Ron and Jessica Cummings of rural Howard have been named Elk County Farm Bureau Association’s Farm Family of the Year for 2009.

Both Ron and Jessica have been involved in cattle ranching and grain farming since the mid-1990s. Ron began helping his father, Allen Cummings, on the farm “from the time he was old enough to steer a truck and tractor,” says Jessica.

The Cummings currently rent 150 acres planted in row crops and own 75 cows. In addition to his custom hay operation, which entails 1,500 acres per summer, Ron helps his father with an additional 800 acres of row crops and 75 cows. Ron also manages a 300-head cow/calf operation that includes commercial and registered Beefmaster cattle.

Jessica is employed at First National Bank, Howard. She also helps Ron in nearly every aspect of their farm/ranch operation, including swathing and raking hay, working cattle, and preparing the ground for crops.

The Cummings family, which includes 2-year-old son Clancy John, will be recognized with a Farm Family of the Year plaque and yard sign during the Elk County association’s annual meeting in August. They also will be guests at the Kansas Farm Bureau’s recognition banquet at the Kansas State Fair.

See their complete story in this week’s printed edition of Prairie Star.