“Life on a Kansas Cattle Ranch” – Interview with Kansas Cattlewoman, Debbie Lyons-Blythe

Last week, while attending the Animal Agriculture Alliance Stakeholders Summit, Cattle Call editor and Public Relations Chair, Jesse Bussard, had the opportunity to meet with Kansas cattlewoman, Debbie Lyons-Blythe.  Debbie, her husband, Duane Blythe, and their 5 children raise black Angus cattle in the Kansas Flint Hills.

What is your family’s history with the cattle industry?

I grew up on an Angus ranch near Manhattan, KS. My sister and I we’re both very involved on the family ranch and we both own cattle with our own families today! My husband and I live on the land that his family homesteaded in 1890. He also grew up farming and we work as a team with our five kids on our ranch.

Why do you think the beef industry is important for Kansas? the nation? the world?

The Kansas Flint Hills are perfect cow country. The state’s economy is dependent on the beef industry. In fact, the nation’s economy is very reflective of the health of the ag economy. In our global society, we now are aware of corn prices in other countries, as well as our local grain elevator. The weather or political situation in other countries affects the price of beef in our local Kansas sale barn.

How are you involved with your state/national cattlemen’s organizations? Why are you involved?

I am currently chairman of the Policy and Resolutions committee at the Kansas Livestock Association. I’ve been the chairman of the Natural Resources committee and a county director as well. I believe that it is important to be involved on a state and national level in order to have a voice in legislation that affects agriculture. My family has a long history of getting involved and my children are already focused on state and national ag organization involvement. I have attended NCBA conventions for years. It is a great opportunity for learning, having your voice heard and for networking.

What types of beef advocacy do you participate in?

I advocate on many levels, every day. I host farm tours, sponsor farm to fork day at our school, talk to non ag groups and visit with my legislators frequently. I also advocate online through a blog titled Life on a Kansas Cattle Ranch. I use Twitter and Facebook as well as YouTube to promote my blog.

What is one of the most important things you’ve learned about beef cattle production while you’ve been involved in the industry?

One of the industry’s greatest strengths is the people! Farmers and ranchers are an amazing breed! Resilient, committed, and hard working, we are also friendly and willing to lend a hand. The industry is ever changing, but the people remain the same dedicated cowboys and cowgirls!

What do you think are the top 3 issues facing young cattlmen and cattlewomen today?

Over-regulation of agriculture both in the legislature and administration. This problem stems from another problem: the lack of understanding of the general public about agriculture. The disconnect that most people have from their food can lead to misconceptions and myths being accepted as fact that can lead to consumers making poor decisions about their food purchases and legislators passing laws that are inappropriate and unnecessary and place a burden on farmers and ranchers. In addition, another problem that concerns me is the lack of cohesiveness and understanding some people have for one another. This dilutes our voice and causes confusion. I urge both sides to come together and find common ground. We can’t always agree but we can compromise.

Do you have any advice for young producers?

Get involved! Your county, state and national ag organizations are valuable resources for information as well as the opportunity to connect with established producers. Find a mentor, make friends with your banker and visit your extension office frequently!

If you’d like to learn more about Debbie’s ranch you can visit Blythe Angus’ website.  You can also find Debbie on Twitter and her blog’s Facebook fan page.  And before you leave watch this great I Am Angus video featuring Debbie!