Features

History of feedyard industry grows richer in Hereford, Texas

From the name of the town’s newspaper, Hereford Brand, to the high school mascot, Hereford Whitefaces, almost every single aspect of life in this small Texas town is influenced by beef.

“You’re welcome back at V8 Ranch anytime,” smiled Brandon Cutrer as I pulled out of the drive after our interview – and I’m certain I’m not the only visitor who’s heard those words.

When the owners of the Santa Teresa Livestock Auction came together with a unique idea, they seemed to be following a theme of many successful entrepreneurs: Find a need and fill it – and that is exactly what they did.

Cronin Farms has been steadily improving their land management practices for 25 years. Since transitioning to no-till in 1992, the Cronins have carefully managed their land and their livestock to give both the best care.

The panhandle of Texas is the heart of America’s largest cattle-feeding area. More than 6.5 million fed cattle are marketed here each year, accounting for 30 percent of the total U.S. production according to the Texas Cattle Feeders Association.

A land of good cattle, good grass and good people—what few people there are

As the 46th least-populated state in the U.S., South Dakota is prime country for agriculture.