MU Extension Launches Field to Consumer Farm Tour Series at 1840 Cattle Co.

GOWER, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension welcomed agricultural entrepreneurs, producers and community members to the first stop in the new Field to Consumer Farm Tour Series on Aug. 6 at 1840 Cattle Co. near Gower, Missouri.

The tour provided participants with an up-close look at how a family-operated beef business moves its product from pasture to plate while creating value through direct-to-consumer marketing. Attendees learned firsthand about production practices, business planning, risk management, recordkeeping and marketing strategies that support a profitable value-added agricultural enterprise.

The Field to Consumer Farm Tour Series is part of ongoing educational efforts led by MU Extension Agricultural Business and Policy specialists to help Missouri producers explore opportunities in direct marketing, value-added agriculture, agritourism and farm diversification. The series is supported through funding from the Patterson Family Foundation, which helps expand technical assistance and educational programming for agricultural food businesses across the region.

"We had an absolute blast and are so thankful for the opportunity from MU Extension to be a part of their Farm Tour Series," said Elizabeth Gibson, owner of 1840 Cattle Co. "It was great getting to meet other amazing ag people and share a little about what we do here at 1840 Cattle Co."

Gibson also expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort behind the event.

"Thanks to you and your colleagues for spearheading such a wonderful farm tour," she said.

According to Denice Ferguson, MU Extension field specialist in agricultural business and policy, the tours are designed to connect producers with practical information and real-world examples of successful agricultural enterprises.

"Many producers have innovative ideas for adding value to their farms but want to see how others are successfully navigating the challenges and opportunities," Ferguson said. "These tours provide direct access to producers who are turning ideas into income while creating meaningful connections among agricultural entrepreneurs."

In addition to educational programming, MU Extension specialists continue to provide one-on-one technical assistance to agricultural food businesses throughout Missouri. Assistance includes business planning, enterprise analysis, financial management, market development, risk management and evaluating opportunities for diversification and value-added agriculture.

The one remaining tour in the 2025 Field to Consumer Farm Tour Series will continue showcasing successful Missouri farm businesses:

Anne's Acres

Sept. 17, 9-11 a.m. 20521 Fordney Rd., Lincoln, MO 65338

Participants will tour a family-owned farm known for its u-pick strawberry and blueberry operation and learn about agritourism and direct-to-consumer marketing strategies.

Registration is $10 per workshop, and attendance is limited. To learn more or register for upcoming tours, visit https://extension.missouri.edu/events/field-to-consumer-farm-tours or contact the Buchanan County Extension Center at (816) 279-1691.