Stewardship and profitability intertwined
On March 5, 175 producers, landowners, and agricultural professionals from six states gathered in Fairview, Oklahoma, not just to attend another event—but to invest in the future of their operations and the land they steward.
“Farm Forward: Enhancing Your Range and Herd” was designed with a clear purpose: Provide education on soil health and sustainable practices that yield profitable returns, long-term productivity and stronger agricultural operations.
Agriculture is evolving. Input costs remain high, weather patterns are unpredictable, and producers are increasingly asked to balance profitability with long-term sustainability. In that environment, education is no longer optional—it is essential. That belief drives Farm Forward OK, a project of Community Action Prosperity Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3) local organization focused on strengthening rural communities through education and opportunity.
As an active member of the grassroots committee behind Farm Forward OK, Major County Economic Development Corporation recognizes that agriculture is the backbone of communities across northwest Oklahoma. Supporting producer education is not just an investment in individual operations—it is an investment in the long-term economic vitality of the region. At its core, Farm Forward OK is about creating space for meaningful conversations, encouraging thoughtful management decisions, and equipping producers with tools they can apply immediately.
As Farm Forward OK Committee member Jared Boehs with Guardian Mineral Management said, “We believe strong farm and ranch operations build strong communities. Farm Forward OK is about investing in education, encouraging stewardship, and helping producers make decisions that are both economically and environmentally sound for the long haul.”
That message was carried throughout the day, beginning with remarks from Jimmy Emmons of the Natural Resources Conservation Service. His perspective, rooted in both policy and personal experience as a producer, emphasized the importance of soil health and practical, producer-led solutions. Keynote speaker Kit Pharo challenged attendees to rethink conventional approaches because “what has worked so well the last 20 years, won’t work for the next 20 years”, according to Pharo. Cost of inputs for cow-calf producers doubled between 2010 and 2024—and there’s no sign the trends will be reversed. As Pharo noted, “Agriculture that is not profitable and enjoyable will never be sustainable.”
Profitability and stewardship working together became a central theme. Healthy soil supports productive forage, which supports livestock performance and, ultimately, the financial sustainability of an operation. The afternoon field session brought those concepts to life.
Producers engaged directly with Emmons and NRCS staff, observing soil structure, water infiltration, and root development firsthand. Seeing these principles in action reinforced the value of adaptive grazing and soil-focused management practices.
Just as important were the conversations happening beyond the formal agenda. With 20 vendors and producers representing multiple states, the event created space for shared learning. Attendees exchanged ideas, discussed challenges, and built connections that extend far beyond a single event.
The success of Farm Forward OK also reflects the strength of collaboration within rural communities. The event was supported by 27 partners, including Title Sponsor, Fairview Farm and Ranch, demonstrating a shared commitment to agricultural education and economic vitality.
Events like Farm Forward OK matter because they meet producers where they are—offering practical, credible information in a rapidly changing industry.
As Boehs said, “Our goal is to give producers information they can use, whether that’s something they implement tomorrow or something that shifts their thinking long-term.” The strong turnout and multi-state participation signal a growing demand for this kind of programming. Producers are not just looking for information, they are looking for insight, connection, and a path forward.
Farm Forward OK will continue to be a catalyst in bringing diverse and progressive agricultural education through future events (quarterly breakfasts as well as full day events) with a clear focus on empowering producers to leave a profitable, sustaining legacy for the following generations that will shape the future of agriculture.
JaNae Barnard, Executive Director of Major County Economic Development Corporation, can be reached via phone at 580-227-2512; or email at [email protected].
