Symbrosia Farm Ambassador: Dr. Barb Howe
Our Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture: The Farm Ambassador Initiative
The Farm Ambassador Initiative is designed to connect with devoted farmers, ranchers, and livestock experts who are equally passionate about shaping the future of agriculture in harmony with the environment. We've handpicked a team of four exceptional individuals to serve as the vanguard of our efforts, providing an insider's look at our pioneering work. These ambassadors act as vital conduits, ensuring fluid dialogue between the heart of the livestock sector and our cutting-edge feed additive solutions. Through this initiative, we aim to build a bridge to a sustainable future, uniting innovative practices with the time-honored traditions of farming.
From 4-H Dreams to High-Altitude Ranching Reality
Dr. Barb Howe's path in agriculture is a testament to the power of childhood passions and lifelong dedication. Growing up in a Colorado mountain suburb, her parents nurtured her love for animals, setting the stage for a future in animal science. Early experiences in 4-H, from raising dairy goats and rabbits to riding horses, laid the foundation for what would become a distinguished career in agriculture. This youthful enthusiasm, combined with rigorous academic pursuits at Colorado State University, culminated in Dr. Howe earning a Ph.D. in Animal Science - Nutrition. Her professional journey took an unexpected detour through the beef processing industry and into a 30-year career supporting the companion animal industry. However, the call of agriculture remained strong, and in 2016, Dr. Howe began living her ranching dream alongside her husband.
Today, Dr. Howe operates a unique ranch at over 8,000 feet above sea level, dedicated to preserving a century-old legacy of cattle and hay production. Her approach blends tradition with innovation, always seeking to improve management strategies and ensure animal well-being. "We look to the past for the ways that kept the ranch sustainable, and we are looking to the future for how we can make sure it stays sustainable," Dr. Howe explains. This forward-thinking attitude extends to community engagement, educating others about the ranching lifestyle and offering high-quality, ranch-to-table beef.
One of Dr. Howe's proudest achievements is revitalizing the Mile-Hi Cattlewomen group. This initiative reflects her deep understanding of the public's curiosity about agriculture. "I have learned that the majority of people want to know what we do, and they want to understand," she notes. Recognizing the urban-rural divide, Dr. Howe sees an opportunity to bridge this gap through education and open dialogue. Through the Cattlewomen group, Dr. Howe creates connections between producers and consumers, sharing the realities of modern ranching life. Her approach is both educational and relatable, acknowledging that for many, the ranching lifestyle seems like "a dream... a western movie." By openly sharing their stories and daily experiences, Dr. Howe and her colleagues are demystifying agriculture, making it accessible and relevant to their increasingly urban neighbors.
"I believe in agriculture as a way to connect all of us," she states, emphasizing the role of women in agriculture to be inclusive and reach people at their level of understanding about the world's food supply. This philosophy underscores all of Dr. Howe's efforts, from her ranch management to her community outreach.
🐮 Q&A with Dr. Howe
What's one thing you wish more people knew about farming?
"I wish people would understand the love and passion that farmers and ranchers have for what they do, and the pride they take in it. Farming and ranching is a lifestyle, not just a job. There are no weekends or regular days off; it is a daily commitment to the animals and the crops they are raising."
What's your fun fact about cattle?
"They are extremely good at finding the one weak spot in a fence line! You can have re-built and reinforced a fence and there is always that one cow that will find a way out, and take the whole herd with her. This generally happens when you have plans and have to be in town at a specific time....10 minutes before you have to leave they will be in the front yard."
What were your initial thoughts when you heard about SeaGraze?
"I was fascinated as I love new technology, especially when it comes to agriculture. Finding new, natural ways to support animal ag is so important, and SeaGraze is an exceptional advancement in working towards lowering methane emissions in beef cattle."
What excites you the most about working with Symbrosia?
"I am very excited to be learning about our future. In ag, our future depends on new advancements, and what Symbrosia is doing is helping us define that future. I am also very excited about the other Farmer Ambassadors and getting to know them and hearing what they are doing. We can all improve through collaboration as well as seeing alternative ways and gaining new insights."
Dr. Barb Howe's story is one of passion, perseverance, and innovation. From her childhood dreams to her current role as a high-altitude rancher and agricultural advocate, she continues to connect traditional farming practices with cutting-edge solutions. As one of Symbrosia's Farmer Ambassadors, Dr. Howe brings a unique perspective that combines scientific expertise with practical ranching experience.
