Missouri
See how Missouri beef farmers and ranchers are rethinking the ranch to raise sustainable beef through land-saving, wildlife-preserving, and award-winning environmental efforts.
MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE BEEF
Taking care of the land is a family tradition on this Missouri farm
Eckenfels Farm has raised cattle since 1851, making caring for the land more than a practice, but a family tradition. Because of this, it is vitally important to the Eckenfels family to have a farm they can pass down to their next generations. The family was a pioneer in the implementation of rotational grazing, a practice that today has maximized their pasture and forage growth. The family has also installed fencing to protect wooded areas and ponds on their property, and has set aside some of their land for a protected quail habitat. As a clear indicator for their passion in preserving the land, Robert Eckenfels has served as Chair of the Missouri County Soil and Water Conservation Districts since 2002. Robert is also always willing to talk to others about farming, truly embracing the credo of the Show Me State. For their sustainability practices, Eckenfels Farm was awarded the prestigious Environmental Stewardship Award (ESAP).
"There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a cow with a new baby calf, or planting a crop and watching it grow." - Robert Eckenfels, Owner, Eckenfels Farm
Meet More Members of the Beef Community:
Kalena Bruce
Missouri rancher, Kalena Bruce, wears many hats: mother, rancher and accountant. Kalena is a 5th generation rancher working on the land her family has been ranching since the Civil War in Stockton, Missouri. Her days are long but her outlook on life is very bright as she raises quality beef for familiess around the world. Through the trials and tribulations of living on a ranch, Kalena has learned the importance of having perseverance and is passing those life lessons along to her daughter.
raising beef in missouri
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. Today, there are more than 4.3 million cattle and over 53,000 cattle farms and ranches in Missouri. Learn more about Missouri's beef farmers and ranchers who are raising beef from pasture to plate.
popular Missouri-inspired recipes
GRILLED T-BONE STEAKS WITH BBQ RUB
This could be called beef at its best. A simple rub including chili powder, garlic and brown sugar adds that special touch.
ST. LOUIS BURGERS
There's a new burger in town! Try our St. Louis burger, featuring Ground Beef, cheese ravioli, marinara sauce and ricotta cheese.
Discover more great beef Recipes
favorite fall recipes
As the days get shorter and the weather turns colder, it’s time to fall in love with these Fall recipes. With Chili, Pot Roasts and much more, you’ll find the perfect autumn meal.
tailgating treasures
The biggest games of the year deserve the best recipes. Whether the tailgate is in the parking lot, backyard, or home kitchen you'll be the MVP with these great tailgating recipes.
Gotta Try Beef Chilis
It’s hard to deny that a warm, savory bowl of chili brings a certain nostalgia to the table. Whether it’s a weekly tradition or a special occasion dish, chili is one of our favorite ways to warm the soul. Discover a few of our tastiest, coziest beef chili recipes.
missouri fact
Missouri farms cover over 60% of the state's total land acreage and support many of the state's agricultural indsutries like soybeans, corn, cattle, hogs, and turkeys.
rethink the ranch
See how beef farmers and ranchers around the country are implementing land-saving, wildlife-preserving, and award-winning environmental efforts.
Environmental Stewardship Award
The Environmental Stewardship Award has annually recognized the outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of U.S. cattle producers from across the nation.
Beef Quality Assurance
The Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program trains farmers and ranchers on best practice cattle management techniques to ensure their animals and the environment are cared for.
missouri beef industry council
Learn more about the Missouri Beef Industry Council and the work they do within the state.