- Odin, MN
Haley Ammann-Ekstrom
6th Generation Farmer, Wife, + Ag Advocate
I am a sixth generation cattle farmer, the first female of those six generations which I’m very proud of! My husband and I bought the family farm where the operation is located in southern Minnesota. What was once a 3000 head feedlot has now been converted to cow/calf operation. My husband, father and I manage the herd and crops while we all work full time off the farm jobs as well. It keeps us busy, but it’s fulfilling work to be able to farm on the same soil and ground that my ancestors once did and to create something new and start new adventures. This year is the first year of our beef sold directly to consumers – we are very excited for this opportunity!
Do you farm with family?
Yes! My husband, father, and I all have active roles on the farm- and we all work off the farm as well.
What are your hobbies?
Gardening, hanging out with our golden retriever Jax, reading books, vacations up to northern Minnesota and going to cattle shows.
Why is sharing information about agriculture and farming important to you?
It’s important that the public, consumers, and other producers know the why behind our mission. We chose to continue farming and raising cattle because it’s a rewarding life, to be able to feed the rest of the nation is a big task and one we don’t take lightly. We are fortunate to be able to be called stewards of this land, to raise a delicious meat product that fuels people, and just grateful for the conversations we get to have with consumers. It takes everyone to support the way of life, so having people understand that is vital to our success. Without them we wouldn’t have a business and wouldn’t be able to continue this family farm.
Tell us a quick story from the farm.
In 1903 the farm was founded, where it started as a 3000 head feedlot farm that consisted of Herefords. Fast forward to my dad and grandpa, they converted it to a cow calf of Limousine breeds. And now, we run a cow calf business made up of angus and Simmental. It’s fun to see how each generation has shifted the business and made it their own!
WE ARE COMMONGROUND –
