BAY CITY, TEXAS (RFD-TV) — A Texas cattle family is opening its operation to the public to help young people and families better understand beef production and the many careers available throughout agriculture.
Brothers Michael and Fredrick Hawkins of Hawkins Cattle Company are organizing a Cattle 101 event scheduled for October 24, bringing together agricultural partners to offer hands-on learning about the cattle industry.
Hawkins Cattle Company is a family-owned operation in Bay City, Texas. The brothers and their father work full-time on the family’s 40-cow-calf operation.
In their interview with RFD-TV, the brothers said Cattle 101 grew out of their experiences growing up around cattle and recognizing that not every child has the same opportunity.
Opening the Gates to Beef Production
“We grew up around cattle and really realized that not every child has that opportunity,” the brothers said.
They said many young people encounter beef at the grocery store or dinner table without seeing the work that goes into producing it.
The goal is to give attendees a firsthand look at cattle production and help them understand the people and work behind their food.
Hands-On Learning and Career Opportunities
Prairie View A&M University is serving as an educational partner for Cattle 101, with plans for hands-on cattle demonstrations.
The event is also bringing together agricultural organizations and industry participants to help introduce young people to different aspects of the business.
The Hawkins brothers said their goal extends beyond showing attendees what happens on a cattle operation. They also want young people to understand the range of careers available in agriculture, including animal science, veterinary medicine, equipment, business, and technology.
They said agricultural education can help young people recognize opportunities they might not otherwise consider.
Building on Family Heritage
The Hawkins family’s roots in Matagorda County go back generations. As they continue that tradition, the brothers are also looking at how cattle production can adapt to changing times, including direct-to-consumer beef.
They said sustainability and stewardship are central to maintaining the operation for future generations.
The goal is to preserve the foundation established by earlier generations while continuing to develop the business and its approach to cattle production.
Passing Agricultural Knowledge Forward
The brothers also credit their experiences in 4-H and FFA with shaping their understanding of agriculture.
Growing up in Bay City, they participated in agricultural programs, judging and showing cattle. Cattle 101 offers other young people a chance to gain similar exposure.
They said educating the public is an ongoing responsibility for ranchers, particularly when people may be unfamiliar with what happens beyond the grocery store.
They hope opening the operation to visitors will build a better understanding of beef production and the people who make it possible.
Looking Ahead to Cattle 101
The October 24 event is intended to give young people and families a closer look at cattle production through demonstrations and interaction with agricultural professionals.
For the Hawkins brothers, the effort is part of a broader commitment to education, family heritage, and helping the next generation discover its place in agriculture.
