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MO Star FFA farmer highlights innovation, resilience in growing cattle operation

The Missouri Star FFA Farmer says success for her cattle business goes beyond making sound management decisions.

Beau Ann Graves from the Chillicothe FFA Chapter tells Brownfield she’s discovered resilience and having the right people on your team matters.

“I’ve learned to 100% believe in myself, and to lean on people around you.”

Graves owns and operates a cattle business in northern Missouri raising and marketing multiple cattle breeds including Angus, Hereford, Maine-Anjou and miniature Hereford and crossbred cattle.

She has been using In Vitro Fertilization to improve herd genetics, and the quality of livestock sold.

“Through the Embryo Transfer program, I’ve been able to drastically improve not only my genetics, but also the quality of livestock that I sell, not only for in the show ring, but also for other operations to build upon.”

She plans to attend Redlands Community College to study animal science and continue to expand her family’s cattle operation.

Other Star award winners include the Star in Agriscience – Ellie Samek from Bolivar, the Star in Agribusiness – Quin Staten from Tarkio, and the Star Placement – Gio Ubaldo from Tipton.

Hear Brownfield’s interview with Beau Ann Graves from Chillicothe.

Hear Brownfield’s interview with Ellie Samek from Bolivar.

Hear Brownfield’s interview with Quin Staten from Tarkio.

Hear Brownfield’s interview with Gio Ubaldo from Tipton.