Applications open for 2023 academy: The Missouri Department of Agriculture offers 30 high school students representing 4-H clubs and FFA chapters, as well as farm families, throughout Missouri the opportunity to explore careers in agriculture through the 2023 Missouri Agribusiness Academy (MAbA). MAbA is a competitive program for sophomores interested in pursuing agriculture-related degrees and careers. The students selected will participate in a yearlong program to learn about the unique opportunities for careers in the St. Louis area, volunteer at the Missouri State Fair and learn more about the agriculture industry in Jefferson City. The 2023 schedule will be finalized in the spring and will include visits with industry and agribusiness leaders, as well as tours of their facilities. For applications and guidelines and more information on the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, visit the Department online at Agriculture.Mo.Gov.
Barton County, Mo., teen selected: Andrew Shelton of Barton County, Mo., was selected to represent Missouri in April at the National 4-H Conference in Washington, D.C. As a delegate to the National 4-H Conference, he will network with youths from across the country, partake in round table discussions and prepare briefings on various topics for federal agencies. Shelton will also spend time on Capitol Hill with some of Missouri’s senators and representatives and share how 4-H has impacted their lives and the lives of many others.
Construction begins on new facility: Leaders with the University of Missouri Extension have broken ground on a livestock handling site at the research facility in Mount Vernon, Mo. The MU Extension and the University of Missouri College of Agriculture will fund the $400,000 project. Organizers say the facility will allow researchers to study cattle better and help ranchers, allowing the animals to be handled safely and humanely and keeping handlers safe.
Scholarships deadline set: The Missouri State Fair and the Youth in Agriculture Committee are accepting applications for Youth in Agriculture scholarships through Feb. 1. Applicants must be high school seniors, active members of Missouri 4-H or FFA, and have participated at least once as a 4-H or FFA exhibitor at the Missouri State Fair. Selected students must enroll (fall and/or spring semester immediately following graduation from high school) in an accredited community college, college or university. For more information and an online application, visit go.ozarksfn.com/cnx.
Birds euthanized: Nearly 9,000 laying hens in Webster County were dispatched in late November after officials confirmed a bird flu outbreak in the flock. It is the 11th case of avian influenza in Missouri this year.
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I’ve always prided myself in keeping my cattle well-fed during the winter months. I inherited that trait from my father, who was known to keep his cattle a little overfed during the worst time of the year. A neighbor once commented, “I don’t believe in reincarnation, but if it happens to be a thing, I would like to come back as one of Gene Crownover’s cows.”
Jerry Crownover farms in Lawrence County. He is a former professor of Agriculture Education at Missouri State University, and is an author and professional speaker.
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Brooke Bradford, Cheryl Kepes, Neoma Foreman, Leah Greene, Erin Harvey, Jenna Kutz, Eileen Manella, Logan Parkerson, Danae Ranck and Noralee Townsend
Dan and Shelby Wisner have multiple operations at their St. Clair County, Mo., farm. See more on page 7.
Photo by Julie Turner-Crawford
To contact Jerry, go to ozarksfn.com and click on ‘Contact Us.’
I may not feed them to that extent, but I’d like to think my cows are content. Because I’m constantly concerned that my animals are always well-nourished, I normally perform an inventory of my hay supply around the first part of February. Knowing that there is usually about 60 more days of feeding hay before green grass, I can closely estimate whether I need to reduce the amount of hay fed per day by supplementing with range cubes or, in the worst-case scenario, find a source to purchase more hay. Whichever the case may be, I consistently end the hay-feeding season with no more than 10 to 20 big bales of hay left.
During normal years, I don’t start feeding hay until mid-December unless we get caught up in an early winter snow. This year, unfortunately, has been anything but normal. The severe drought (which continues) forced me to feed quite a lot of hay, even during the months of July and August. With a little moisture in September, I was able to feed cubes a few days each week to conserve on my limited supply of hay. That reprieve didn’t last long.
I started feeding a bit of hay again during the last part of October and gradually increased the amount through the entire month of November. I changed my routine this year and performed the inventory of my hay supply on the first day of December. Unsurprisingly,
Ozarks Farm & Neighbor accepts story suggestions from readers. Story information appears as gathered from interviewees. Ozarks Farm & Neighbor assumes no responsibility for the credibility of statements made by interviewees. © Copyright Ozarks Farm & Neighbor, Inc., 2022. All rights reserved. Printed in USA.
Arrivederci, 2022! I’m glad to see you go. It’s been a bit of a rough one. The economy is in the pits, fuel prices are all over the board, supply chain issues are still ongoing, feed and fertilizer prices are up, cattle prices aren’t great, avian flu is setting records and interest rates are climbing. We can’t forget about the drought and hay prices. Personally, it’s been an up-and-down year for me as well, so I’m glad to get 2022 behind me.
Economists predict a pick-up in commodity production in the new year, but farm income is projected to fall in 2023 and 2024. The official forecast for farm income won’t come out until February, so it’s a wait-and-see game.
— Continued on Next Page
Julie Turner-Crawford is a native of Dallas County, Mo., where she grew up on her family’s farm. She is a graduate of Missouri State University. To contact Julie, call 1-866532-1960 or by email at editor@ozarksfn.com.
• 4 to 4-1/2 C all-purpose flour
• 1/4 C sugar
• 2 Tbsp mashed potato flakes
• 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
• 2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp dill weed
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 2 C water
• 4 1/2 tsp butter
• 1 C old-fashioned oats
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 3/4 C shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
TOPPING:
• 2 Tbsp fat-free milk
• 4-1/2 tsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dill weed
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 C flour, sugar, potato flakes, yeast, salt, dill and garlic powder. In a small saucepan, bring water and butter just to a boil. In a small bowl, pour boiling liquid over oats. Let stand until mixture cools to 120 to 130 degrees, stirring occasionally. Add to dry ingredients; beat just until moistened. Add egg; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a firm dough (dough will be sticky). Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6 to 8 minutes. Knead in mozzarella cheese. Place in a large bowl coated with cooking spray, turning once to coat the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 1/4 hours. Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide into 24 pieces. Shape each into a ball. Place in a 13-by-9 baking pan coated with cooking spray, brush milk over rolls. In a small bowl, combine the topping ingredients, sprinkle over tops. Cover and let rise until nearly doubled, about 45 minutes. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to a wire rack. Refrigerate leftovers.
Know a Good Recipe? Send in your favorite recipe to share with our readers. Mail them to: PO Box 1319, Lebanon, MO 65536; fax them to: 417-532-4721; or email them to: editor@ozarksfn.com
By Julie Turner-Crawford
Dan and Shelby Wisner have a diversified livestock and crop operation
In college, Dan Wisner said his professors stressed specialized production. That, however, wasn’t what the seventh-generation farmer from Osceola, Mo., had in mind.
“I think diversity is a problem solver,” Dan said. “I love diversity because you never get bored. I get tired of driving a tractor back and forth, and back and forth. With diversity, there’s something new every day. We also want to keep our kids involved. One might despise going out and plowing a field but love working with animals. You also can’t get ahead by doing what everyone else is doing. Diversity spreads your risk, and that’s what my grandpa Juanita [Wisner] always preached; don’t put your eggs all in one basket.”
The Wisners’ main operation is 150head cow/calf herd, but the family also has row cows, meat goats, a small farmto-plate pork operation, and a recently acquired haired sheep flock.
Dan and his wife Shelby own 300 acres and are part of family operations that take in another 400 acres.
The Wisner cattle are a commercial operation, with herds with Angus and Charolais influences. Additionally, a red Beefmaster bull and Limousin have become part of the breeding program.
“We’re a cow of every color,” Dan said. “My granddad, Bill Malloy, he’s always been a Charolais man, so I’m carrying on with those genetics. Then on the other side, the Wisner side, they have always been Angus, so I can’t argue either way.”
Bulls remain with the herds, which allows the Wisners to have calves at various times to market.
“I don’t mind calving out in the summer,” Dan said. “Because we’re always moving to fresh grass, we don’t have to worry about the dust.”
Calves are sold at about 750 pounds, with some heifers retained for future development. Dan said they also buy a few heifers each year. Retained females and those purchased do not go into the breeding program until they are about 18 months old, giving the future cows additional time to grow before growing a calf.
“As some elder farmers retire, I try to buy out their seedstock,” he said. “That’s how I picked up some good Limousins.”
The breed of cattle is not as important to Dan and Shelby as the quality and each animal’s ability to be productive. They prefer cattle that require few
inputs to maintain condition and raise quality calves.
“They need to survive on good grass, good hay and mineral,” Dan said.
Calves stay with their dams until they are about 7 months old. Dan said the cows began the natural weaning process by that age, so weaning tends to be less stressful. They also utilize fenceline weaning to reduce stress.
Calves are then offered grain 30 to 60 days prior to being sold. Bulls are castrated at about 600 pounds to allow for additional growth.
Dan, a loan officer at St. Clair County State Bank, did draw from his college days to make their cattle operation work with fewer inputs.
“I’m a big fan of rotational grazing; it was one of those wild ideas I picked up at college,” Dan said, adding he also attended a grazing school but modified the practices to suit his farm and farming methodology. “I would love to do some mob grazing if time would allow it. We see such huge benefits with [rotational grazing]. Rotational grazing has also helped in the handling of the cattle; I can take them anywhere. We cross paved roads, gravel roads, we lead them for 40 acres of brush because they are looking for that fresh grass.”
Shelby added the ease of handling allows their children (7-year-old Lydia, 4-year-old Truman and 1-year-old Lila) to be a part of the farming operation.
Moving cattle frequently also reduces parasites and aids in fly control because the lifecycle is broken.
“We haven’t had to worm for as long as I can remember. I don’t run my cows through the chute unless I have to. I will give calves a blackleg and tetanus; other than that, I don’t worry about vaccinations. We want our cattle to be calm and docile around the kids, so not stressing them out helps keep them calmer,” Dan said.
The family produces the hay needed for their herd, all while having stockpiled forages.
Osceola, Mo.
“All of my cows have access to grass, and grass ahead of them, but they get a little hay to save that grass better days. Until this year, we were averaging 2.5 to 2.7 bales per cow in the winter,” Dan said. “My grandpa tends to hay
Continued from Previous Page
a little more than I do; I like to stockpile a little more. “We do the best we can with our pastures and keep improving.”
They typically broadcast clovers and lespedeza in March to help replenish forages.
Because of their rotational system, Dan said forages quickly rebounded after some much-needed rain in the fall. They are adding paddocks as they can to the system, but where the paddocks are located and how big they are depends on existing pasture infrastructures, such as water supplies and fencing.
To make further use of pastures, Dan has incorporated milo.
“I’ve had some success, but timing is everything,” he said. “I can graze a pasture, then no-till it in June, and if the rains are right, you have the cool season grasses going dormant, and the sorghum is coming on. I have harvested some grain from my pastures.”
Part of the future changes to the rotational system includes following the cattle with the goats and sheep. They currently have Kiko/Spanish goats with some Boer influence. The sheep are the newest edition, with a small flock of Katahdins.
“The ragweed is going to waste out there, might as well have sheep out eating them,” Dan said. “With the goats, they will eat everything they can reach; they will eat locust sprouts, weeds, thistles. We are all about trying to make things efficient. We try not to waste a blade of grass or an ounce of sunshine.”
There are some drawbacks to sheep and goat production.
“If water will go through a fence, they can too,” Dan said. “That one strand of wire works great for the cows; it’s pop and go, but not for the goats.”
Goat kids are sold at area livestock markets, providing another income stream.
Their four-sow hog operation allows the entire family to have farm-raised pork and the opportunity to sell as few pigs to others. They farrow once a year, and the pigs are part of a shared operation with Dan’s parents, Curtis and Cindy Wisner, in nearby Vista, Mo., which is also where the sheep and goats are housed.
“When we butcher the pigs, it gets the whole family involved,” Shelby said. “It’s a multi-generational thing when we do that.”
The family’s cropping operation produces portion of the feed required for their livestock.
“We have milo and corn grown here on the farm,” Dan said. “We have to buy our soybean meal to add for protein and energy, and I mix it here for the pigs and the cattle.”
Dan said the family grows corn, wheat, oats and soybeans.
“We’re trying to get into more oats,” Dan said. “I should have a good oat crop, even if I don’t get any other crops if we go into a drought year. We do a lot of double cropping and try to do a lot of no-till. We also try a few cover crops as time allows, mostly crimson clover and rye. Ideally, with more fences, we will also be able to graze that. If I can graze off a field, plant milo, harvest the milo, then graze the cool grasses in the fall, that just doubles my income.”
In addition to feeding their livestock, the Wisner family markets a portion of their crops.
“It’s all part of maximizing efficiency,” Dan said. “When you have limited resources, and we all know what the price is for land, you have to be efficient in what you do. You are also helping the soil by diversifying. We try not to do beans, on beans, on beans.”
Additionally, soil fertility is monitored closely in all fields and pastures.
“We try to add as needed,” Dan said. “I really like using chicken litter, which can get hard to come by.”
As the family grows, so do their goals. Dan and Shelby hope to add a processing facility for beef and pork, and a mobile poultry coop with a capacity to house 5,000 birds.
Dan hopes his children will be as eager to be the next generation as he was.
“I have to give credit to my dad,” Dan said. “Everywhere he went, I went, no matter what kind of a farm job it was. He’s a full-time farmer, and I guess I’m the first one who hasn’t been a full-time farmer. Dad is where I got my love for it. I hope my kids find that passion like I did.”
Shelby, a nurse at Golden Valley Medical-Osceola and who Dan refers to as their resident veterinarian, is sure their young children will also find the passion.
“Truman will follow him anywhere,” she said.
“Lydia will be our animal person,” Dan said.
By Jenna Kutz
Lynda and Danny Medcalf of Republic, Mo., said their Fly N’ Farms it’s a typical first-generation farm, and they aren’t the typical first-generation farmers.
The Medcalfs were newly married and in their 50s when they became first-generation farmers, with a large farm left to them by their neighbor. In his later years, Ernie Rasmussen couldn’t take care of his operation like he once did, and the Medcalfs were there to help. He left Lynda and Danny a the farm, cow/calf operation, a chance to retire and a lasting legacy in their family.
for his Cessna 182 airplane. After serving in the Navy, Danny took on flying as a hobby, and he hand-built his own airplane in the hangar on their land.
“She wanted to be in the woods, I wanted a hangar and flat land for flying, which is exactly how we ended up in the Ozarks,” Danny said.
Three minutes down the road from “Medcalf Field Airport,” lived Ernie, who was around 80 at the time of their introduction. He owned 80 acres and 14 cows and needed help with tasks around the farm. The Medcalfs were eager to help.
As the years went by, the Medcalfs took
Lynda and Danny Medcalf helped out their elderly neighbor and ended up inheriting a farm.
Danny and Lynda both grew up in Southwest Missouri and met in their teen years. Both went their own ways in life, as Danny served in the Navy in the Vietnam War and Lynda raised two boys in Mount Vernon, Mo. Their paths crossed again over 30 years later, and they rekindled their relationship.
In June 1989, Danny and Lynda were married and bought their first house together down a long gravel driveway with plenty of hayfield on each side. The long stretch of field would serve as Danny’s runway
on more than just tasks around the farm; they began to help care of Ernie. They made sure he was comfortable and taken care of in his home, then helped him during his transition to assisted-living. They also took on all the responsibilities of Ernie’s farm.
“We helped with the farm for 12 years as his neighbor, and when he passed away in 2000, he gave the farm to us rather than his family,” Lynda explained.
Republic, Mo.
Like most first-generation farmers, the Medcalfs had a lot to learn.
The Martinosky family offers a mix of fun and food in Branson, Mo.
Looking for a fun, friendly, and safe environment to be yourself, meet new people, and enjoy eating some of the best barbecues in Branson? Check out Crazy Craig’s Cheeky Monkey Bar in Branson, Mo. Owned by “Crazy” Craig Martinosky Sr., and his sons “Cheeky” Craig and “Serious” Jesse Martinosky, this iconic local day and nighttime restaurant and barbecue is one of the many successful businesses of the Martinosky family. With a 4.7-star rating on Google after more than 4,000 reviews.
“We serve every demographic on earth,” Craig Sr, said. “We get families, seniors, locals, tourists, and businesspeople for lunch groups, happy hour, supper, latenight…We serve everybody. The main secret is our service. My son Craig wrote a protocol called 14 Steps of Great Client Service.
“We train our servers and bartenders
to do 14 steps, and when they do, everybody feels like locals, they feel like family. They come back. You’ll never see anybody standing around. My people are on the move.”
He added Crazy Craig’s Cheeky Monkey Bar is the only establishment in town that doesn’t need a bouncer on Friday and Saturday nights.
Crazy Craig’s Cheeky Monkey is a name that uniquely describes the creativity of the bar’s owners while also capturing the unique characters who play a part in its opening and operation. Craig Martinosky Sr., grew up a farm boy.
“I’m the generation that left the farm,” he said. “I love the farm, but I didn’t like the unpredictability of it, so that’s why I left and joined the Navy to become a computer operator.”
Since leaving the farm, Craig has experienced a life that continually earns him the title of “Crazy Craig.”
In 1974, Craig turned down a job at the White House while in the Navy. In 1982, he won the North America Putting Championship as a professional Putt-Putt player. Alongside traveling the country and playing tournaments, Craig built 12 businesses, including three painting and roofing companies, an advertising business, a retail wallpaper store, five H&R Block offices, and two bars. In 2009, he was also Andy William’s business manager in Branson. Despite his many listed, and many more unlisted, personal achievements, Craig earned the name Crazy Craig because he still to this day has never tasted a drop of alcohol, despite owning two resaturates/ bars.
Crazy Craig’s son, Craig, is referred to as “Cheeky” Craig. Incorporating his nickname into a new business idea, Cheeky Monkey as a name and theme for the business seemed to be a winner.
The Martinosky family decided adding to the name would solidify their creation with its own unique and distinguished personality within the local Branson, and now nationwide, community.
Brothers Cheeky Craig and Serious”Jess both developed and still manage the kitchen and staff of the company. Together, they have more than 35 years in restaurant and bar experience. Their kitchen offers a selection of classic barbecue dishes while also providing a unique collection of new and innovative methods of barbecue presentation. Brisket nachos, pulled pork quesadillas and rib tips bring back fans again and again.
“Barbecue is our specialty,” Cheeky Craig explained. “We brine our pork and brisket for at least two days before we smoke it. We smoke ribs, we smoke our kielbasa sausage, all smoked with cherry wood, all smoked with the two smokers out front.”
Between their unique and classic barbecue dishes, the menu also offers classics like burgers, pizzas and chicken sandwiches.
People are also excited to learn more on the Cheeky Monkey name and its history. Built on Crazy Craig’s time in the Navy, this historical-fiction comedic narrative highlights a both positive and entertaining backstory to the bar’s creation. Involving a monkey found on Craig’s naval adventures, readers are taken through a fun and imaginative adventure, appropriate for a business whose atmosphere reflects these same characteristics.
Kids love the story, too. Crazy Craig’s Cheeky Monkey is very kid-friendly. They offer free pool until 6 p.m., daily. They also have dart boards, a non-explicit juke box, Jenga boards and other games for the whole family. However, minors must stay home after 10 p.m. The Martinoskys also recently opened Crazy Craig’s Treehouse in Branson. The family took over what was the Outback Pub and turned it into their new Treehouse Bar.
“At the Treehouse, we got a chance to do a new menu. People were always asking for French fries, but we don’t have a fryer at Cheeky Monkey, Crazy Craig said. “We had a chance to offer a different selection, such as with our signature cocktails, classic drinks, hummus, naan-chos nan-bread nachos, French fries, and more,” said Cheeky Craig. “We are non-smoking at the Treehouse and have live music upstairs. What’s beautiful about it is the upstairs deck that has a tree growing in the middle of it. The whole building is orange.”
The treehouse has its own story about “Tuffy Toucan” who, Craig Sr. said, is named after [his] grandson who passed away, in homage to Tuffy.
Guests can find Crazy Craig at either of his bars greeting people as they enter the room. On Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, is right by the door of the Cheeky Monkey Bar. Later in the night, he will be over at the Treehouse.
“He’s known for his hugs,” Cheeky Craig said.
“My staff always gives us a hug when they leave work,” Crazy Craig added. “We love people here.”
By Julie Turner-Crawford
Location: Summersville, Mo.
Owners: Jerry and Judy Cooper
History: Cooper Farm Supply opened its doors in 1969, offering fertilizer. The company expanded a couple of years later and began offering livestock feed and other products.
“Back then, there weren’t any fertilizer dealers, so that’s what we started with,” Judy Cooper said.
Products and Services: Cooper Farm Supply offers a range of products, including hardware, vet supplies, seed, garden seed, farm supplies, posts, wire gates and much more. Seasonal items are also available,
For the livestock producer, Cooper Farm Supply offers feed and mineral for cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and horses. Producers can work with Cooper Farm Supply staff to formulate custom a mix to fit the needs of their herd or flock. Bulk delivery and bagged feed are available. In addition to the Cooper Farm Supply line of feeds, customers can also select items from Purina.
There are also products for dogs and cats, and Cooper Farm Supply can help hunters with food plot needs for deer.
And, of course, Cooper Farm Supply still offers fertilizer.
“We have fertilizer buggies and a custom spreader who spreads it for us,” Judy said. While Cooper Farm Supply might not be a big store, they offer many products for producers of all sizes.
“We have a lot of stuff, but we don’t have clothes and things like that,” Judy said. She also said Cooper Farm Supply has had ups and downs, but they remain a vital part of the farming community in Summersville.
“There used to be five stores here in town when we first started, and we’re the only one left,” she said. “There have been some rough days, but if you don’t have bad days, you don’t know if you have a good one.”
Business Philosophy: Judy said they would like to add new products in the future, but until then, they will keep doing what they have done for five decades at Cooper Farm Supply, which is taking care of their customers.
“If you take care of your customers, they’ll be back,” she said.
“Since this was our first time with a farm and a herd that depended on us, we went by Ernie’s example and ultimately flew by the seat of our pants,” Lynda said. “We were lucky to have learned some things from our parents and other producers we met in the area.”
Other producers in the area include members of the Greene County Cattlemen’s Association, where the Medcalfs volunteer many hours to help expand the group and raise money for agricultural-student scholarships or other farmers in need.
While they give credit to those who helped them along the way, they did a lot of hands-on work, learning how to vaccinate their herd, when to wean and how to castrate.
The first few years of owning the farm the Medcalfs worked normal 9-to-5 jobs in the city, then rushed home afterwards to work on the farm and do their chores while there was still daylight. Finally, they were able to retire and take on farming full-time.
“Even though we retired, we never really retired,” Lynda said with a laugh. “We kind of went from full-time work to full-time farming, but it is so much better. Now, we have more freedom to spend more time on the farm and on the pasture to look at our animals, which if you know me, is my favorite thing to do.”
Also, during the start of their cow/ calf operation, their six grandkids were being born and growing up, and the farm provided a perfect solution to having the freedom to spend as much time with them as possible.
“The freedom to be able to get up in the morning and make my own choices of what I want to do and when I want to do it, is the greatest feeling,” said Lynda.
For their grandkids, the farm provided so many life lessons other than just hard work and determination – it taught them about always putting family and friends first, and leaving behind a legacy of generosity and kindness, just like Ernie and the Medcalfs did for each other.
What was initially 14 cows in Rasmus-
sen’s Brangus herd is now more than 70 cows, two bulls and nearly two times the amount of acreage all because of the Medcalfs.
The original herd was Angus, but the couple transformed to Brangus after learning the breed may offer some resistance some ailments, and have few problems with pinkeye.
Danny and Lynda sell a number of calves as replacement animals, but the majority of the farm income is from the sale of feeder calves. Lynda continues to expand the herd’s genetics. All breeding is done through natural breeding program.
Farm improvements include fencing improvements to separate pastures to allow for pasture rotation.
The couple became involved in agriculture after helping Ernie, and they are now helping their new neighbors, Danielle and Josh Rogers, first-generation farmers who operate a 100-acre berry farm and you-pick business. The Medcalfs helped plant seeds, build a shop, ran the cash register, and even fed and took care of
the couples’ two young kids while Danielle and Josh worked long days.
Because of the Medcalfs help, the Rogers decided to name their driveway that shares a fence with Fly N’ Farms, “Lynda Lane.”
The Medcalfs have made an impact on the Ozarks and their family, and will leave a lasting legacy with Fly N’ Farms. “How do I even describe what the farm has brought us?” Danny said.
“The Ozarks bring me peace of mind and all the happiness in my life,” Lynda says as began to cry. “The rule of life in being close to the land is that there is nothing better – genuinely nothing better. The farm is my soul, peace of mind, sanity and so much more.”
For the future of Fly N’ Farms, the Medcalfs want to continue to watch their herd grow and their improve their Brangus bloodlines, and enjoy life on the farm.
“We moved out here to have a hanger and an airplane and ended up with a bunch of land and a big ole’ herd of cattle,” Danny said.
In Town: Kristina Van Aken is a lunch lady at Mountain Grove High School.
“I love it; I’m taking classes to be a teacher.” She is studying elementary education online through Western Governors University. She also has an interest in studying science and history. Her mother and farming partner, Paula Van Aken, is a retired teacher, having taught in Iowa. Working in the cafeteria complements Kristina’s farming interests in the products of her animals, such as eggs and goat’s milk.
In the Country: Kristina and Paula moved to Missouri from Iowa in 2016. Together they raise Nigerian Dwarf goats, among other animals, on their property, Blue Roof Farm. They began with horses, which they later sold to start their business in goats and chickens.
“I help manage the goat herd; I pretty much started it,” Kristina said. She was inspired to raise goats after viewing a group from Arizona on YouTube. She knew she didn’t want to raise meat goats and get into slaughtering. The dwarf goats were more manageable than regular-sized goats.
“I was watching all the kiddings, making sure medicine was being administered, and vet calls were being taken care of,” said Kristina.
They started with four does in 2021. “We bred them in January, and they had kids in June,” she said.
“We have 18 girls, four that we’ll keep from this year, and five boys.”
“We raise them for kids. The kids sell pretty well; a lot of people like having them for pets. They’re great for homesteads because of their small size. We have them for milk and cheese; we’re going to make ice cream.
“Goat’s milk has a really high butter fat content. I think it’s creamier than [cow’s] milk. It digests a whole lot easier. A lot of people use it for rescue animals. People with rescue foals use goat’s milk instead of powdered milk because it’s just easier on their stomach.” They also have and sell chickens and eggs. “We breed for color of egg, color of feather, personality and hardiness.”
Future Plans: The mother/daughter farming team have other aspirations for products in addition to food.
“I’m hoping one day to make soap or lotion from goat’s milk.” Kristina touted the health benefits for use on people’s skin, having already used it herself. She found goat’s milk soap to be one of the few beneficial treatments for her skin whenever she has an issue. “I’d like to be able to make my own.”
4,108 lamb carcasses traded with no trend due to confidentiality. All sheep sold per hundred weight (CWT) specified.
Lambs: Choice and Prime 2-3:
Angelo: wooled and shorn 100-150 lbs 126.00-140.00. Holland, PA: wooled and shorn 100-125 lbs 138.00195.00-200.00; 150-160 lbs 110.00-140.00.
CO: wooled and shorn 130-145 lbs 125.00150-180 lbs 110.00-159.00.
Dakota: wooled and shorn 100-150 lbs 116.00-140.00,
IA: wooled and shorn 135-150 lbs 118.00-125.00; 104.00-122.50.
MT: wooled and shorn 100-145 lbs no test. wooled and shorn 125-130 lbs no test.
Coop: wooled and shorn 148 lbs 109.00; wooled 155
Lambs: Choice and Prime 1-2:
Angelo: hair 40-60 lbs 285.00-340.00, few 340.00-348.00; 260.00-290.00, few 307.00; 70-80 lbs 221.00-270.00, 284.00-292.00; 80-90 lbs 182.00-220.00, few 250.00; 180.00-205.00. wooled and shorn 62 lbs 269.00; 190.00-197.00; 90-100 lbs 173.00-181.00.
Holland: wooled and shorn 50-60 lbs 310.00-345.00, 390.00-420.00; 60-70 lbs 230.00-265.00; 70-80 lbs 200.00-235.00, few 240.00-250.00; 80-90 lbs 205.00-245.00, 90-100 lbs 160.00-195.00, few 205.00-210.00. hair 265.00-270.00, few 290.00-350.00; 60-70 lbs 220.00285.00-300.00; 70-80 lbs 190.00-235.00, few 80-90 lbs 170.00-190.00, few 225.00-230.00; 90-100 lbs 170.00-195.00.
wooled and shorn 63 lbs 165.00; 70-80 lbs 167.50-170.00; 80-90 lbs 160.00-170.00; 93 lbs 170.00. hair 202.50-235.00; 60-70 lbs 195.00-215.00; 70-80 lbs 175.00-187.50; 80-90 lbs 157.50-190.00; 90-100 lbs 160.00-
wooled and shorn 40-50 lbs 340.00-370.00; 50-60 290.00-350.00; 60-70 lbs 205.00-265.00, few 290.00; 70-80 182.50-230.00; 80-90 lbs 180.00-225.00; 90-100 lbs 170.00hair 40-50 lbs 385.00; 60-70 lbs 212.50-250.00; 70-80 215.00-222.50; 84 lbs 215.00; 94 lbs 195.00.
Dakota: wooled and shorn 53 lbs 195.00; 60-70 lbs 170.00-230.00, few 255.00; 70-80 lbs 147.50-175.00; 80-90 125.00-165.00; 90-100 lbs 126.00-165.00. hair 60-70 160.00-180.00; 78 lbs 142.00; 84 lbs 185.00; 90-100 lbs 127.00-164.00. test.
Missouri: hair 40-50 lbs 320.00-345.00; 50-60 lbs 270.00300.00; 60-70 lbs 270.00-295.00; 70-80 lbs 235.00-250.00; 80-90 lbs 202.50-237.50.
Superior Video: CO: 500: wooled 95 lbs 138.00 for current delivery.
Slaughter Ewes: San Angelo: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) no test; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 70.00-97.00, hair 108.00-110.00; Utility and Good 1-3 (medium flesh) 109.00, hair 94.00-115.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) hair 90.00-100.00; Cull and Utility 1-2 (very thin) 80.00-94; Cull 1 50.00-82.00.
New Holland: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) no test; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 70.00-115.00, hair 100.00-130.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) 52.00-72.00; Cull 1 no test.
National Direct Delivered Feeder Pig Report 12/9/22
Receipts This Week: 68,391
Early weaned pigs steady to 4.00 per head higher. All feeder pigs steady to firm. Demand moderate for moderate offerings.
Volume By State Or Province Of Origin: Missouri 4.2%
Total Composite Weighted Average Receipts and Price (Formula and Cash):
All Early Weaned Pigs: 62,101 head, wtd. avg. 52.53.
All Feeder Pigs: 6,290 head, wtd. avg. 69.42.
Daily Direct Hog Report 12/12/22
Barrows and Gilts Purchased Swine (including Packer Sold)
National Head Count: 5,451
National Price Range: 74.00-83.00.
Western Cornbelt Wtd Avg Price: 82.31.
Western Cornbelt 5 Day Rolling Avg: 84.54 .
Mo. Weekly Hay Summary 12/9/22
Not much has changed over the last week weather is pretty much a copy of last week, the drought monitor is nearly a reprint, so perhaps a case of no news is good
Gainesville Livestock Auction*
12/5/22 1,241
180.00-245.00 175.00-225.00 170.00-200.00 160.00-189.00 158.00-181.25
Joplin Regional Stockyards† 12/5/22
10,522
St-5 Higher
225.00-260.00
207.50-243.00
191.00-213.00
180.00-191.00
178.00-185.00
Kingsville Livestock Auction† 12/6/22
4,299
St-6 Higher
226.00-248.00
186.00-250.00 174.00-209.00 172.50-195.00 170.00-185.00
Mid Missouri Stockyards† 12/8/22
1,785 Uneven
221.00-231.00 209.00-222.00 182.00-200.50 169.00-188.00 163.00-172.00
Springfield Livestock Marketing† 12/7/22
2,671
Uneven
201.00-222.00 193.00-224.50 180.00-204.00 170.00-186.50 168.00-174.00
news. As we approach mid-December every day that is above freezing and lacking snow cover is considered a win. Hay movement remains good, the supply of hay is light to moderate, demand is moderate, and prices mostly steady. The Missouri Department of Agriculture has a hay directory visit http://mda.mo.gov/abd/haydirectory/ for listings of hay http://agebb.missouri.edu/haylst/
Alfalfa - Supreme (Ask/Per Ton): Medium Square 3x3: 250.00-300.00.
Alfalfa - Supreme (Ask/Per Bale): Small Square: 10.0015.00.
Alfalfa - Premium (Ask/Per Ton): Medium Square 3x3: 180.00-250.00.
Alfalfa - Good (Ask/Per Ton): Large Round: 150.00180.00.
Alfalfa - Good (Ask/Per Bale): Small Square: 5.00-9.00.
Alfalfa - Fair (Ask/Per Ton): Large Round: 125.00150.00.
Alfalfa/Grass Mix - Good/Premium (Ask/Per Bale): Small Square: 5.00-9.00.
Mixed Grass - Good/Premium (Ask/Per Ton): Large Round: 125.00-175.00.
Mixed Grass - Fair/Good (Ask/Per Ton): Large Round: 100.00-150.00.
Mixed Grass - Fair/Good (Ask/Per Bale): Small Square: 5.00-8.00.
Mixed Grass - Fair (Ask/Per Bale): Large Round: 50.0085.00.
Corn Stalk (Ask/Per Bale): 35.00.
Straw: Wheat (Ask/Per Bale): Small Square: 4.00-7.00.
Vienna South Central† 12/7/22
2,052
St-6 Higher
220.00-232.00 206.00-226.00 170.00-206.00 156.00-193.50 151.00-186.00
West Plains Ozarks Regional† 12/6/22
3,304
St-4 Lower
210.00-222.00 204.00-219.00 189.00-207.50 175.00-184.00
155.00-197.00 148.00-177.00 145.00-170.00 135.00-155.00 130.00-150.00
196.00
184.00-210.00
172.00-196.00
167.00-185.00
163.00-174.00 166.00-171.25
191.00
186.00-210.00 170.00-190.00 159.50-184.00 164.75-182.00 173.75-174.75
217.50-225.00 215.00 184.00
182.00-195.00 172.00-183.00 162.50-174.00 153.50-166.00 145.00-154.50
188.00-191.00
173.00-192.50 168.00-187.00 161.00-171.00 154.00-171.00 153.00-164.00
174.00-188.50 145.50-181.50 151.00-162.75 144.00-164.75
180.00 175.00-187.50 158.00-167.00 162.00
160.00 154.00-186.00 156.00-178.00 161.00-166.00
Growing up, Preston Walker was a self-described city kid. His first job, however, was at a farm.
“It was for a lady where I went to daycare,” he said. “I would do some odd and end farm chores. I was always outdoorsy, and as I got into high school, I started running around with guys who grew up on farms, and I liked it.”
When Preston and his wife Courtney bought 10 acres, which Preston said was mostly scrub brush, they decided to raise pigs.
“Growing up, my dad would smoke hogs for everyone’s birthday. That’s what you did; you had a get-together, smoked a hog and threw horseshoes,” Preston said. “I was working for a feed mill and delivering to a sow farm; it was kind of mind-boggling. These people were going through 30,000 pounds of feed every 10 days, and it was neat to see. I started asking questions about what it takes to raise pigs. We started with four piglets and have grown from there.”
That was about 10 years ago, and those first pigs led to the birth of P-C Hog Farm, LLC seven years ago, where the cou-
ple produces high-quality pork. On average, they finish 75 pigs annually, offering customers wholes and halves.
“When we started, I bought feeder pigs from a gentleman I learned a lot from,” Preston explained. “For about two or three years, we would buy feeder pigs, then fatten them out to butcher. Then, I decided we would farrow out our own. We got some gilts, raised them, and then had sows for a few years. In the long run, buying pigs is cheaper, so we went back to that. But now, especially in this day and age, we are raising some gilts so we can farrow out again because pigs are getting hard to find.”
Finding the right breed for the operation took some time, but the couple settled on a highly productive cross.
“We’ve tried some heritage breeds and some heritage crosses,” Preston said. “We are running a commercial-style pig, a Landrace/Duroc cross. A lot of people will say they don’t want commercial pigs. We aren’t running it like a commercial operation; we are just raising commercial pigs. They grow out very well, and the genetics are phenomenal, and they taste great.”
Purchased pigs are all born
on the same farm. Knowing the genetics of the pigs they are buying and the quality of those animals helps the Walkers keep their finished product consistent.
As the business has grown, so has the number of pigs raised at P-C Hog Farm. Initially, the Walkers had litters twice a year and were finishing 15 to 20 pigs at a time. Then, they opted to only offer pigs once a year.
“You work hard for six months, then done for the rest of the year,” Preston said. “Then we put in a raised floor barn, and we had more people wanting pigs, so we went back to twice a year.”
The addition of the raised feeding floors, Preston said, has improved the cleanliness of the operation.
“We were already no antibiotic, no hormone. The floor has helped so much in overall health that we don’t have to worry about parasites and things because all the manure is going underneath,” he explained. He added if a pig needed treatment, it is separated, and medication is administered. Treated animals are re-
tained for family use or sold to a customer who has no preference regarding antibiotic use.
Prior to their arrival at P-C Hog Farm, feeder pigs are vaccinated against viruses such as circovirus and mycoplasma pneumonia, but no other vaccinations are administered.
For 2023, the Walkers have 41 processing slots for spring and 25 so far for fall hogs, with an additional 25 appointments expected.
“With us being able to go back to twice a year, we’re going to have some room to get some new customers,” Preston said. “In the spring, those hogs and appointments are all spoken for, a deposit paid. For the fall hogs, which are September/October appointments, I will put the word out in January that we have X number of hogs available. If someone wants one, they can put down a deposit, and we will raise that hog out. With the way feed costs are, I don’t want to sit on them.”
Pigs come to the farm at 3 weeks of age, weighing between 8 and 10 pounds,
about six months before their processing dates. Pigs receive a 16-percent protein corn and soybean mix with an added mineral pack. They remain on the same feed until processing. The Walkers avoid hogs going off feed by never changing their feed.
“I was feeding sows, and I noticed the babies were there eating momma’s feed,” Preston said. “I thought, why would I change their feed when I wean them when they are used to it? That is one less stressful factor, and they have always done well on it, so I go with it.”
Pigs are sent to the processor as they are finished and as slots are available.
“When you have a barn full of pigs, you try to get your biggest ones out first,” Preston explained. “We see our weights range between 260 and 350. As long as the pigs are good enough, they go.”
In addition to finished hogs, some feeder pigs and lightweight hogs are also offered to customers.
“When we sell them as feeder pigs, they will be about 20 pounds, that way, they get over weaning, and we make sure they are healthy. When I start selling feeder pigs off my sows, they will be 4 weeks old. With us being smaller producers, I will be putting feed out when they are 7 to 10 days old. Those 4-week-old pigs will be in the 20- to 28-pound range. We wean at 4 weeks, then I will give them about three days, then I cut boars. I will wait four to five days before I sell them to ensure they are healed up and doing well.”
Gilts are sold at 4 to 5 weeks of age. Some of those gilts go onto other farms to become replacement sows.
“I would be willing to sell some boars once we start farrowing our again,” Preston said.
Preston said they plan to limit the number of sows, despite adding a farrowing program back into their production.
“It’s scary to expand anything with feed prices,” he said. “I’m not opposed to getting bigger, but I don’t see the farrowing program getting bigger. The butchering, if all were to go well and I’m able to get the spots at processing facilities, I’m willing to expand.
“We have gained more new customers over the last two years, so if we keep growing our customers, we will expand.”
STOCKTON - Hwy B, 153 Ac. This beautiful 153 ac. Has it all! Bottom ground, scattered woods and upground w/nice highway frontage, some sites, cattle-tights fence, Cedar Creek flowing through entire property. Don’t miss!
SQUIRES - CR 955, 264 Ac., Beautiful farm situated in a valley south of Ava, 3 BR home, shop, garage, equipment shed, livestock barn, ponds, creek. Don’t miss this one! ... $750,000
LOCKWOOD - 138 Ac CR 72. Road frontage on 2 sides, mostly all tillable, great Location ......... ............................................... $759,000
$688,500
STOCKTON - Hwy B, 250 Ac. Really nice, mostly open property for livestock & hay production, upland & bottom ground, pipe corrals, well, Cedar Creek flowing through entire property
$1,125,000
BRIGHTON - 3 to 6 Acre residential lots, paved roads, underground electric
STARTING AT $45,000
EVERTON - 45 Ac. Dade 177. Great panoramic views, mostly open, scattered trees, pond, road frontage on 2 sides................ $292,500
FORDLAND - Stewerd Drive, 25.5 Ac., Beautiful land w/great open views, multi. building sites, open, good fencing. ..................... $306,240
EVERTON - 80 Ac. Dade 77. Mostly open, scattered walnuts, fenced, gently rolling. ..........
.............................................. $440,000
STOCKTON - Hwy M, 78 Ac., Nice balance of open/wooded ground, 3 BR home with w/o basement, 24x36 morton barn, horse barn, equip. shed, good fencing. $485,000
DADEVILLE - 61 Ac. Dade 16, Great farm very close to Stockton Lake, nice home, 30x40, shop, 2 barns, great fencing & ponds, adjoining government land. ................... $525,000
MT. VERNON - Law. 2100, 21 Ac., Great equestrian facility, 2 BR home, stable barn, indoor arena, pipe turnout pens w/run in sheds, large outdoor sand arena ...................... $574,900
BOLIVAR - 325th Road, 202 Ac., This 202 +/- acre property is located north of Bolivar & adjacent to Pomme de Terre Lake, great hunting, livestock or recreation ground... $649,000
FORDLAND - 80 Ac., Greenhill Rd., Nice 4 BR, 3 BA walkout basement home, 40x60 shop, horse/hay barn, feeding traps & concrete line bunks, close to Hwy 60 $695,000
EVERTON - 130 Ac. Dade 117. 1.4 miles of road frontage on three sides, open, fences, well, pond, pipe corals, great views........... $715,000
MILLER - 120 Ac. Hwy 97, Nice open farm, tillable acres, nice livestock barns, home, great location .................................... $785,000
PIERCE CITY - Unicorn Rd., 122 Ac., Updated & operating dairy farm, 75 cow pre-stall, double 4 herringbone, hay barns, shop, calf barn, 3 BR home, cropland ........................... $825,000
FORDLAND -155 Ac., Tall Grass Rd., Nice open farm, tillable ground, shop, commodity barn, feed pens, pipe corrals .................. $995,000
EVERTON - 186 Ac. Dade 184. Fenced and crossfenced, well, several ponds, barn, shed, one mile of road frontage. Very Nice! .... $1,018,350
MOUNTAIN GROVE - 140 Ac. CR 76-149, Beautiful property lying South of Mountain Grove, 6,350 sq. ft. home is exquisite custom built w/ imported cypress, 40x60 insulated shop, 2 BR cabin, too much to list............... $1,750,000
LEBANON - 414 Ac. Just off Hwy 64, great grass farm, over 200 acres of bottom ground, home, equipment/hay building, fence & cross fence, NICE ..................................... $1,904,400
MT. VERNON - 445 Ac., Law. 2170, Great cattle ranch w/mostly open & some tillable ground, new fences, red iron barn, 3 wells .. $2,500,000
EVERTON - 522 Ac., Dade 184, all contiguous w/road frontage throughout, great open pasture w/views all around, 14 ponds, 2 barns, pipe/corral, really nice ............. $2,583,900
THEODOSIA - Wallace Ranch Rd., 638 Ac., Beautiful open and productive farm, live water, multi. springs, pipe corral, multi. barns, new 50x60 insulated shop, 3 BR w/o basement home, paved drive, privacy, really nice $3,000,000
GAINESVILLE - 1,753 Ac. Hwy N, Great grass farm setup & ready to go, 750 Ac. open, 1,000 Ac. timber, 4 BR home, commodity barn, equipment & livestock barns, great water & fencing .............................................. $4,999,000
............................... $720,000
LOCKWOOD - 160 Ac CR 41. Open and level pasture ground just north of Lockwood, fenced, rural water.
NORWOOD - 2,590 Ac. Hwy 76 CR 137, Exceptional cattle ranch in heart of cow/calf country, mostly open w/fence, 3 acres of bottom ground, many buildings, 30 plus ponds & pipe water, 2 nice homes, too much to list
GREENFIELD - Dade 125, 181 Ac., Great grass farm, new fencing & waterers, multiple pastures, new pipe corral, ponds, Nice! .. $724,000 tomkisseerealestate.com 417.882.5531
2022 Ford F350 4X4 Dual Rear Wheel - XLT, Bed Delete, 6.7 Liter, Red $63,560
2022 Ford F350 4X4 - XLT, 6.2 Liter, White $53,950
2022 Ford F350 4X4 Crewcab - Longbed Lariat, 6.7 Liter, White $77,500
2022 Ford Supercrew 4X4 - XLT 40/20/40, 5.0 Liter, Black $60,165
2022 Ford Supercrew 4X4 T - XLT 40/20/40, 3.5 Leb, Red $58,760
2022 Ford Escape AWD - SE 360 Convenience, 1.5 Leb, Gray $34,070
2022 Ford Escape AWD - SEL Pano Roof, 2.0 Leb, White
2022 Ford Explorer 4X4 - XLT Sport 7-Pass, 2.3 Leb, Red $48,520
4X4 Crewcab - Shortbed Lariat, 6.2 Liter, White, 79,774 $48,900
2004 Ford F250 4X4 Crewcab - Shortbed, 6.0 Liter, Black, 230,141 $17,900
2021 Ram 1500 4X4 Quadcab - Classic Warlock, 5.7 Liter, White, 18,910 $43,900
2020 Ram 1500 4X4 Crewcab - Limited, 5.7 Liter, Black, 37,398 $53,900
2018 Ford Supercrew 4X4 - XL FX4, 3.5 Leb, White, 35,179 $37,900
2014 Ford Supercrew 4X4 - XLT, 3.5 Leb, Black, 127,512 .............................. $18,900
2016 Ford F250 4X4 Crewcab - Shortbed Lariat, 6.7 Liter, Red, 129,507 ....... $38,900
2021 Ford F150 Supercab - XL 101A, 2.7Leb, Silver, 14,515 ......................... $29,800
l Age: 16
Hometown: Schell City, Missouri
Parents: Shannon and Clint Sanderson
Siblings: Colton and Clayton Sanderson
FFA Chapter: Northeast Vernon County FFA l Advisor: Brett Neil
What is your involvement in agriculture?
“I have been in FFA for four years and do everything I can to help out. I try to be there for every event. I was on the landscaping/nursery judging team this year. We were third at the districts, and seventh out of 48 at state.”
What are some other things you enjoy? “I like to meet new people. I think welding is cool. I like anything to do with animals, like working on the farm, hunting, fishing and road trips.”
What do you enjoy most about agriculture? “The people. I like being around farm people. Everyone is so nice and they work hard for a living.”
Future plans? Do they involve agriculture? “My future plans are to either go to a trade school for welding, a linemen school or be an ag teacher.”
e are now heading into the holiday season with all the hustle and bustle upon us. The next big hurdle we tackle in addition to gift giving is… tax season. As we all know, one of the only guaranteed things in farming is the annual income tax deadline.
The biggest piece of advice I can provide is, don’t wait until the last minute. An essential farm financial management tool is year-end tax planning. While we often coincide tax planning with having a “good year,” it can also help maintain steady taxable income across multiple years. This can help minimize owing taxes over a longer span of years, which also provides benefit in the not-so-good years.
Erin Harvey is a CRCM and assistant vice president at Lamar Bank & Trust Company in Lamar, Mo. She can be reached at eharvey@lbt.com.
When net farm income is high, three major strategies for tax management are: deferring income, prepaying expenses, and claiming accelerated depreciation. Deferring income, also known as “carry over,” refers to not selling cash crops, equipment, or livestock until 2023. Look at prepaying some farm expenses, such as feed, fertilizer, seed, fuel, etc., prior to year-end. Farmers are usually able to secure significant discounts and lock in favorable prices by doing this, which reduces operating costs. Given the current input prices and supply issues, be cautious in this area. Accelerated depreciation refers to using Section 179 and bonus depreciation methods. These allow purchases to be depreciated entirely or mostly in the current year and provide flexibility when purchasing assets for your operation. While accelerating deprecation now may seem to be to your advantage, special attention should be made as it could be detrimental in future years if relied on too heavily. Your tax preparer can help you plan for this and provide options to reach your target net farm income.
In years when income may be lower, the most common way to bump income up is to sell crops and livestock that typically would have been carried over. Current-year expenses such as insurance premiums, rent, or interest can also be deferred to help reduce expenses. Cutting back on prepaid expenses also provides flexibility, but you could miss out on discounts.
Even after year-end, another great way to manage tax liability while preparing for retirement is to make contributions to a traditional deductible IRA. For 2022, individuals can contribute up to $6,000 to an IRA. If you’re over age 50, you can contribute an additional $1,000. IRA and health savings accounts (HSAs) contributions are not due until the April tax deadline.
While year-end tax planning and financial management take extra effort, the overall goal to keep in mind is not to eliminate taxes but to understand what is generating the tax liability and adjust accordingly. This can be accomplished with accurate and timely farm records and working closely with your tax advisor who is familiar with all tax benefits and tools available to a farming business.
417-659-8334 LEBANON, MO 417-288-4111
Making farming a little easier
By Danae Ranck
Financial assistance for agricultural producers is available through implementing conservation techniques with the Natural Resource Conservation Services.
The NRCS provides programs designed to help reduce soil erosion, and increase water quality and wildlife habitat. The NRCS is a part of the United States Department of Agriculture.
“The goal is to help landowners improve natural resources on their farms or land that is going to benefit natural resources by preserving them and improving them to ultimately produce better products,” said Corey Farmer, assistant state conservationist for Northwest Arkansas field operations with USDA-Natural Resource Conservation Services.
The NRCS typically works with private agricultural landowners to improve their conservation techniques and increase production. It is also continuing to work with more urban gardens and smaller farms. Agricultural producers can become involved in these programs by applying on the NRCS state website or contacting their local NRCS department. These programs are designed and authorized every four to five years through the Farm Bill. Each state is allotted money to spend in various conservation areas. There are environmental, conservation, regional, and watershed programs. The two most common programs Arkansas and Missouri NRCS implement are the Environment Quality Incentive Program and the Conservation Stewardship Program.
The EQIP is the flagship program that is designed to help producers implement new conservation techniques on their land. The goal is to improve the quality of soil, air or water. The NRCS provides financial assistance for the producer to do these practices.
“EQIP’s focus is to solve issues with resource concerns, like soil erosion. It helps solve bigger problems and needs more financial assistance,” said Missouri NRCS Program Liaison Paul McDonald.
The CSP is an incentive program to continue conservation practices producers are already implementing. The CSP enhances what is already happening at a higher-level facility.
“It is generally an incentive or payment for things they are already doing on their farm and financial assistance for them to implement practices on their farm,” said Farmer.
“I would like to learn more about programs to help market farm products.”
Susan Clark Webster County, Mo.
Ozarks
Typically, these programs look like starting cover crops, grazing rotation or water quality treatments. Different programs have different financial returns.
“Sometimes practices might be good for the environment but not high financial return,” McDonald said.
The funding is provided through specific programs designed to meet the individual needs of every producer. Producers or landowners can apply through their state website or by contacting their local NRCS office to begin the application process. After a series of application questions, NRCS will partner with the producer to evaluate the land or property to create a plan and implement a program. Each program is voluntary but has an incentive or financial assistance.
“Sometimes [increased production] is a benefit, but the overarching goal is to improve or maintain natural resources, which in return is generally going to enhance production,” said Farmer.
Practices like cover crops help with erosion and can potentially create better soil, but a producer may not see a large increase in financial return. However, with improved grazing systems, a producer may be able to increase the number of animals or decrease the cost of other feed and will see a larger financial return after implementing these practices.
Any producer can apply for funding. Each applicant is evaluated and given a contract with steps and agreements for the program. However, according to Farmer and McDonald, it is a competitive program because the “demands outweigh the available funds.”
The evaluation will be scored and placed on a list depending on factors like how high risk the problems might be. The applications open in November and go through a series of tests to be ranked according to the situation’s needs. The funds will then be distributed in late winter. If an applicant does not receive funding, they can reapply the next year. According to McDonald, the NRCS provides suggestions to improve the application for the next year, but it is all voluntary conservation.
Farmer noted frequently producers are unaware of their need for conservation practices. And unaware of these programs that can benefit their production. Reaching out to local conservationists and evaluating land will be opportunities for increased production and financial return.
“Water assistance with farm ponds or natural streams for our livestock, especially during drought conditions. We need help and guidance in keeping ponds clean and debris free.”
Linda Sansom Laclede County, Mo.
“I’d like to look at USDA capital loans.”
“I appreciated the DSP-3 they [the USDA], which was for grazing systems. You could get waters put in, some interior fencing to divide pastures into paddocks.”
Susan Abbott St. Clair County, Mo.Mo.
Cody Goswick Lawrence County,What is an program you would like to explore or have participated in?
what do you say?
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Even in smaller poultry operations, like backyard or hobby facilities, preventing disease is a very important step in having productive, healthy birds. While practicing proper biosecurity measures is one of the most important steps in disease prevention, vaccinating poultry flocks could be the key to keeping deadly sickness out of the chicken coop.
“There is no cure for viral diseases, so vaccination along with stringent biosecurity, are the effective protective measures that can be employed,” said poultry health specialist and veterinary medical officer of Benton and Washington counties, Terry Conger.
According to an article by the Colorado State University Extension Office, only poultry flocks in good health should be vaccinated. Which further proves why biosecurity is so important.
“Stringent biosecurity is the most protective tool that can be used to protect against infection,” said Conger. “Biosecurity requires a conscious effort in the part of the flock owner.”
The only time the necessity for vaccines isn’t as great, is when the flock isn’t being introduced to new birds, and current birds don’t return if they leave the facility. However, it’s important to know the history of infectious disease in a flock so that the proper vaccines can be administered if necessary.
The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences released an article stating that vaccines should be considered if a flock has a history of disease problems, an owner takes their birds to poultry shows or if birds are purchased from auc-
tions or hatcheries.
An exception to that, however, is Marek’s disease. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, this disease is present in almost every flock, so vaccination is strongly recommended for all birds.
The Marek’s disease vaccination must be done in the egg, at one day of age or as early as possible, according to Conger. The virus is ubiquitous and spreads through feathers, so vaccinating birds early is crucial to establish immunity.
Many vaccines must be given at a specific time to ensure effectiveness. These vaccines must be given to prevent high incidence diseases such as Marek’s disease, Fowl Pox and Newcastle disease.
“I’ve seen a high incidence of low virulence Newcastle disease in backyard flocks, so that vaccine is useful in preventing many diseases,” Conger said.
Currently, there is an outbreak of the highly infectious Avian Influenza. Hundreds of commercial and backyard flocks have been affected by the disease. No vaccine has been developed yet, so proper biosecurity is the only prevention method.
Conger said more than 90 percent of the 459 infected flocks could have prevented Avian Flu with stringent biosecurity.
Poultry farmers with small operations may purchase vaccines from their local livestock feed store or co-op. Disease prevention is a very important component of running a poultry operation. Whether big or small, experts recommend vaccinating and practicing proper biosecurity to keep illnesses out of the chicken coop.
New and beginning farmers make up 27 percent of American producers.
Those with 10 or fewer years of farming experience have special financial opportunities which can help them manage their bottom line while investing in their operation.
The federal government, Farm Service Agency and local farm banks acknowledge the declining age of the farmer and the expensive start-up costs of agricultural operations. To address both of these issues, special resources, including educational opportunities, loan guarantees, micro-loans and grants have been established to leverage the success of new farmers and ranchers.
“Get to know the people in your FSA office, if you build a relationship with them, they will take care of you,” said Caleigh Waltington, a Farm Credit of Western Arkansas loan officer and young producer. “When they know you and your operation, they can guide you directly to federal resources that you qualify for.”
All farmers, experienced and new, can use FSA and state and local county extension services as a tool for maximizing federal resources for their operations. Utilizing maximum federal resources and implementing a sound farm accounting practice is how new farmers can build a sustainable long-term financial plan for their operations.
“You can be a great farmer but if you don’t have that financial management as a small business you won’t last,” said, Dr. Nathan Kemper, Associate Professor of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness at the Dale Bumpers College of Agriculture, Food, and Life Sciences.
Kemper explained young farmers need to value farm financial literacy. He spoke of the importance of being able to write a balance sheet, understanding your as-
sets, having a long-term business plan, and utilizing state and federal resources.
Resources like the University of Missouri Extension website, which offers record keeping and financial management tools designed to help farm businesses make management decisions. The website includes digital and printable farm record books, accounting software, financial statement interpretation tools and a tool for measuring and analyzing farm financial performance.
“Long-term managing your bottom line is a combination of assessing how you have done in the past financially and taking the expert knowledge of extension and FSA and making yearly plans based on the two,” said Kemper. Some other available resources for farmers are offered through individual banks and can include new farmers’ special rate discounts and reduced fees for first-time farmers and first-time land buyers.
The educational resource may also be offered locally. The Farm Credit Association banks in Arkansas take their support of new farmers deeper by hosting a Young and Beginning Farmers Conference called The Future Legacy. Other educational opportunities may be hosted by county extension agents or breed associations.
Events like The Future Legacy, Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Conference and Arkansas Women in Agriculture allow new farmers and ranchers to get connected with resources, build a networking circle and allow a forum for discussion around common struggles.
New farmers and ranchers can work to leverage their success by fully utilizing federal resources available, building networks of support across the industry and intentionally practicing farm accounting skills. For those producers who do not feel confident handling the accounting for their operations, they might consider hiring an individual to
do their accounting or teaching themselves how to through the extension and FSA-offered online resources.
Waltington also recommended taking advisement from older more experienced farmers or ranchers in the same area of the industry. She explained that there is no ex-
perience like living the life and doing the work of farming and ranching. Having a mentor in the industry that can offer advice on financial practices can help bridge knowledge gaps on farm finance management that federal resources and extension services may not be able to help with.
The crisp fall days are about to flee, and the frigid winter days are about to make their way into the Ozarks. As the cold weather approaches, it’s time to prepare trucks, tractors, and other equipment to ensure they are in good working order through the winter.
Experts recommend first and foremost checking the antifreeze. An antifreeze tester can be purchased for a few dollars. The tester will let producers know if the antifreeze in the tractor is good or if it needs to be replaced. If the antifreeze is old, it’s time to drain, flush and replace it.
However, if the antifreeze is at the proper concentration simply add more if levels are low.
While checking the antifreeze, it is a good time to also check the oil and filters. Refill or replace as needed.
When it comes to fuel treatment producers may take different approaches depending on what they plan to do with their tractor or equipment over the winter. If the equipment is simply being stored, then add a fuel treatment to prevent fuel left in the tank from creating future problems. Old fuel can lead to deposits that can clog a system and make the equipment slow to start the next season.
If producers plan to use the tractor through the winter, it is equally important to take good care of the fuel system.
“I would recommend changing the fuel filters out,” Buddy King, manager at Marion County Equipment, in Pyatt, Ark., advised. “I would make sure you don’t have any moisture or water in your fuel system and then put in some sort of fuel stabilizer.”
Timing is important when determining when to add fuel stabilizer. “The time to put in fuel stabilizer and conditioner is two weeks before it turns cold, not the day it turns cold,” King said. “You have
to have it in and run at least half a tank through the tractor, so you get it in the lines, filters, and in the system.”
Give tractors and other equipment a thorough cleaning, making sure to keep water away from seals containing bearings. Carefully clean battery terminals as well. Additionally, apply grease or a rust preventative solvent spray on any bare metal parts on the equipment.
This is also a good time to conduct a visual inspection of the equipment. King recommends checking the battery and battery connections to make sure they are in good working order. Whether the equipment is being used during the winter or being put away until spring, now is a good time to address any damage or issues.
If possible, find a place to store your trac-
tor and other equipment. Equipment left outside deteriorates faster than equipment stored inside. In situations in which space is limited, choose to store the most expensive equipment. When there is not an option to store the tractor or equipment inside, a cover can also provide protection. However, choose a cover that is not plastic. In some cases, plastic covers can stifle air circulation and trap moisture.
Additionally, producers continuing to use their tractors through the winter should consider purchasing a block heater. “If you are going to start and feed with your tractor in the winter, a block heater is a good idea, so you can plug in the tractor and let it warm up,” King said. King suggests purchasing a timer that will kick on the block heater a couple of hours before the tractor will be utilized. That way, when the producer is ready to roll out the tractor, it is warmed up and ready to go.
By Noralee Townsend
Nutrition in your herd is critical for your operation so it is important to know what your cattle need in their diet so you can have your herd looking and producing the best of their ability.
“The first thing a producer needs to understand is the quality of their forage,” Professor of Animal Science at the University of Arkansas, Dr. Beth Kegley said.
Understanding what producers have on their farm is one of the most important things to think about when considering about implementing a feed program. According to Kegley, the cost of this analysis is worth your money in return.
“Sampling your hay is a very large return of investment – to have those samples analyzed to see what nutrients are already present in that forage for your cattle,” she said.
“Producers should take forage inventories throughout the year,” Director of Livestock and Forestry Research Station at Batesville Shane Gadberry said.
Along with sampling the hay, it is beneficial to know what forages go into the hay.
Local county extension agents will work with producers to get samples and inventories of their forage. The sample is called Feed and Forage Analysis.
These samples can be taken after each cutting of hay in each pasture. It can be done at any point in the year such as right after the hay was baled or at the end of the cutting season. If a producer wants an overall average, they can send in one sample but it is not going to tell which pasture produces better hay, according to Kegley.
This will help to know which pasture produces nutrient-rich hay and which pastures do not.
“Knowing the protein and energy value allows you to decide what you need if anything, additionally for those cattle,” Kegley said. “If your hay is adequate in protein, you do not need to spend more money to buy feed supplements. If your hay is deficient
in protein, you most definitely need to care about the protein in the supplemental feed you are going to buy.”
If producers find they do need to add a supplemental feed to their cattle, the most efficient way is slowly transitioning them onto the feed.
“Generally, you start with modest levels of supplementation and move them up as incrementally to higher levels,” Kegley said.
Producers can ask extension agents to help do the math to calculate how much supplemental feed you may need to extend your hay throughout the whole year, according to Kegley.
The Comparative Feed Value Calculator is a great resource to figure out protein and energy in the feed you are feeding.
Producers need to think about implementing feed programs as a strategy. Consider how much hay your going to have to see how much feed you need to buy.
It depends on what kind of pasture producers have or when they want to start grazing your cattle for the year or whether you want to plant some winter annuals for early Spring grazing.
“If you add so much grain the cow is going to eat less hay by her choice so you can limit feed hay and only feed so much a day,” Kegley said. “There are ways to limit feed herds a very high concentration of a high grain diet with a minimum amount of hay to extend that hay supply and you would know how much grain to offer.”
According to Kegley, each producer will have a different set of factors going into those decisions.
Important factors producers need to consider include thinking about the goals that they want from their herd, knowing what they already have in their forage and finding out the protein and energy values for what they are considering purchasing.
It is important for producers to know what they already have so they will not waste money buying feed they may or may not need.
December 2022
22 Learn How to Stretch Your Food Dollars – 6-7:30 p.m. – New Christian County MU Extension Office, 1701-B Jackson Street (Next to Great Southern Bank), Ozark, Mo. – to register call 417-581-3558 or email christianco@missouri.edu
5 Lawrence County Soils and Crops Conference – 6-9 p.m. – Southwest Research, Extension & Education Center, Mt. Vernon, Mo. – pre-register by Jan. 3 – to register call 417-466-3102 or visit https://bit.ly/lawrence23
6-8 55th Annual Missouri Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show –Margaritaville Lake Resort, 494 Tan Tara Estate Drive, Osage Beach, Mo. – to register visit www.mocattle.com – 573-499-9162
7 Country Cured Ham Workshop – 4-8 p.m. – Webster County MU Extension Office, Marshfield, Mo. – register by Dec. 16 – to register or for more information call 417-859-2044 – register online at go.ozarksfn.com/ppl
10 Pesticide Applicator Training - General structure, termite, fumigation, wood products – Online Course – 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – to register visit www.cvent.com/d/19q5ry/4W
10-3/14 Developing Effective Farm Leases: Insights for Owners and Tenants –7-7:30 p.m. – Online via Zoom – Cost: $100 for all 10 weeks – for questions contact Ray at 573-884-7788 or MasseyR@missouri.edu – register online at muext.us/leases
11 Pesticide Applicator Training - Ag plant, ag animal, seed treatment – Online Course – 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – to register visit www.cvent.com/d/19q5ry/4W
12 Pesticide Applicator Training - Forest, aquatic and public health – Online Course – 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – to register visit www.cvent.com/d/19q5ry/4W
17 Intro to QuickBooks Desktop – 6-9 p.m. – No Cost to Attend – State Fair Community College, 3797 Osage Beach Pkwy, Room 147, Osage Beach, Mo. – to register visit missouri.ecenterdirect.com/events/24006
17-18 2023 Midwest Crops Conference – Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center, 1201 N. Woodbine, St. Joseph, Mo. – for more information contact Randa at 660-582-8101 or dotyr@missouri.edu – register online at go.ozarksfn.com/iux
17-3/9 Stay Strong, Stay Healthy - Level 1 – Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. – Cost: $50 – Online via Zoom – pre-register by Jan. 15 – for questions contact Lynda at 573-634-2824 or zimmermanl@missouri.edu – register online at go.ozarksfn.com/v96
18 Pesticide Applicator Training - Ornamental turf, right of way and forest –Online Course – 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – to register visit www.cvent.com/d/19q5ry/4W
19-2/16 Extension Garden Steward – Thursdays, 3:30-4:45 p.m. – Online via Zoom – Cost: $99 – for more information contact Tamra at reallt@missouri.edu –register online at go.ozarksfn.com/ot6
December 2022
17 Bradley Cattle Bred Heifer Sale – Springfield Livestock Marketing Center, Springfield, Mo. – 417-848-3457 or 765-376-8784
31-1/14 Cattlemen’s Congress – Oklahoma City, Okla. – 405-235-0404
January 2023
2 2023 National Limousin Sale – Oklahoma City, Okla. – 303-220-1693
19-12/21/23 Introduction to Neighboring 101 – Online via Zoom – all sessions run from noon-1 p.m. – for more information contact David Burton at 417-881-8909 or burtond@missouri.edu – register online at go.ozarksfn. com/qey
19-3/2 Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Pain – Online via Zoom – Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-noon – to register call Kathy at 573-540-1100
19 Pesticide Applicator Training - Ag plant, general structure, termite and wood products – Online Course – 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – to register visit www.cvent.com/d/19q5ry/4W
19 Private Pesticide Applicator Training – 6-9 p.m. – MU Extension Office, Lebanon, Mo. – pre-registation required by one week prior to class –417-532-7126
23-27 Selling Food at the Farmers Market 2023 – Onlina via Zoom – Cost: $10 –noon-1 p.m. each day – for questions contact Leslie at 314-400-2115 or bertschl@missouri.edu – register online at go.ozarksfn.com/qbz 23-3/20 Stay Strong, Stay Healthy - Level 2 – Online via Zoom – Mondays and Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. – Cost: $50 – for questions contact Melissa at 816-892-0553 or cottonmr@missouri.edu – register online at go.ozarksfn. com/sfr
24 Advanced QuickBooks Desktop – 6-9 p.m. – Cost: $39 – State Fair Community College, Room 147, 3797 Osage Beach Pkwy, Osage Beach, Mo. – to register visit missouri.ecenterdirect.com/events/24019
24, 26 Alfalfa 101 Workshop – 5:30-8:30 p.m. – Cost: $20 per person – Online via Zoom – register by Jan. 20 – for more information contact Pat at 417-448-2560 or MillerPD@missouri.edu – register online at go.ozarksfn.com/rur 24-3/14 Growing Specialty Crops in Tunnels - Protected Agriculture – Tuesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. – Online via Zoom – Cost: $75 – for more information contact Juan at 816-877-4199 or jcabrera-garcia@missouri.edu – to register visit muext.us/SCPT or call 636-797-5391
24 Pesticide Applicator Training - Ag plant, ornamental/turf, aquatic, right of way – Online Course – 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – to register visit www.cvent.com/d/19q5ry/4W
24 Private Pesticide Applicator Training – 6-9 p.m. – MU Extension Office, Hermitage, Mo. – pre-registation required by one week prior to class –417-745-6767
25 Pesticide Applicator Training - General structure, termite, fumigation and public health – Online Course – 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – to register visit www.cvent.com/d/19q5ry/4W
26 Pesticide Applicator Training - Ag animal, ornamental/turf, seed treatment, right of way – Online Course – 8 a.m.-4 p.m. – to register visit www.cvent.com/d/19q5ry/4W
31 Intro to QuickBooks Online – 6-9 p.m. – Cost: $39 – State Fair Community College, Room 147, 3797 Osage Beach Pkwy, Osage Beach, Mo. – register online at missouri.ecenterdirect.com/events/24011
10 Magness Land & Cattle Mile-High Elite Sale – L365auctions.com – 402-350-3447 or 970-396-3584
February 2023
18 Gilbert Cattle Company Annual Production Sale – Oldfield, Mo. – 417-860-6500 or 417-224-6296
Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com
12/17 Andy & Diane Weeks Estate Auction –Richards, Mo. • Nance Auction Service
12/17 H & L Auction – Pleasant Hope, Mo. • H & L Auction
12/17 Personal Property Auction – Aldrich, Mo. • Diamond S Auction Real Estate Company
12/17 Stonie Heckadon Estate Auction – Rich Hill, Mo. • Wade Auction Service
1/1 Ron Lefty & Ruth Lancaster Estate Auction – Sheldon, Mo. • Nance Auction Service
12/17 Absolute Farm Real Estate Auction –Versailles, Mo. • Dick Hutchison Auction & Real Estate LLC
12/17 December Consignment Auction –Conway, Mo. • J.D. Lewis Auction Company LLC
12/17 Absolute Real Estate & Estate Auction – Republic, Mo. • Foster Auction & Appraisal Service
12/17 Business Liquidation Auction – Ash Grove, Mo. • Foreman Auction Service, LLC
12/17 Living Estate Auction – Fair Grove, Mo. • Allen Easterly Auction Service
12/17 Personal Property Auction – Kimberling City, Mo. • ree Creeks Auction
12/17 Real Estate Auction – Aurora, Mo. • McKnight Auction Company LLC
12/17 Rolene M. Reed Real Estate Auction –Republic, Mo. • Glenworth Auction & Realty, 417-767-4345, glenworth.com • See Our Ad on Page 31
12/31 Real Estate & Farm Equipment Auction – Billings, Mo. • Melton Auction & Realty Co., LLC
1/1 New Years Day Antique Auction –Branson, Mo. • Coon Ridge Auction Company
1/14 Absolute Real Estate & Estate Auction – Spring eld, Mo. • Diamond S Auction Real Estate Company
12/31-1/1 Antiques and Primitive Auction –West Plains, Mo. • P&K Enterprise
12/17 LeRoy & Kay Pummill Living Estate Auction – Lamonte, Mo. • Johnson Auction Service
12/21 Equipment Online Auction – bidding closes 12/21 at 10 a.m. – bigiron.com • Big Iron Auctions
12/22 Equipment Online Auction – bidding close 12/22 at 10 a.m. – bigiron.com • Big Iron Auctions
12/22 Whalen Farms Farm Retirement Auction – Mexico, Mo. • Wheeler Auctions & Real Estate, 660-327-5890, wheelerauctions.com • See Our Ad on Page 14
12/27 Equipment Online Auction – bidding closes 12/27 at 10 a.m. – bigiron.com • Big Iron Auctions
12/28 Equipment Online Auction – bidding closes 12/28 at 10 a.m. – bigiron.com • Big Iron Auctions
12/28 Farm Retirement Auction – Jonesburg, Mo. • Wheeler Auctions & Real Estate, 660-327-5890, wheelerauctions.com • See Our Ad on Page 14
12/29 Equipment Online Auction – bidding closes 12/29 at 10 a.m. – bigiron.com • Big Iron Auctions
12/30 Kaiser Farm Retirement Auction –Centralia, Mo. • Wheeler Auctions & Real Estate, 660-327-5890, wheelerauctions.com • See Our Ad on Page 14
12/30 Public Storage Unit Auction – Cadet, Mo. • Jarvis Auction Service
12/31 Real Estate Auction – Doniphan, Mo. • JP’s Estate Liquidation
1/1 New Year’s Day Antiques, Tools & Firearms Auction – Harviell, Mo. • JP’s Estate Liquidation
1/1 New Year’s Day Auction – Levasy, Mo. • Stanleys Auction Service
1/7 Antique & Primitive Furniture Auction – Marquand, Mo. • Dees Auction Management
1/7 Public Auction – Troy, Mo. • ornhill Real Estate & Auction Company
1/8 Huge Antique Estate Auction – Fenton, Mo. • Asselmeier May Auctions
1/14 50th Annual Green County Tech FFA Farm Equipment Auction – Paragould, Ark. • Danny Williams Auctions
1/21 Estate Auction – Dexter, Mo. • Dees Auction Management
1/28 Annual January Consignment Auction – Paris, Mo. • Wheeler Auctions & Real Estate, 660-327-5890, wheelerauctions. com • See Our Ad on Page 14
1/28 Henke Family Trust Auction – Troy, Mo. • ornhill Real Estate & Auction Company
— ANGUS —
Bradley Cattle - Marshfield, MO417-848-3457brucembradley@hotmail.com
Double H Ranch - Ava, MO816-896-4600
Mead Farms - Barnett, MO573-216-0210 - 573-280-6855
Pitts Angus Farms - Hermitage, MO417-399-3131www.pittsangusfarms.com
—
B/F Cattle Company - Butler, MO660-492-2808
Hilltop Farms - Asbury, MO417-842-3225 - 417-529-0081 - 417-529-7556
Rumfelt Farms - Phillipsburg, MO - 417-664-6936brumfelt7556@gmail.com
— BRANGUS —
Horsehead Ranch - Talala, Okla. - 918-695-2357www.HorseheadRanch.net
— CHAROLAIS —
Bradley Cattle - Marshfield, MO417-848-3457brucembradley@hotmail.com
Mead Farms - Barnett, MO573-216-0210 - 573-280-6855
— GELBVIEH —
Hilltop Farms - Asbury, MO417-842-3225 - 417-529-0081 - 417-529-7556
Rumfelt Farms - Phillipsburg, MO - 417-664-6936brumfelt7556@gmail.com
— HEREFORDS —
Jim D. Bellis - Aurora, MO417-678-5467 - 417-466-8679
Journagan Ranch - Mtn. Grove, MO - 417-838-1482
Laze D Herefords &
Bakerville Cattle CompanyJerico Springs, MO417-398-0019lazedherefords@hotmail.com
Mead Farms - Barnett, MO573-216-0210 - 573-280-6855
— LIMOUSIN —
Glendenning J Bar J RanchLebanon, MO - 417-588-6121 - 417-664-0913 - 417-664-1186 - jack@jbarjlimousin.comwww.jbarjlimousin.com
Minor Limousin - Strafford, MO 417-576-6364 - 443-605-6127 - www.minorlimousin.com
Pinegar Limousin - Springfield, MO - 1-877-PINEGAR
— RED ANGUS —
Bradley Cattle - Marshfield, MO417-848-3457brucembradley@hotmail.com
Dunseth Farm - Halfway, MO417-445-2256
Watkins Cattle CompanyHarrison, AR - 870-741-9795 – 870-688-1232 –watkinscattleco@windstream.net
— SALERS —
Dunseth Farm - Halfway, MO417-445-2256
— ULTRABLACK —
Horsehead Ranch - Talala, Okla. - 918-695-2357 -
Experience in agriculture preferred, but not required. Some photography skills needed. Freelancers should have excellent organizational and time management skills, the ability to produce news stories following AP style and a strong initiative. Must be able to meet deadlines and follow through with projects.
Freelancers are required to travel to farms to conduct interviews and take pictures.
Whether weaning calves, keeping cows in condition or pushing for efficient gain,
MFA Cattle Charge with Rumensin upholds its reputation as MFA’s premier choice in feed. Formulated to build frame and muscle without overconditioning, this complete feed safely and economically puts pounds on cattle at every stage of production and provides the nutritional support your herd needs to perform.
Plus, Cattle Charge is formulated with MFA’s own Shield Technology to naturally boost immunity and overall animal health.
Let MFA help you find the feed that’s right for your cattle. Contact your local MFA for details or call 573-876-5244.
Whole farm perspective. Whole farm value.
Ash Grove - 417-751-2433
MFA Agri Services
Aurora - 417-678-3244
Coop Assn. #86
Bolivar - 417-326-5231
Farmers Exchange
Buffalo - 417-345-2121
Farmers Exchange
Cassville - 417-847-3115
MFA Agri Services
Fair Grove - 417-759-2525
Farmers Exchange
Golden City - 417-537-4711
MFA Agri Services
Lamar - 417-682-5300
MFA Agri Services
Lebanon - 417-532-3174
MFA Farmers Produce EX #139
Lowry City - 417-644-2218
Farmers Exchange
Marshfield - 417-468-2115
MFA Agri Services
Mt. Vernon - 417-466-3752
MFA Agri Services
Ozark - 417-581-3523
MFA Agri Services
Stockton - 417-276-5111
Farmers Exchange
Urbana - 417-993-4622
Farmers Exchange
Weaubleau - 417-428-3336
Farmers Exchange