National Cattlemen ’ s Beef Association
DECEMBER 2024 | Vol . 41 , No . 2 | NCBA . org
THRIVING FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY
Whether it is called a century , centennial or centenary , 100 years is a long time . When a farm or ranch has been in operation for that long , especially with the same family at the helm , it is something to celebrate . Below are the stories of two cattle operations that have reached this prestigious milestone .
What started as a small hobby farm to sustain one family in 1884 , has grown to a diversified 1,500- acre , multi-generational farm and feedlot located one hour southeast of Indianapolis in Batesville , Indiana . Today , Scott Kreuzman , his brother , Kevin , their wives and children , along with their father , Bob Kreuzman , and uncle , Sam Kreuzman , manage the thriving business — Kreuzman Farms LLC .
When the farm began in 1884 , growing crops and raising animals for the family to survive was the main goal , but cattle have always been part of the farm ’ s history . When Scott ’ s dad and uncle took over the family operation generations later , they expanded the commercial cattle herd to about 75 cow-calf pairs . In the 1980s they built a small feedlot , then when Scott and Kevin became more involved 15 years ago , they focused on their passion for show cattle . They slimmed down the commercial herd and focused on providing families with affordable , high-quality show calves and replacement females .
Today , Kreuzman Farm grows corn , soybeans , wheat and hay , along with raising Simmental / Angus show cattle and operating the feedlot . They have also expanded their business to include selling freezer beef directly to consumers .
Scott was interested in having a connection with the local community and started selling beef to family and friends . Through word of mouth , they now sell 15-20 head per year to local families as halves , quarters and retail packs .
“ Right now , there are more people wanting to buy the beef than we have supply , and I ’ d love to expand in the future ,” Scott said . “ I enjoy engaging with customers and answering their questions about how cattle are raised .”
In 2015 , Kreuzman Farm was recognized as a Hoosier Homestead by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture . To be named a Hoosier Homestead in Indiana , farms must be owned by the same family for at least 100 consecutive years and consist of more than 20 acres or produce more than $ 1,000 in agricultural products per year . Farms submit applications for consideration , and awards are presented twice each year .
“ It is an honor to be a Hoosier Homestead , and I ’ m looking forward to applying for the Sesquicentennial recognition when our farm turns 150 in 2034 ,” Scott said .
Scott Kreuzman and his family have farmed in Indiana for more than 100 years .
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BEEF FOR BACKPACKS | PG . 9
Wyoming cattle producers are caring for their communities by donating beef for a youth backpack program initiated by Wyoming ’ s First Lady .
PART 2 : MEASUREMENT & YIELD | PG . 12
Beef cattle size and carcasses have changed since Yield Grades were established . Research is examining how Yield Grades need to change to match cattle .
MANAGING WILDLIFE & PEST IMPACTS | PG . 14
Practical steps to take to keep your cattle healthy amongst wildlife and pests .