Newcastle’s Own Beef Story: From Farm to Fork
In the charming town of Newcastle, Wyoming, a vibrant farming community is radiating excitement as families reconnect with the origins of their food. The Paulton family, known for their top-notch Angus beef, is at the heart of this movement, showcasing how love for farming can lead to creative business ventures that celebrate community ties.
Ranching Roots
The Paultons have deep roots in ranching. Travis and Kendra Paulton manage a fourth-generation ranch, Dakota Canyon Ranch, located on the picturesque outskirts of the Black Hills National Forest in Dewey, South Dakota. This family-run operation not only feeds their family but also serves as a source of joy for their seven children, who are all actively involved in ranching activities.
As a couple, they initially set aside a few steers for their own freezer, but as friends began to inquire about purchasing meat directly from them, the Paultons happily obliged. What started as a few sold halves and quarters burgeoned into a thriving business as they began selling individual cuts at their local farmers market about five years ago.
A Journey to Direct Sales
Transitioning to selling directly to consumers has required grit and creativity. Kendra reflects on how they began expanding their customer base, realizing that building community relationships through the farmers market was key. “We view the farmers market not just as a place to sell beef but also as a wonderful opportunity to connect with people,” she said. As customers got a taste of their high-quality beef and learned about the Paultons’ farming practices, many decided to stock up and order half a cow to fill their family freezers for the year.
The Influence of the Pandemic
Like many others, the Paultons witnessed a shift in consumer behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic. People became more interested in knowing exactly where their food came from and who grew it. “The pandemic opened people’s eyes about reconnecting with their food,” Kendra noted. “They want to support families like ours; they’re buying our story.”
Embracing Technology for Change
Moving with the times, the Paultons have also embraced technology to further their reach. In January 2023, Kendra discovered the online platform Range Market, a burgeoning website designed to streamline the sales process for livestock producers. Founded in the wake of increased demand for direct-to-consumer beef, Range Market offers features that simplify website management and shipping logistics. Instead of worrying about the complexities of shipping beef across state lines, Range Market handles the heavy lifting, allowing the Paultons to focus on what they do best—raising and caring for cattle.
Community Spirit and Future Aspirations
The Paulton family is fueled by their passion for farming and the love of community. Kendra is particularly encouraging of her children’s involvement—her daughter Millie even owns her own cow and is raising a show steer this year. “Each child finds a way to contribute, and it’s exciting to think they might want to continue the ranching legacy,” Kendra said.
Despite the challenges of land constraints and rising costs, diversifying their business has become crucial. “We plan to keep expanding our market beyond our local community, and we’re optimistic about where we’re heading,” Kendra expressed.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the Paultons gear up for 2024, they are nearly sold out of their bulk beef offerings with preorders that have surged in popularity. Growing interest in their local farmers market initiatives further reinforces their decision to nurture personal relationships with customers while providing outstanding products. Thanks to the collaborative spirit of ranchers, they’ve been able to share knowledge and resources with one another, ultimately fostering a supportive network.
Overall, the Paultons’ story is one of resilience, community engagement, and innovation. Their journey showcases how agriculture can evolve while maintaining roots in tradition and familial bonds. Newcastle, Wyoming, and its surrounding areas are lucky to have such dedicated families contributing to the rich tapestry of local food culture.
