By Blake Jackson
Tad and Kim Carnahan, recent transplants from Colorado to Missouri, made the University of Missouri Extension one of their first stops after settling in.
Seeking guidance for their new cattle and forage operation, they connected with University of Missouri Extension livestock specialist Zac Erwin and agronomy specialist Valerie Tate.
For the Carnahans, lifelong learners by nature, the local extension office became a hub of knowledge. “We try to absorb everything,” Tad shared.
Having grown up on a ranch in Colorado, Tad was accustomed to utilising extension services. His family made regular visits to the county office for advice on ranching improvements, gardening tips, and participating in 4-H activities.
Kim, in contrast, had no background in agriculture until meeting Tad, learning most of what she knows about farming through him and extension resources.
It was a natural choice for the Carnahans to turn to MU Extension when they purchased a 530-acre farm in northeastern Missouri, renting an additional 970 acres.
Erwin remarked, “Tad is someone who asks insightful questions and applies the information effectively, which has contributed greatly to their success.”
Adjusting to Missouri’s agricultural landscape presented challenges, as ranching conditions differ significantly from Colorado.
To ease the transition, the Carnahans sought support from MU Extension centers and the Cornett Farm and Forage Systems Research Center. They attended grazing schools offered by MU Extension and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), where they learned about management-intensive grazing (MIG).
This approach, involving rotational grazing, helps preserve grass health, extends the grazing season, and ensures cattle have consistent access to nutritious feed.
The Carnahans embraced Missouri’s longer grazing season and fertile soils, which contrasted with the rocky terrain and shorter growing season they left behind.
To implement MIG, they cleared oak trees strategically, created shade for their herd, and improved water access with financial support from NRCS and state programs.
Their infrastructure now includes six ponds, nine water tanks, and extensive fencing to manage 17 paddocks.
Their efforts have expanded to include erosion control, hay production, and introducing drought-tolerant warm-season grasses, which also benefit local wildlife.
Active participants in the agricultural community, the Carnahans serve on the MU Extension Council and the Missouri Livestock Symposium committee, setting an inspiring example of how extension resources can transform farming practices.
Photo Credit: university-of-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Business, Livestock