Building the Next Generation
At Glover Cattle Company in Elgin, Oklahoma, Dustin and Jamie Glover spend their days raising cattle and helping the next generation develop a passion for agriculture. Whether they’re working with junior livestock exhibitors or teaching their own children about life on the farm, supporting young people’s success is a key part of their work philosophy.
Dustin and Jamie first met at a stock show, and the livestock industry has remained at the center of both their family and business ever since. They operate a herd of approximately 500 club calf cows, producing show cattle for exhibitors across the country.
The Glover’s son, Tommy, found success showing cattle, while their daughter, Taylor, pursued a different path through showing goats. Dustin recalls watching Taylor navigate unfamiliar territory and succeed because she was willing to put in the work.
“I’m very proud of my daughter,” Dustin said. “Taylor jumped in with both feet on something she didn’t know, and she came out on the end of the finish line smelling like a rose.”
Farm Credit Partnership
When Dustin and Jamie were in their mid-20s, they sought to purchase their first farm. Like many young producers, they faced the challenge of securing enough capital to get started.
Through Farm Credit of Western Oklahoma’s young, beginning, and small farmers program, the Glovers received tailored financing that helped make farm ownership a reality.
“When we bought our first farm at 24 or 25 years old, I was scared to death,” Dustin said. “Without that, we would’ve never gotten started.”
That loan marked the beginning of a long relationship with Farm Credit of Western Oklahoma. Through programs such as Farm Service Agency guaranteed loans, Farm Credit helps beginning farmers and ranchers like the Glovers access the financing they need to launch, strengthen and grow their operation.
“It takes a lot of capital these days to get started for a young person,” said Erral Myers, branch manager and vice president at Farm Credit of Western Oklahoma.
As their operation grew, the Glovers continued working with Farm Credit.
“There are lots of lending institutions out there, but Farm Credit understands what we as ag producers are trying to do,” Jamie said.
Supporting Agriculture’s Future
Today, the Glovers hope their children, nephew, and other young people involved in agriculture will continue building on the values they’ve learned – and taught – through livestock and farming.
“Our next leaders are those children,” Dustin said. “We’re teaching them right from wrong, how to do business and how to be good humans.”
They see that same commitment reflected in Farm Credit’s support of youth agriculture programs and leadership development opportunities such as FFA and 4-H.
“You see Farm Credit supporting all kinds of different programs that are supporting young people,” Jamie said. “If there’s a way back to production agriculture, if that’s what that young person wants, Farm Credit will have their back.”
