Commitment and Care Drive the Rieff Cattle Operation
GLENCOE, OKLA. – Kevin and Michelle Rieff have spent years building more than a cattle herd; they’ve created a legacy built on strong family values, faith, and a commitment to high-quality, sustainable agriculture.
Their hard work goes beyond mere effort—it’s rooted in a true commitment to raising top-notch livestock and running a sustainable farm. They began farming in Springdale, Arkansas, with just 25 to 30 cows, while they balanced full-time jobs off the farm. Kevin worked as a loan officer, and Michelle worked in education.
Kevin reflected on the influences that shaped their approach to agriculture remembering the early stages of their operation.
“Farming has always been a significant part of our lives, even before we moved to the Ozarks,” Kevin said. “I learned everything from patience and that the job is never done. Michelle and I actually met through the Future Farmers of America, united by our love for cattle. Our dream was to create a farm where family, cattle, and land care could flourish something shaped by our own backgrounds.”
Their goal was straightforward: keep the herd manageable and emphasize quality over quantity, ensuring they raised healthy, productive cattle. Every decision they made, from breeding to pasture management, was carefully considered with a long-term vision in mind.
They established their herd using Angus and Simmental genetics. Each day was guided by a purposeful schedule of morning herd checks, afternoon pasture management, and evening breeding planning. Weekends became family-centered, with time spent washing heifers, working cattle, and celebrating wins at livestock shows.
When their kids left home, the Rieffs made a big move. Three years ago, they relocated their operation to Oklahoma, taking their herd with them and shifting their focus to advanced breeding methods.
Now, Kevin oversees embryo transfers, primarily using sexed heifer embryos, implanted in recipient cows to ensure high-quality calves. They strategically time calving from January through March to ensure that every season is manageable, and each calf has the best possible start.
“Moving to Oklahoma has given us the space and flexibility to really focus on what we love most: raising strong, healthy cattle,” Kevin said. “I can dedicate my time to maintaining herd health, monitoring vaccinations, parasite control, soil management, and feeding strategies to ensure optimal animal health and welfare.”
On most days, the rhythm of the farm speaks for itself. You’ll find Kevin checking water tanks or moving cattle before the sun goes down, while Michelle keeps track of feed inventories and pasture rotations. It’s steady, honest work, the kind that starts before daylight and ends only when everything is done.
While Kevin and Michelle also have great equipment, handling facilities, and water systems to keep things running smoothly, it’s their attention to detail that genuinely drives the farm’s success.
They spend long days evaluating pastures, fixing fences, overseeing breeding programs, and checking on calves.
“Our pastures are our greatest asset,” Michelle said. “Healthy land means healthy cows, and we treat it that way by rotating grazing, testing soil, and planning for the long haul.”
The Rieffs are also active in the livestock community beyond their own farm. Kevin has held roles as beef cattle superintendent at the Arkansas State Fair, served as leader of the Town and Country 4-H club in Bentonville, and as secretary of the Arkansas Angus Association. Meanwhile, Michelle, a former president of the American Angus Auxiliary, continues to lead the Arkansas Junior Cattlemen’s Association – a youth group with around 200 members – and chairs a national committee. Their experience makes them valuable mentors to young exhibitors, sharing lessons from their own 4-H journeys.
Having served on Cattleman’s association board with the Rieff’s, Tyler Davis said he considers Kevin and Michelle real assets to not only their local community but the overall cattle community.
“Kevin and Michelle are among the most dedicated farmers I’ve met,” Tyler said. “Their dedication to their herd, quality breeding and responsible land management sets the standard for everyone.”
Today, the rhythm of their operation is quieter but more deeply rooted in experience, purpose, and an understanding of what it takes to keep a herd thriving. Kevin and Michelle aren’t chasing trends or recognition; they’re simply refining the work they’ve always believed in. Their story isn’t about expansion or scale, but about intention. They continue shaping the next chapter of their farm. The strength of what they’ve built is clear: a place where good cattle, good land, and good people grow together.
