A message from the author:
Over the past few months, I have had the opportunity to travel throughout the state of Oklahoma to hear the stories of our nine Farm and Ranch Family Recognition recipients. From the flatlands of the panhandle to the Wichita Mountains peaking in the skyline, our state knows how to paint a picturesque background for our stories and our lives.
The farm and ranch families recognized this year are as diverse as they come. Each shared a unique story of their current operation, their crops grown and animals raised, and their backgrounds that place them where they are today.
Even though each recognized family is diverse, it is the tradition of being an agriculturist that ties each farm and ranch family together. Whether that be to continue the tradition or to pass it along to those who come next, the legacy of being stewards of the land and its animals drives their passion.
There is no question that our farmers and ranchers face the demanding responsibility of being the one percent providing for the 100 percent, but as our district eight Farm and Ranch Family Recognition recipient, Jake Calvert, said, “If not me, who?”
It was an honor to sit down with all nine of our Farm and Ranch Family Recognition recipients to hear their stories of perseverance and success, and it is my privilege to share their stories with you. Each story is a true testament of keeping the tradition alive.
About the Farm and Ranch Family Recognition program
OKFB’s Farm and Ranch Family Recognition program celebrates nine farm and ranch families from around the state who carry on the best traditions of Oklahoma agriculture and our rural communities.
As part of their recognition, each family received a cash award and a custom sign to hang at their farm gate. Each family was also recognized at the 2024 OKFB convention with a video sharing their agricultural operation and heritage.
To read the full Farm and Ranch Family stories view the magazine in your browser.
In addition to reading about each 2024 Farm and Ranch Family Recognition recipient, you can watch videos featuring each family by clicking this link.
