WEST PLAINS, Mo. — Lucky Falling Star Ranch in West Plains, Mo. is home to registered Texas Longhorns and is a producer of high quality lean beef. The ranch is also now using solar to power their farm enterprise.
In partnership with USDA Rural Development and University of Missouri Extension specialists, Greg and Karol Brown invested in solar to power their farming business. The addition of a 14kw solar system will produce 19,739 kw or renewable energy, replacing 109 percent of energy used.
“Relying on renewable energy and improved technologies, solar reduces monthly energy costs while increasing the value of the farm,” said Dr. Amy Patillo, community development specialist with MU Extension.
Drastically cutting monthly energy bills with on farm solar power production offsets every kilowatt-hour that would need to be purchased and results in more money remaining on the farm.
Solar also provides farmers with a reliable, cost-effective energy solution, eliminating the vulnerability to the increasing price of energy. The installation of solar panels also increases the value of the farm, resulting in a long-term investment in the value and viability of the farm.
“MU Extension is proud to work with our hardworking small farmers that pride themselves on innovation in farm techniques, and invest in sustaining the land and the preservation of resources,” said Patillo. “MU Extension is dedicated to helping small farmers.”
For more information about small farmer resources contact MU Extension community development specialists; Amy Patillo in Christian County (417) 581-3558 and Van Ayers in Stoddard County (573) 568-3344.
— Dr. Amy Patillo, University of Missouri Extension
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