My husband,
Lester, and I have owned the farm for over 25 years. We raised and showed
Palomino Quarter Horses and had a Angus/ Charlois cow calf operation. 20 Years before it became
vogue we treated the cattle and calves gently whether or not we were remunerated
at the market place for the extra expense and time. We always weaned 45-60
days before we sold calves and used fence line weaning to reduce stress of
cows and calves. All cows and calves were given the protection of vaccines
and the professional services of a veterinarian. We check full term momma
cows -March and April- 3 or 4 times day and night to ensure we are
available to assist if labor is difficult. We don't take sick cows to
market.
Herd bull is a Reg Black Angus with specific
EPD's for calving ease and high weaning weights. The 30 dams/ Momma cows
are Black Angus, white face Angus (Black Baldys)
and Charlois daughters that are crossed with
Angus.
We are business people who love animals and value a good reputation above
money. Our farm animals’ care has never been compromised in order to make a
profit. The cattle are indeed a business to us but we have made our main
living in other ways- vacant land, orange groves and pecan orchards.
My parents, Edna and Bill Hart raised their family in Stuart, Florida
starting in the 1950's. I was born in Florida and graduated from the
University of Louisville in Kentucky. We have a home near Tampa in Port
Richey, Florida and spend 2 weeks in FL then 2 weeks at the farm in Tennessee
every month. YES, even in the winter. Our farm manager is James caring,
responsible, and a partner who works 7 days a week the 2 weeks we are gone.
I am hands on, drive the tractor bush hogging,
deliver calves, weed eat, chain saw, paint fences etc. Junior his father
was our farm manager for 20 years until he retired at 83 yr. old. I am
certified advanced Master Beef Producers and attend many classes and
educational seminars to continually improve the well-being of the farm and
its animals.
Most of our hay, 95 tons a year, comes from Frank Lovell & Alfred
Wilson. Who soil tests and fertilizes their fields. They are meticulous in
planning their hay harvest and getting the hay up dry. We test all hay for
quality and nutrients.
Our Johnson County Agent, Rick Thomason, has known us for 20 years and is a
reference you can call to verify our reputation. I was a volunteer coach
for 4-H and FFA in horse judging. Having a team that represented Tennessee
at National Competition.
I believe God has blessed us with a productive and joyful life. I am
thankful to share it with you.
We thank you for visiting our website and we look forward to seeing you
visit our farm.
