Lubben White Oak Farms was selected from the National Cattlemen's Beef Association's Region 3, consisting of Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Illinois and Wisconsin. In order to increase the production and quality of grasses, the Lubbens researched and adopted the practice of management intensive grazing. Using this program, the Lubbens plan to maximize profits by having more grazable acres as well as year-round grazing, less soil erosion and less need for fertilizer and chemicals. Using rotational grazing also helps distribute livestock and disburse manure evenly over each pasture. The manure reduces the farm usage of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium, which saves money.
Areas are devoted to fish and wildlife habitat and help contribute to the beauty of the landscape.
These areas provide homes to deer, pheasants, ducks, geese and fish. The Lubbens try to decrease their fossil fuel consumption and production costs by practicing minimum till, minimum application of chemicals and fertilizers, and using energy efficiently. Recycling tractor tires into portable feed troughs is an example of the creative ways the Lubbens work to be more efficient. In addition, practicing sustainable agriculture allows us to work with in accordance with the rhythms of nature. The winners will compete against other regional winners for a national award, that will be announced during NCBA's 1998 Annual Convention in Denver in February courtesy of Park Avenue by Buick.