“The farmer has to be an optimist or he wouldn’t still be a farmer.” — Will Rogers

Farming in Missouri is more than a profession—it’s a way of life, deeply rooted in tradition, community, and resilience. While many see only the fields, crops, and livestock, the lives of farmers extend far beyond these visible aspects. Since 1869, CFM Insurance has been intricately connected to the farming community, understanding the unique challenges and unwavering devotion that comes with the territory.  

Join us as we go beyond the fields to explore the lives and demanding workload of Missouri farmers, featuring generational farmer and CFM policyholder Don Schlesselman. Through his story and legacy, we shed light on the heart, heritage, and future of farming, all seen through his eyes.

The Heart of Farming

The daily life of a farmer is nothing short of a commitment that begins before dawn and stretches long after sunset. Farming isn't just about tending to the land or livestock; it’s about nurturing a livelihood and sustaining a community. Whether it’s milking cows at the crack of dawn, checking on the health of crops, or repairing equipment, each day is filled with a diverse range of responsibilities and challenges to overcome. 

Don, a fourth-generation farmer, lives two miles east of Concordia on land that has been in his family since 1857. After graduating high school in 1982, Don proudly took on the role of a “full-time farmer,” working alongside his dad and frequently with his father-in-law. Today, Don’s son, Steven, is his dedicated partner, sharing the workload and responsibilities. Steven lives nearby, raising his family on the farm, while Don’s daughter, who also lives close, lends a hand during harvest season to keep things running smoothly.

In what has truly become a family affair, Steven helps Don farm the land and tend to their livestock, with operations extending across Lafayette and Saline Counties. What began as a dairy operation, milking cows until 2009, has since evolved into a diversified workload that includes a beef herd, corn, soybeans, and hay crops. 

In Don’s eyes, there’s no denying that farming isn’t just a job; it’s a way of life.  

“I haven't met too many farmers that only put in a traditional eight-hour work day, especially during planting and harvest seasons. I do believe that farming is a way of life, but in today's world, if you don't treat it like a business, you will have a difficult time being profitable.” 

This level of devotion is undeniably what keeps Missouri’s agricultural backbone strong, driving farmers like Don to persevere day in and day out. 

“We put in long hours on the farm, and things don't always go as well as we would like them to, but it is very rewarding to see your efforts culminate in a bountiful harvest or a nice bunch of healthy calves. I also take pride in knowing that I'm contributing to help supply the country with a reliable and secure food source.” 

The Generational Legacy of a Farm Family

For many Missouri farmers, the land they work on is more than just a plot of earth—it’s a legacy. Farming is often a multi-generational commitment, with knowledge and practices passed down from one generation to the next. Family farms have been the cornerstone of Missouri’s agricultural landscape for centuries, with many farms having been in the same family for over a hundred years.

The USDA says that family farms accounted for 96% of all U.S. farms, according to the 2017 Census of Agriculture. These farms – 1,789,439 small family farms, 108,304 mid-size family farms, and 52,592 large-scale family farms – collectively produced $318 billion worth of agricultural products in 2017. 

This deep connection to the land and to their ancestors who worked it before them is what makes farming more than just a business. As Don agrees, It’s a continuation of a legacy that carries the values, traditions, and hopes of generations. 

"I feel very honored to continue the legacy of my ancestors and blessed to be farming with our son. We have a 6-year-old grandson who currently says that he wants to be a farmer when he grows up. We will see what God's plan for him is. We also have a couple granddaughters who might decide to farm. My goal is to have a viable farm available if they choose this lifestyle.” 

As legacy producers like Don consider retirement, our country relies on the next generation to take on the crucial work of providing food, feed, fuel, and fiber for a growing population. Inheriting family farms can place immense pressure on younger generations, as they may need to secure funding for new equipment and feel heightened expectations to succeed. It’s essential that these farmers find the support, resources, and encouragement they need to carry their family’s legacy forward and continue shaping the future of agriculture.

Nurturing a Community Connection 

Farmers are the pulse of their communities, often serving as the glue that holds small towns together—though they’d never admit it, given their humility. Beyond their work in the fields, they actively participate in local events, school boards, and community organizations. Their commitment to their neighbors is as strong as their dedication to the land.

In the world of farming, looking out for one another is second nature. Missouri’s farmers understand the importance of community and are always ready to lend a hand. Don fondly recalls several instances where this sense of community shone through. 

"Back when farm machinery was first introduced, it was fairly common to share equipment among several farmers. Nowadays, most farmers have their own machinery, but I still do some custom haying and baling for those in the area who don't have their own equipment."

"Most farmers I know are heavily involved in various community organizations, from church leadership to fair boards, cooperative boards, and commodity groups. That involvement fosters a sense of unity and mutual support that strengthens the entire community. Last year, when a local farmer passed away unexpectedly, a group of 15 to 20 farmers from the area came together to harvest his crops, easing the burden on his family." 

Whether it's sharing equipment or rallying to support a neighbor in need, these farmers exemplify the true meaning of community. The spirit of camaraderie and dedication among Missouri's farmers is a testament to the deep-rooted values that bind their communities together. 

Facing Challenges & Showing Resilience 

Farming is not without its challenges. From unpredictable weather to fluctuating market prices, farmers face a host of obstacles that test their resolve. Yet, despite these difficulties, the resilience of Missouri’s farmers is unmatched. They adapt, innovate, and push forward, even when the odds seem insurmountable. 

Through all the tough times, farmers showcase an incredible amount of resilience and most importantly, faith.  

“You have to have faith to be a farmer! You can do everything in your power to grow a crop, but if you don't have enough rain, or too much rain, it can be very detrimental to your crops. Even when you have a good crop, the price and government regulations can sometimes make it difficult to be profitable.” 

This spirit of perseverance is what has sustained Missouri’s agricultural community through good times and bad, ensuring that farming remains a vital part of the state’s economy and culture. 

Embracing Innovations & Sustainability 

Today’s farmers are not just stewards of the land; they are innovators, constantly seeking new ways to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. From adopting sustainable farming practices to embracing cutting-edge technology, Missouri’s farmers are committed to ensuring that their land remains fertile and productive for future generations. 

Always on the lookout for better ways to farm, Don and his son, Steven, frequently experiment with new methods to ensure their land can support future generations. 

"My son and I utilize GPS technology to help us apply the right amount of fertilizer and crop protection products to the right acres at the right time. We use yield monitors to measure our harvest and, along with soil sampling, try to get the most return on our investments." 

These innovations are not just about increasing yields—they are about preserving the land and the environment, ensuring that farming can continue to thrive in Missouri for years to come.  

The Future of Farming

The future of farming is bright, with new generations stepping up to take the reins and new technologies paving the way for even greater advancements. Education and technology are becoming increasingly important, helping young farmers to manage their farms more effectively and sustainably. 

As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: the spirit of Missouri’s farmers will continue to drive the industry forward, ensuring that farming remains a cornerstone of life in the state. The lives of Missouri’s farmers are deeply intertwined with the land, their families, and their communities. Farming is more than just a profession; it’s a calling that requires dedication, resilience, and a deep connection to the land and people around them. 

At CFM Insurance, we are proud to support Missouri’s farmers, protecting the legacy they’ve built and the future they’re cultivating. We encourage you to support your local farmers, understanding the crucial role they play in our communities and our lives. 

Support your local farmers by buying their produce, participating in community events, and spreading awareness of the vital role they play in our society. CFM Insurance is here to protect the legacy and future of Missouri’s farmers, like we have for the Schlesselman family for decades. To learn more about our customizable farm product and how we can help protect your operation, reach out to a CFM agent today.