Producer Spotlight: Knobloch Farms

Knobloch Family standing in front of their herd

Hills, Minnesota

Meet The Knobloch Family

Knobloch Family Farm is a 2nd generation farm started in 1965 by Larry, Dallas Knobloch’s father.  The Knobloch family raises black Angus cattle on their farm outside Hills, Minnesota. Dallas and Amy, and their children all take part in the operation. Amy handles the accounting, errands, and so much more. Son, Tory (18), is a freshman at Lake Area Tech and is active in all facets of the operation, and is part owner of the cow herd. Daughter, Claire (13), is in 8th grade and loves the cattle. She takes care of the 4-H steers, bottle calves, and her laying hens.

Favorite Part of Raising Cattle

Dallas enjoys the day-to-day care and working with the cattle. Although a routine, it is one he looks forward to every day. Dallas also enjoys working with farmers and ranchers when it is time to purchase cattle to fill the feed yard.

Raising Cattle in the 21st Century

Times have changed in the near 60 years since the Knobloch farm was established. Technology advances allow raising cattle to be more of a science. Keeping up with the agricultural markets is always challenging, but “raising cattle is important in supplying a healthy and sustainable protein and extremely important to the local economy.”

Efficiencies & Sustainability

Given the changing markets, the Knoblochs strive to be more vertically integrated. Focusing on efficiency helps keep costs down and creates a more productive operation. In addition, incorporating sustainable practices support the operation goals.

Currently, the family plants cover crops that reduce tillage. The family also feeds 100% of their crops to the cattle, reducing dependency on commercially produced feed. In addition, utilizing cow herd manure as fertilizer on their fields lowers carbon emissions and costs.

Favorite Cut of Beef

The Knoblochs enjoy grilling and recently added a smoker to their lineup. The current family favorite is smoked brisket. Beef is always a part of their daily meal planning.

Why Choose Upper Iowa Beef?

The Knobloch family is a relatively new customer, marketing their first cattle to UIB in 2021.” Dallas states, “We really enjoy the ease of scheduling, allowing us to harvest cattle in a timely fashion. In turn, providing the consumer with a more desirable product. We look forward to future business and seeing how we can grow and benefit from this
relationship.”

Downloadable PDF Resources

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