Larry and Ellie Primeaux, first-generation cattle farmers in Mississippi, balance full-time careers with raising Angus and Brangus cattle. Larry, a dedicated game warden and K-9 handler with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, brings his deep knowledge of local wildlife to their cattle operation. Ellie, a passionate 5th-grade teacher, integrates agriculture into the classroom, educating the next generation about farming and rural life. Larry and Ellie offer real-life insights into modern cattle farming plus the challenges and rewards of starting from scratch. They discuss how Larry’s law enforcement and military career often take him away from the farm for long stretches, but how fulfilling it is to serve their community and country. Larry and Ellie have taken advantage of opportunities for beginning producers and see value in meeting peers in the industry and furthering their education.

Brett Chedzoy of Angus Glen Farms in Watkins Glen, New York, shares how his family built a successful grass-fed cow-calf operation practicing agroforestry and silvopasture. As the 2024 ESAP Region I award winner, Brett discusses sustainable grazing, managing 100 paddocks across 500 acres, and using cattle to improve both land and legacy. From Argentina to upstate New York, their story displays stewardship, family, and forward thinking.

The Environmental Stewardship Award Program is sponsored by USDA NRCS, Corteva Agriscience, and USFWS.

Accuracy is important to move the industry in the right direction and cattle size and frame have changed significantly, but the yield grading system hasn’t changed since the 1960s to match them. We need new technology and new grading algorithms to accurately measure carcass data and return profit to the producer. Professor Ty Lawrence with West Texas A&M University and James Henderson with the Bradley 3 Ranch in Texas join us to talk about the changes coming to red meat yield.

https://www.stockmanshipandstewardship.org/