By JIM FARIS
The University of Missouri Extension brought together ag entrepreneurs, producers, and community members to the first stop of the Field to Consumer Farm Tour Series in its debut year. Participants came together at 1840 Cattle Company near Gower to tour and discuss how a family operation moves beef from the pasture to the plate, and building value and marketing.
Other topics discussed in-depth included production practices, business planning, risk managing, recordkeeping, and marketing strategy.
The Farm Tour series is part of an ongoing effort from the extension office to help producers with direct market agriculture, ag tourism, and farm diversifying.
"We had an absolute blast and are so thankful for the opportunity from MU Extension to be a part of their Farm Tour Series," said Elizabeth Gibson, owner of 1840 Cattle Co. "It was great getting to meet other amazing ag people and share a little about what we do here."
"Many producers have innovative ideas for adding value to their farms but want to see how others are successfully navigating the challenges and opportunities," Denice Ferguson, MU Extension specialist in ag business said. "These tours provide direct access to producers who are turning ideas into income while creating meaningful connections among agricultural entrepreneurs."
There are two remaining tours in this year's series. Next, Triple H Family Farm, 21385 165th Trail, Marshall, MO, where attendees will find a diversified vegetable operation. That's Thursday, August 20th, at 9 AM. The series concludes at Anne's Acres, 20521 Fordney Road, Lincoln, MO, is a family farm known for its you-pick-it strawberry and blueberry business. That example of agritourism and direct-to-consumer marketing will be September 17th, at 9 AM.
