We've partnered with the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance (read more here) to share stories of, in a series of videos, what it's like to run a farm or ranch in the U.S. today.
Today: Our Partnerships Editor Samantha Weiss-Hills visited Bear Valley Ranch in California to find out a little more about what it's really like to be a cattle rancher.
Our Partnerships Editor Samantha Weiss-Hills met a real, live cowboy. If you live in a city, it's easy to forget that cowboys aren't just a figment of American Westerns—they're real (and they prefer to be called cattle ranchers), and they work really hard to give a good life to their herds of cattle. Kevin Kester is a fifth-generation cattle rancher; he and his wife June Kester farm on the same land in Parkfield, California, that Kevin's family has been farming since 1867.
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Over the course of the day, during which Sam toured the ranch, met some cows, and ate lunch (steak, of course) with Kevin and June, she was struck by Kevin's connection to the land; he cares deeply for maintaining it well so that his herd of cattle can roam around on it, which they do for most of their lives—which contributes to how good the meat ultimately tastes, even without much seasoning. She was also excited to learn that Kevin and his family keep a vineyard on part of the land, a lucky (and delicious) source of additional income, especially as California continues to experience a severe drought.
Let the farmers speak for themselves—and learn more about what they really do—by watching the video.
We've partnered with the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance (read more here) to share stories of, in a series of videos, what it's like to run a farm or ranch in the U.S. today.
What a great story. Farmers and Ranchers are so important to our economy and our country. The dedication and respect they have for their animals and the land is truly admirable. Thank you Food 52 for recognizing these amazing families and sharing with us.
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