Virginia Father and Son Continue Family Farming Tradition

The Byrum family says bringing the next generation back to the farm is helping strengthen both the operation and the family bond.

WINDSOR, Va. (RFD News) — Family farming in America continues evolving, not just through technology, but through the next generation stepping into the operation.

For one Virginia farm family, a son’s return to the farm is bringing new ideas while continuing a family tradition decades in the making.

Cecil Byrum says he was thrilled when his son Steele decided to join the family farming operation.

Now farming alongside his father, Steele Byrum is helping grow wheat, soybeans and cotton while also learning the challenges that come with agriculture, from changing weather conditions to volatile commodity markets.

The Byrum family says farming has become a blend of old traditions and new ideas, something they believe continues bringing generations together.

They add that despite the challenges, farming remains a labor of love.

Related Stories
Recent USDA reports show a steady feedlot supply despite growing consumer demand for beef, ahead of typical seasonal summer trends.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln highlights hands-on programs preparing students for a wide range of agriculture-related fields
RFD NEWS Correspondent Tammi Arender takes us to Produce Ridge, where we meet Louisiana farmer Charles Holley as he continues a family legacy over 100 years old, and teaches his grandchildren the value of working the land.
With deep agricultural ties, Dr. Carrie Castille, a South Louisiana native, aims to support ULM student success and connect rural communities.
Tennessee students share how the program fosters confidence, connection, and a sense of community
Up-and-coming stock show competitor Saylor Soechting makes her Rodeo Austin debut, showcasing teamwork, dedication, and the next generation of livestock show competitors.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

SAE programs help FFA students build skills beyond the classroom.
Louisiana farmers say high water levels routinely threaten crops, highlighting the need for critical infrastructure and sustainability efforts in the Bayou.
Dixondale Farms produces around 900 million onion transplants each year, shipping them directly to customers and distributors across the country.
The Farm Monitor says Georgia farmers highlighted profitability and labor challenges during a Farm Bureau event with USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden.
Effort aims to reduce wildfire risk in Western Colorado communities
Hemp growth is driven by floral demand, with mixed returns elsewhere.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
RFD-TV’s newest music series, “On the Record,” presented by John Deere, takes viewers on a journey through the heart of country music. Hosted by renowned broadcaster, Suzanne Alexander, the show features long-form interviews with today’s biggest artists and the veterans who inspired them. “On the Record” also gives viewers a front row seat to intimate performances and exclusive music video releases, highlighting the broad scope of Nashville’s talent.