We breed Simmental cattle, raise chickens and operate a small commercial garden. Growing up on family farms in the Midwest, we learned to appreciate the value of hard work. We have college degrees in agriculture and have between us many years spent working both on and off the farm in the agriculture industry. Our passion for raising livestock and our commitment in doing so while maintaining the solid ethical standards with which we were raised keeps us motivated. We believe in and practice sustainability and stewardship of the land, air, water and livestock. Practicing animal welfare was from the very beginning an integral part of our philosophy for raising cattle and chickens. Jim started raising Simmental cattle with his dad and brothers on their central Illinois grain and livestock farm in the early 70’s. Rocking P Ranch became a member of the American Simmental Association in 1973. When the boys had all left for college, their dad sold the cows. After graduating from Illinois State University, Jim spent several years as a livestock nutritionist before getting back into the cattle business. In 1991, Jim rented a farm, purchased 3 heifers and reactivated membership in ASA. In the early 2000’s, Jim served as County Environmental Health Inspector and became a certified food handler. It was after Jim had rented a second farm in 1997 that Cyndi became involved with Rocking P Ranch. As the daughter of 6th generation family farmers in west central Illinois, Cyndi grew up on a grain and livestock farm where her family raised registered Black Angus cattle for many years. After studying agriculture education and animal science at Western Illinois University, she began a career in farm broadcasting. It was our passion for the cattle industry that brought us together. We met in the early 80’s at the National Block and Bridle Club Annual meeting held during the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky. Years later, we took in the Simmental Show at the Keystone International in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on our honeymoon. We bought a farm and moved to Moniteau County, Missouri in 2002. Rocking P Ranch is a member of American Simmental Association and Missouri Simmental Association, where Jim currently serves as a board member. Our cattle enjoy a grass-based diet with no added hormones or antibiotics. We take a hands-on approach to feeding, watering and managing the husbandry of our herd and flock. Rocking P Ranch cattle and chickens receive humane treatment and handling, and have access to ample indoor and outdoor facilities.
