In 2022, Steve and Angela took over managing Steve’s parents’ 200-acre farm, which has been in the family since the early 1900’s. As the fourth-generation farmers on the existing property, they are working to scale up beef production and provide pasture-raised beef to local communities.
The Hicks are implementing new, innovative means to maximize the land’s capabilities and efficiencies. Legacy Oaks Farm, LLC was established as an independent entity in 2023, with the goal of expanding what has traditionally been a family-run ‘hobby’ business into a sustainable beef production business for local communities. Black Angus were introduced to the Hicks’ property in 2011 and they primarily focused on the sale of feeder calves until recently.
Steve has been an active member of the Granville County Cattlemen’s Association since 2015. Through this network, Steve and Angela connected with Dean Askew, who consults with beef producers in the region. (Full disclosure, Dean previously worked for Firsthand Foods as our Beef Network Coordinator). Steve and Angela consulted with Dean early in their journey on some of their ideas, including pasture management, animal handling techniques and rotational grazing strategies as well as beef genetics and nutrition.
Steve and Angela are eager to innovate and adopt more sustainable practices. They’ve made some key investments, including a chute and corral system that makes handling safer for them and more humane for the cattle. They’ve added pastures, introduced a bale processor to reduce hay waste, and started using temporary fencing (polywire) to section off pastures and intensify their approach to grazing. Notes Steve, “I’m amazed how these large animals will obey one small wire. It’s remarkably easy and effective.”
