The early morning mist still hung over the fields in Ethel, Louisiana, as I pulled onto Turner Road, ready for a crash course in cattle farming. My connection to Metcalf Farms, a family-owned beef cattle business, came through a familiar face: Laurie Metcalf, Troy Metcalf’s mother and a colleague at the Bank of Zachary. Intrigued by her son’s venture, I’d asked if I could lend a hand and learn a thing or two. What I discovered was a faith filled family that works hard toward a common goal and enjoys each other’s company.

Troy Metcalf is a guy who learned how to work cattle at the age of 13 from Chip Peroyea and his family. “He taught me in Sunday school in 9th grade, and he’s been a godly mentor and cattle mentor for the last 22 years!” Troy says of Chip. 

Metcalf Farms was started by Troy and Kalyn Metcalf. Despite not owning the land themselves, they’ve cultivated a successful operation on leased pasture just a few hundred yards from their home. Their landlord, Richard Buhler, who just turned 90, has a rich history tied to the very ground the Metcalfs now tend. "Great man and family," Troy remarks, recalling Buhler’s past as a cattleman and hay producer, and the "massive garden that seemed to feed everyone down Turner Rd." The land itself tells a story, with a former railroad line now a "catchpen" and towering power lines serving millions. "Now I have local raised beef feeding families all over," Troy beams, highlighting the evolution of this fertile ground.

My greenhorn status was quickly established as I joined the Metcalf family in the catchpen. The scene involved carefully orchestrated teamwork, with each of Troy's children playing a crucial role. Olson, the "super puncher," skillfully guided the cattle through the metal chute for their health regimen. Youngest son, Jennings, called out ear tag numbers to his sister Jennings and her friend Emma, the diligent bookkeepers. Gary, the family patriarch, expertly separated cows, even managing a massive bull borrowed from friend Josh Quebedeaux. My assignment was simple: close the gate each time Troy and Josh sent cattle my way. I quickly learned the imposing size of a cow, often finding myself atop metal barricades to avoid being smashed like a fly on the wall. After the separation, I was entrusted with squirting dewormer into each cow’s mouth, while Troy administered shots and eyewash.

Three hours later, the work complete, we returned to the Metcalf home for a well-deserved, hearty breakfast prepared by Kalyn: bacon, eggs, and biscuits, all locally sourced. The coffee, brewed with Coffee Time beans, local honey, and cream from the Tri-Parish Co-op, was a particular highlight. 

The Metcalfs' success offers a powerful lesson–if you want to farm or ranch, make do with what you’ve got. If you want to farm or ranch, don’t use the excuse that you don’t own 10+ acres and a shiny new tractor. Lean on community by extending favors as you learn, lease land if you have to. Borrow a bull and return the favor. This family has proven that through dedicated family effort, fair dealings with neighbors, and unwavering faith in God, one can achieve anything.