Jodie Nay, an organic wheat farmer and cattle producer from Hereford, Colorado, shares her life on the farm through captivating photographs and engaging conversations. In this article, we delve into her story, from her early days on the ranch to her current endeavors in photography and farming.

Uncover the Beauty of Family Farming with Jodie Nay

History and the Ranch

Jodie Nay has spent her entire life on the family farm in Hereford, Colorado. It's a place where family is at the heart of everything. With six kids in the family, five of them are still actively involved in farming and ranching. During the winter, she assisted her dad, while in the summer, she worked closely with one of her brothers. The area may not be the most ideal for crops, but they make it work with their extensive acres of organic wheat and ample pasture ground for cows.The family's farming history dates back, with her aunt and uncle running a feedlot and a dairy. Jodie's dad, however, had a passion for farming and pasture cattle, and she followed in his footsteps.

Crops and Animals

Organic wheat is the main crop on their farm. Jodie learned farming from her dad, watching him work the tractor and till the ground to get rid of weeds. It's a different way of doing things compared to using chemicals for spraying. They also have a significant number of cows, with a Hereford Angus mix being their preferred breed. The black baldies are a sight to behold, and this year, they added a Hereford bull to their herd, which will bring some exciting changes next year.The dairy nearby provides a niche market for their milk. Although the family no longer has a dairy of their own, they take their calves to a neighboring feedlot, which is a good way to sell them.

Photography and Its Beginnings

Jodie has always had a love for pictures. The flat landscape of Hereford allows for breathtaking sunrises and sunsets that are simply mesmerizing. A few years ago, her husband gave her a camera, and she decided to create a page to share more of her photos. It has been a wonderful experience, and she loves showing the world what they do on the farm. She keeps her captions simple, answering questions when needed but letting people form their own opinions.Using a real camera instead of a phone camera has made a difference for her. It helps her focus on the beauty around her and disconnect from distractions. It has also changed her perspective, making her more aware of the little things in life.

Family and Working Together

The Nay family is a big one, and everyone pitches in to help. Her sister drives the tractor during the summer, and her other brother is often involved. Their kids are also a part of the farm life, and the family atmosphere is one of fun and togetherness. They tease each other and have a great time while working.During the holidays, it can be a bit challenging as everyone has their own families to attend to. But they still find ways to get together and enjoy each other's company.

Photography as a Business

Jodie has been selling calendars and other items with her photos at craft shows around the area. She is also working on a website to expand her business. She takes custom orders and can turn her photos into various products, giving people a unique opportunity to own something related to agriculture.For those who want to improve their photography skills, Jodie advises them to focus on what is beautiful to them personally. Don't worry about what others might think. Just capture the moments that matter to you.

Conclusion

Jodie Nay's story is a testament to the beauty and importance of family farming. Through her photography and hard work, she is sharing the essence of rural life with the world. Her love for the land, animals, and family shines through in everything she does.