Farm & Ranch
Dry Valley Dairy
By Jessica Bartel, editor
In today’s society it has become more important for the agriculture industry to educate its consumers. The head of the household, mother, makes the decisions on what her family eats and drinks. It’s become more apparent that these super-moms are making more healthy-conscious decisions for their family. At Dry Valley Dairy, Charles Steadham and his family make the effort to cater to those looking for un-pasteurized milk and grass fed beef.
In March of 2011 the Steadhams started milking Jersey cows and in June of that same year they started selling their milk. Prior to that, the Steadhams milked Holsteins and sold their milk commercially for 20 years. Selling 80-100 gallons per day, the Steadhams sell fresh raw milk from pastured Jersey cows. Raw milk, as Charles put it is, “Just the way it came from the cow! Jesus made milk!”Raw milk is not pasteurized with cream and butterfat still intact. Butterfat contains vitamins A and D needed for absorption of calcium and protein found in the water fraction of milk. Without them, protein and calcium are more difficult to utilize.
Butterfat is rich in short and medium chain fatty acids, which protect against disease and stimulate the immune system. To read more pick up the September 2014 issue of North Texas Farm & Ranch.
Texas Agriculture Memorial Day is a day to remember the lives and honor the sacrifices of Texas farmers and ranchers who contribute so much to our state and our economy.
On Nov. 21, 2022, the Texas Department of Agriculture and Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller hosted the annual event at the State Capitol where one of North Texas’ own was recognized.
Jake Toler grew up in Forestburg, Texas, and found a love of agriculture at an early age, following in his father’s footsteps. He pursued his passion as he worked hard to build a life as a rancher, but that dream was cut tragically short when he lost his life in a tractor accident at the age of 24. His family hopes by spreading awareness of the event, others might have their loved ones honored.
Jake Toler
Jake was born on April 8, 1996, the son of Floyd and Patricia Toler and became the older brother to one sister, Jodi. As a youngster, he quickly fell in love with agriculture, and couldn’t get enough of helping his dad.
“When he wasn’t in school, he was with me,” Floyd recalled. “He had so much to offer this world.”
He was active in both 4-H and FFA, holding an officer position from third grade through his senior year and was presented several scholarships and awards. Conservation was important to Jake, and he attended the Texas Brigades Bass and Bobwhite camps for youth. He could even operate a truck or tractor from an early age. His dad’s lifelong friend, Mark Colley, who Jake referred to as Uncle Mark, was often part of the trio that spent their days farming and ranching.
To read more, pick up a copy of the June issue of NTFR Magazine. To subscribe call 940-872-5922.
By Jared Groce
April was a slow month for closings on rural real estate in our area. There was a lot of activity with showings and negotiations, but the actual number of closed transactions was significantly lower than usual. I guess the never-ending turmoil of our nation has everyone in limbo as to what to do right now.
The lenders are seeing more interest from buyers starting the purchase process right now, and we are also seeing more inventory become available on the market. The market is definitely not stagnate, in spite of the low number of closings in April. Be sure to look closely at your property tax appraisal notice and make sure that you agree with it, and follow the proper steps to contest them if you don’t.
To read more, pick up a copy of the June issue of NTFR Magazine. To subscribe call 940-872-5922.
By Tressa Lawrence
After an exceptionally snowy winter, ranchers across the north are excited for green grass and healthy calves.
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