Missouri Neighbors

Tim Bartkoski has learned a lot. He had some sheep when he was younger, and years later when his daughters wanted animals to show in 4-H, he knew from experience how much easier sheep are to care for and show than a larger animal, so he got back into the sheep business. That was 30 years ago.

Dr. Art Bryant is a man of strong convictions, an important characteristic for a Laclede County cattleman and veterinarian who has worked with Border Collies for over 25 years. “I like cows, Border Collies and red heads,” Art Bryant said while casting a smile in Nancy’s direction, his red-headed wife. She stayed busy answering his constantly ringing office phone.

Becky and Rod Reid’s nephew, Tom Luthy III loved watching the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) on television at his grandparents’ house in Lebanon, Mo., while growing up. Unlike a lot of little boys who left those dreams in childhood, he found a way to follow that dream.

The tales that Jerry Crownover documents in his column Life is Simple have brought Ozarks farmers laughs throughout the years and stories to be passed on at local coffee shops in every small town. Friends getting their tractors stuck in frozen ponds, dead cows sliding down the hill or even memories of what he learned as an agriculture teacher about the real way to farm – Jerry has shared much insight about rural life and the changes in the industry. But, what about the man behind Life is Simple?

Kenneth Gossard’s Texas County sheep wasn’t something that he thought would stick around, after moving to Princeton, N.J. “I am a manager on a dairy, sheep and hog farm there, working with the dairy and consulting for possible dairy goats they are looking at.” But, even though he lives in New Jersey the majority of the time, he still manages his flock near Willow Springs, Mo. “Basically I come back a couple times of year, specifically for the sheep,” Kenneth said. He raises the sheep for the wool and as freezer lambs.

Across the Ozarks, many producers are working hard studying the newest technology and the latest trends, doing whatever they can to get the most out of their herds, and they reap the benefits. However, there are also producers pursuing a different path, and they are also richly rewarded for their efforts. Ron and Shirley Peckman of Prairie Creek Ranch fall into this category.

Married 40 years, Rob and Peggy Appleby have lived on their 120-acre farm near Conway, Mo., for the past 12 years. Around 80 head of Simmental and Gelbvieh cattle roam the family farm.

"Twenty years ago, I intended to raise chickens until I retired,” said David Brittenham of Purdy, Mo. “Ten years ago I began worrying about the industry, and my fear today is that my houses will be deemed obsolete before I can retire.”

People raise livestock for many different reasons. Some keep animals around because they are what they grew up with, while others use them to take advantage of their land or resources. Some people have livestock for a hobby or something to do in their free time, and some people buy animals because they really want them, and then, their animals become their passion.

Long before the temperature mellows, the grass greens and buds begin, Brad Ketterhagen has been preparing for spring's arrival.