RIDGE SPRING, S.C. — Family, commitment and value are three words that describe Yon Family Farms of Ridge Spring, South Carolina. First-generation seedstock producers Kevin and Lydia Yon have built their registered Angus operation from the ground up. Yon Family Farms’ commitment and progressive approach have led to the American Angus Association’s nomination and the 2020 Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) Seedstock Producer of the Year Award.
“The BIF has meant a lot to our family over the years because of the strides it’s made to better the seedstock industry,” said Kevin Yon, Yon Family Farms owner. “We are so appreciative of all the BIF stands for, so this award is even more special to us.”
Since Yon Family Farms was established in 1996, the Yon family started with their original 100 cows and 100 acres and have expanded to more than 1,500 head of brood cows and thousands of acres of crop, pasture and timber land. Their data collection, stewardship of the land, early adoption of technology and focus on genetic improvement have contributed to their operations’ success.
“Yon Family Farms is a great example of what can happen when big dreams meet an unwavering commitment to excellence,” said Mark McCully, American Angus Association CEO. “We are celebrating with the Yon family on their great accomplishment.”
The philosophy behind Yon Family Farms has always been to produce cattle that balance all economically important traits, genetics that will keep people in business on the maternal side of the cow base and producing an end product that will meet the needs and demand of the end consumer. They accomplish that goal by collecting a lot of data, enrolling in programs through the American Angus Association and passing that information on to their customers. With three children already working on their operation, the Yons’ dream is extending to a second generation.
For more information about the BIF Seedstock Producer of the Year award, visit BIFconference.com. Go to Angus.org for more information about the American Angus Association.
ANGUS MEANS BUSINESS. The American Angus Association® is the nation’s largest beef breed organization, serving more than 25,000 members across the United States, Canada and several other countries. It’s home to an extensive breed registry that grows by nearly 300,000 animals each year. The Association also provides programs and services to farmers, ranchers and others who rely on Angus to produce quality genetics for the beef industry and quality beef for consumers.
For more information about Angus cattle and the American Angus Association, visit www.angus.org.
–Rachel Robinson, Angus Communications