I was recently asked by Progressive Cattleman to write a piece that would be part of a feature series focused on young people making a future in ranching and the cattle business. I, along with Ryan Goodman and Abby Grisedale, shared about my path into agriculture and the passions driving me forward into what many would say is uncharted waters in farming and ranching. Read more in my post below and be sure to follow the links to read my entire article and also those by Ryan and Abby.
Research today helps sustain ranching for tomorrow
by Jesse Bussard
I’m what you might call an unconventional cattlewoman. When I tell folks I hail from south-central Pennsylvania, cattle country isn’t the first thing they think of.
They find it hard to believe that Pennsylvania ranks 20th in the nation for beef production and is home to approximately 1.6 million head of cattle.
My family has a long history in agriculture – though cattle haven’t always been our main focus, it has always been a part of the farming operation.
Both my grandfathers raised cattle. Growing up, I can remember Grandma Bussard telling me stories of Grandpa’s stockmanship skills and how it wasn’t uncommon for him to be found in the pasture walking through his purebred Angus herd.
That being so, cattle haven’t always been my main interest in life (horses were my first love). It wasn’t until I attended college at Penn State University that the cattle addiction took hold of me. There I became active in Block & Bridle Club and eventually helped form the first ever chapter of Collegiate Cattlewomen on our campus.
It was through involvement in these clubs, my animal science and agronomy courses, and some very influential professors, that I realized the cattle industry was where I needed to forge my path.
Head over to Progressive Cattleman to read the entire feature article.
- Ryan Goodman’s feature article “Bright opportunity for the milennial generation”
- Abby Grisedale’s feature article “Protecting ‘The Cowboy Code’ and sustainability”
May 25, 2012 at 8:19 AM
Thanks for including a link to my story as well. It’s great to see a trade magazine taking note of our younger generation with a full series of Features.
May 25, 2012 at 8:20 AM
Of course, I included a link to your story and Abby’s as well. It was only the right thing to do. We were all asked to share our viewpoints on the topic. You’re welcome!
May 25, 2012 at 11:54 AM
Insightful and some good recommended reads, as usual!