BANKSTON, Iowa (RFD News) — As National Beef Month continues, one Iowa family is being recognized for combining cattle production with conservation practices focused on long-term soil health.
Smith Family Farms, owned by Jack and Maria Smith, was named the Region III winner of the 2025 Environmental Stewardship Award Program.
The operation was recognized by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association for its use of no-till farming, cover crops and rotational grazing across its 420-head beef operation.
The Smith family says improving soil health and building sustainability across the farm has remained a major focus as the operation continues growing across generations.
All month long, RFD News is highlighting beef producers who help feed families across the country and around the world. To find more stories and recipes that celebrate beef, CLICK HERE: May is National Beef Month!
Related Stories
The Overstreet family’s cattle operation combines conservation practices with decades of resilience.
Industry leaders gather in Mexico City to strengthen trade and showcase product quality.
USDA Chief Economist Justin Benavidez says the cattle industry may be nearing a turning point that could gradually reshape supply, prices, and profitability in the years ahead.
The fifth-generation operation is managing land and cattle with a long-term focus.
Beef is leading the decline as slaughter drops and supplies tighten.
