In family farming, there is constant preparation for the next generation. Passing the baton, so to speak, is a task that is never taken lightly and having the assurance and peace of mind that the next generation knows what to do and is prepared to lead is a top priority. At the Nebraska FFA Foundation, a similar objective is shared. The Foundation focuses on preserving the legacy laid by our state's past agricultural leaders while helping future leaders build upon it.
That baton is now being handed to Megan Macklin, the current Nebraska FFA State Vice President from the Blue Hill FFA Chapter. For Macklin's SAE (supervised agricultural experience), she purchased two fall-bred cows in hopes of raising calves and later selling them. After purchasing her first two cows, both gave birth to healthy calves which were sold at weaning weight. Macklin rebred both cows and was able to sell her second set of calves earlier this summer at her local sale barn.
“This SAE has taught me so much about animal husbandry, livestock management, responsibility, and the day-to-day decisions that go into operating a cattle enterprise. It has also strengthened my work ethic and shown me the importance of communication and teamwork while working alongside family,” said Macklin.
Much of what is passed onto the next generation is remembered not so much because of surface-level tasks, but because the memories and involvement with close ones are what make those lessons stick. For Macklin, that was a big part of what made her SAE so special—taking what she learned from her family and carrying it on for the rest of her life.
“I will always cherish the time I spent learning from my grandpa as he taught me the ropes of cattle ownership,” she says. “Being involved in the same family cattle herd that meant so much to him makes this SAE incredibly meaningful. Those memories and lessons are something I'll carry with me for the rest of my life.”
Purchasing the initial cattle was one of the largest challenges because of the large upfront investment. But Macklin made the commitment, and that commitment is partly what led to her making the purchase before cattle prices reached today's much higher numbers. With the help of the Nebraska FFA Foundation, Macklin applied for and received grant funding to assist with her SAE, and she is still reaping the benefits today.
This fall, Macklin will be attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, studying agricultural economics with a focus in pre-law. She hopes to later return to a Nebraska community as an ag attorney while staying connected with the beef industry.
“My advice to other FFA members is to be confident in what you know, but humble enough to recognize there's always more to learn,” Macklin says. “Agriculture is built on relationships, so never underestimate the value of getting to know people and learning from their experiences.”
