“I think it’s all just a balancing act and just trying to put a pencil to it. We do a lot of penciling because we’re new at this, we’re figuring it out. So what works for our neighbor may not work for us because they’re in a different situation than we are and that’s ok.”  

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jess Trask of Perigo Hay and Cattle. Jess shared about her experience on her family’s hay farm and why they decided to get involved in the cattle industry. Not having a background in cattle, Jess had quite the learning curve to figuring out how to manage their cattle operation. Jess also talked about the importance in learning and always being open to learn new things and adapt. Getting stuck in traditions or how things are always done can be dangerous for a farm or ranch’s success. Jess dropped an exclusive look into a new project they have in the works!   

Don’t forget to join our Facebook group, Farming On Purpose, to enter for our one year anniversary giveaways, check out our merch for the podcast, to share your stories, and support other farmers and ranchers.  

Jess’s parents moved from California to Nevada in the early 2000s to start a hay farm when she was in high school. In 2015, Jess decided to move home to start managing the family cattle ranch. Jess didn't grow up around cows, so it has all been a huge learning curve, but Jess dove in head first: even going back to school to get her Masters in Cattle Nutrition in 2020 (graduating in 2022), along with starting up their direct-to-consumer beef program in 2020. Jess takes great pride in the work she does and she truly loves it.  

 If you are interested in connecting with Jess, visit her Instagram or website.  

At a glance:

How hay farmers came to have a hay and cattle operation.

Getting their angus cattle operation verified.

Not letting your family farm become a statistic.

Diversifying the ranch for success.

A sneak peek into what new endeavor Jess and her husband are cooking up!

#1 Collaborating for Progress in Ranching with Cassidy Johnston

#5 Tips for Managing your Mindset as a Young Producer

#31 Expanding Local Food Businesses and Food Education with Bruce's Bullseye Farms

I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the stories of agriculture from generations past, preserving the skills and lessons learned along the way, and ensuring the best of that is passed onto those who will continue to lead the way into the future of production agriculture.

I’m so glad you’re here and I hope you’ll take a moment to join the conversation with me and other listeners on social media. 

Connect with me on Instagram @wrightatthemoment, Facebook, and TikTok.