- Blackduck, MN
Rachel Gray
5th generation farmer, wife, mother and grandmother
I farm with my parents and son on our family farm where we run a heifer development business – meaning we purchase top end replacement heifers and breed them. Our mission is to raise cattle on grass, improve soil and water quality and pass this farm to the next generation.
Do you farm with family?
Yes, My Dad and Son both farm with me. My husband works overseas and helps when he can. We are so lucky to be able to work together and include Nick’s kids whenever possible.
What are your hobbies?
Reading, Travel, Family Time
Why is sharing information about agriculture and farming important to you?
As a teacher, I saw how many children and families did not understand the process of food production. When I left teaching and began to farm, I wanted to help educate people about food and farming. I feel that hearing from a farmer can really allow people to get a firsthand experience and having a personal connection can open up dialogue to allow people to ask questions that they may not have been able to.
Tell us a quick story from the farm.
We have been farming here for 5 generations. My granddaughter is the 6th generation now. I went to college to become a teacher and taught for 14 years. I knew that I always wanted to farm and raise cattle. I am fortunate that I was able to come back to the farm and making a living here. I think my favorite part of our farm story is that my Dad has always been very progressive. He knewmade a great decision to turn crop land into rotational grazing pastures. He looked at the land we have and saw that we could grow great grasses and use cattle to harvest that grass. Cattle are amazing at upcycling! They can take the nutrients harnessed by photosynthesis and convert that into a usable protein for people! My dad has passed that progressive business on to me which allowed us to transition into heifer development. He and I talk a lot about how to best utilize the land and resources that we have to be sustainable. Our mission is to raise cattle on grass, improve soil and water quality and pass this farm to the next generation.
WE ARE COMMONGROUND –
