Mississippi
See how beef farmers and ranchers in Mississippi are raising sustainable beef through award-winning environmental efforts.
MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE BEEF
Southern Cross Farm implements and teaches others sustainability practices
Southern Cross Farm in Eupora, Mississippi was started in 2005 by Gary and Nancy Jackson. The farm focuses on a "one health" model where the plants, animals and humans can all coexist and benefit from one another. The farm uses soil samples to help understand the health of the land, which in turn affects the health and nutrition of the cattle. Using sustainability best practices that are research-based and appropriate for their specific land, Southern Cross Farms has steadily improved the conditions on their outfit. Nancy is a veterinarian specializing in food and animal medicine and Gary is an educator at a Mississippi State University extension program. Together, they are able to take their learnings and best practices and help other farmers in their area apply it to their land. For their sustainability practices, Southern Cross Farms was awarded the prestigious Environmental Stewardship Award (ESAP).
"My hope for the future is that this land stays productive, and is cared for and is loved. I do feel that our place is making a difference." - Nancy Jackson, Owner, Southern Cross Farms
Meet More Members of the Beef Community:
Brandi Karisch
Brandi Karisch, PhD, lives in Starkville, Mississippi with her husband, Matt and two boys on their cattle ranch, MBK Cattle. Along with being an animal science professor, a cattle rancher and a mom, Brandi serves as a state co-coordinator for the Beef Quality Assurance program. In this role, she travels around the state helping to educate other beef farmers and ranchers on best practices for raising cattle to produce the safest and most wholesome beef possible.
Learn more about Brandi Karisch >
raising beef in mississippi
Raising beef is a complex process, but throughout the entire journey, one thing remains constant – the shared commitment to raising cattle in a safe, humane and environmentally sustainable way by using the latest technology and resources. Today, there are more than 920,000 cattle and over 15,000 cattle farms in Mississippi. Learn more about Mississippi's beef farmers and ranchers who are raising beef from pasture to plate.
popular mississippi-inspired recipes
CAJUN-STYLE STEAK AND GRITS
Nothing beats the flavor of Cajun-seasoned rubbed Sirloin Steaks and grits with Cheddar cheese. Satisfying. Mouthwatering. Delicious!
ESPRESSO-BOURBON STEAKS WITH MASHED SWEET POTATOES
Juicy Tenderloin Steaks are served with a unique Espresso-Bourbon sauce. To round it out, serve with mashed sweet potatoes and green beans for a delicious Southern-inspired meal.
mississippi fact
Mississippi has a diverse agriculture industry including beef, chicken, sweet potatoes and peanuts.
Discover More State Stories
See how beef farmers and ranchers around the country are implementing land-saving, wildlife-preserving, and award-winning environmental efforts.
beef sustainability
cattlemen and the environment
Today beef is produced using fewer resources than ever before. But conservation is never complete; ranchers work hard to feed a growing population, while, at the same time, reduce water use, care for the land, and protect the environment.
Mississippi beef council
Learn more about the Mississippi Beef Council and the work they do within the state.