‘OK, what can we do?’ I told him he could do a little work, and he was like, ‘No, I want to give out toys.”

Reed Marcum at 11-Years-Old

(Angie Miller)

Started Out As a Small Idea
That first year, Reed’s small idea turned into a huge success, giving out around 5,000 toys at his stepfather’s law office. Little did this family know that was just the start of something grand.

“It was something we didn’t expect to do, especially have that much success and community reaction. They really loved it. We did not expect that,” Reed says.

J Michael Miller Toy Drive
What’s called the J Michael Miller Toy Drive has grown each year, even during COVID.

“What happened was COVID hit, and we had told Reed that it just can’t happen that year. And he said, ‘It can happen, Mom,’” Angie says.

And it did. With the help of the community, Reed moved the toy drive to Ragan’s Auto, a decision that helped this drive grow even more.

“He spoke with Mr. Ragan, and he told Reed we can do this. They moved all their cars out by noon that day. We moved in around 1:00, and we would set up all night long, and then we open the doors, they would start driving through,” Angie says.

The annual J. Michael Miller Toy Drive gave out 13,000 toys this year.

(SUNUP)

Within a couple years, they even outgrew that space. Last year, Reed moved his toy drive again, this time, to the McAlester Expo Center.

“We are orchestrating with the local Expo Center here in McAlester for people to come, and it’s just an amazing venue for what we’re doing here. And it’s an amazing process that we have to set up and do,” Reed says.

Biggest Toy Giveaway Yet
On Dec. 7,2024, Reed had his biggest giveaway yet.

“We collected a ton, but we were able to give out around 13,000 this year, that day,” Reed says.

What started as one small idea has brought generosity through toys that touched 13,000 lives this year alone.

“It’s a year-long process,” Angie says. “The entire year we’re looking for toys, collecting them and getting donations from people. But when the day gets near and close, it really starts to ramp up.”

Cars line up 3 to 4 miles long for the annual toy drive.

(Bryan Fuller)

Recipients Come From Surrounding States
Since 2016, this toy drive has given away more than 64,000 toys, an annual event that people wait in line for hours to receive. And as the event grows each year, lines of cars that now stretch three to four miles long, all with kids eager to receive toys that year.

“I was working the line this year, and we did see license plates from Texas and Arkansas. That’s normal,” says Greg Owen, Pittsburg County, Oklahoma 4-H educator. “I would ask the people in the line, ‘What was the experience like?’ And this year, I heard the comment ‘It was literally perfect.’”

Vital Volunteers
But for Reed, this wouldn’t be possible without volunteers, all 100 of them.

“They can help us move the toys from point A to point B when we’re holding them or in help, give the toys, help, walk the line, be dressed up in costumes to help entertain the kids, give out small items that go through the lines. The kids aren’t just sitting there bored,” Reed says.

Loss Turned Into Love
Reed’s toy drive has become a beloved experience attracting thousands of people from miles away. But this kid who has brought so much joy to others has also seen heartache along the way.

“He had the most difficult year of his life his junior year,” Angie says. “We were moving to Ragan’s that year, and on July 28, he lost his grandmother that he was extremely close to.”

Reed’s brother, Sergeant Miles Tarron

(SUNUP)

Not even four months later, Reed suffered another devastating loss, just weeks away from his toy drive in 2021.

“We were notified by soldiers that Reed’s brother had passed in the military,” Angie says. “I talked with Reed and I told him I didn’t think we can do the toy giveaway. And he said, ‘Mom, brother would want us to do the toy giveaway, so we’re going to do the toy giveaway.’”

And he did, with an entire community rallying around Reed as a way to give back to one of their own who had done so much.

“They helped us get it over to Ragan’s. We got it all set up. And then they just helped us all the way through it,” Angie says. “After that, Reed had already created the Hudson Strong Foundation for a little boy that had cancer. And they provided some help with the costs of the storage buildings. Then after his brother passed, Reed created the Sergeant Miles Tarron Foundation, and that supports his toy giveaway, his backpack giveaway and his silent auction. His brother always had a hand in supporting him and sending money. So, now the Sergeant Miles Tarron Foundation and the Hudson Strong Foundation support those storage buildings.”

Reed has nine storage buildings, all bursting with donated toys each year. But this success is also because of one lady Reed deeply admired: his 4-H leader, Miss Donna Curry.

“After he lost his brother, June 28, 2022, he lost Miss Donna Curry, who was like a second mother to him, who got him into 4-H, and she supported this project thoroughly,” Angie says.

Today, Reed doesn’t just give away toys. Miss Donna had another idea two years before she died: to give out pajamas, socks and undergarments to those in need.

“We named it Miss Donna’s Closet. And when they drive through the toy giveaway, they get the pajamas, they get socks, they get undergarments all through the toy line. They get snacks. And so when we lost Miss Donna, Reed promised at that point that he would carry her tradition on.”

Reed is Now Inspiring Others
Reed’s heart of service is always on display, and it’s now inspiring others.

“It’s literally the goal that we try to set for our 4-H members. We hope that they’ll develop a level of mastery in their project work, and for Reed, his project has been civic engagement,” Greg says. “And when they get to that point, we’ll hope we hope that they’ll utilize that to teach and impact others to follow in their footsteps, which is exactly what Reed has done.”

“That’s the best thing with 4-H; they always want you to strive to be the best version of yourself. And that’s something this project really does every year,” Reed says. “It’s not just staying the same or leveling out each year. It’s getting bigger and better than the last.”

True Gift of Giving
Reed’s one idea in 2016 continues to spread joy year-round, as it showcases the true gift of giving.

“Little 11-year-old Reed could never see such a thing happening, especially when I was so young and couldn’t even talk to a group of ten people, let alone do something like this. I never thought it would reach this,” Reed says.

“I always share this. That came from the idea of an 11-year-old child. That shows the impact of the 4-H program. That shows the impact of a student that wants to give, that wants to make a difference and wants to make a positive impact on their community,” Greg says.

Reed Accepts Donations Year-Round
In order to make the annual toy drive possible, Reed accepts donations year-round. If you’d like to contribute to the annual toy drive or Reed’s other service projects, you can donate here .

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From the Famous SNL 'More Cowbell' Skit, to Iconic Bell in "It's a Wonderful Life,' The Magic of Bell-Making

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 15:37:26 GMT

Cici Bevin enjoys working in her family-owned business, which dates back to 1832 when her ancestors began what is Bevin Bells today.

“At one point in East Hampton, [Conn.,] we had over 20 bell manufacturers. Luckily, today we are the last one remaining,” Bevin says.

Of course, the use of bells back when the company began is much different than today.

Today, a cowbell might be a gift or a musical instrument, but back then, it was an essential part of raising livestock.

“There was a tremendous amount of safety use for bells, so sleigh bells were massive for us. We had catalogs, 20 pages long, of different cut styles and configurations of sleigh bells,” Bevin says.

Bells are still used today, though you probably never give much thought to who makes them.

“We make all of the bells for the Salvation Army across the country. Any time you see someone at a kettle ringing a bell asking for money that’s a Bevin Bell,” Bevin says.

Remember the sound that used to end stock trading in New York ? Or signal another round at a Muhammad Ali boxing match ? Those sounds are from Bevin Bells.

Of course there’s the famous bell from “Saturday Night Live,” which was a boost for business.

However, the most famous Bevin Bell is tied to “It’s a Wonderful Life,” a Christmas movie from 1946.

“The bell that rings on the tree when Clarence says, ‘Every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings,’ that’s a Bevin Bell. Exactly how that bell ended up in the movie, we’re not entirely sure,” Bevin says.

They’re sure glad the classic Christmas movie featured a bell from their factory. To this day, the movie and the sound of bells ringing signal the Christmas season is here.

The Wonderful Life bells are just one of the many holiday bells made at Bevin Bells. In fact, the company does about 60% of its business in the fourth quarter.

While many people like the jingle of bells around the holidays, one has to wonder if working in a bell factory could get a bit annoying.

“I absolutely love hearing the bells ring and I honestly never get tired of it,” Bevin says. “I have bells in my car all the time because I might be making a delivery, and I jingle everywhere I go, which brings a real smile on my face.”

From sleigh bells to the bell from “It’s a Wonderful Life,” much Christmas cheer begins at Bevin Bells in East Hampton, Conn.