Jeff and Glenda DeShon
Four Oaks Farm and Goats on the Go Mid-MO
Boone County Soil and Water Conservation District
Columbia, MO

In the heart of Boone County, Missouri, Jeff DeShon and his family have cultivated a legacy deeply rooted in the land. Living on a fourth-generation family farm alongside his wife Glenda, Jeff has dedicated his life to sustainable agriculture, soil health, and the education of future generations.

The DeShon family farm is a bustling hub of activity, where cattle, goats, and sheep roam freely across fields that have been managed to enhance soil health. Jeff, Glenda, and their grown children, Justin and Jessica, have embraced a variety of farming practices aimed at improving the overall well-being of the land they call home.

Rotational grazing, multi-species grazing, no-tilling, stream protection, field borders, and grazing annual cover crops are just a few of the sustainable methods implemented on the DeShon farm. These practices not only contribute to soil health but also ensure the longevity of the farm and its productivity for generations to come.

Beyond their commitment to sustainable farming, the DeShon family actively engages in agritourism through their businesses, Goats on The Go Mid-MO and Four Oaks Farm. For six years, they have offered targeted grazing services with goats, providing an eco-friendly solution to vegetation control. Meanwhile, Four Oaks Farm welcomes families to experience the joys of farm life through u-pick sunflowers, pumpkins, and a host of fun, farm-themed activities.

Jeff, Glenda, Justin, Jessica, and their spouses are deeply involved in the agritourism venture, using it as a platform to educate the community on rotational grazing, soil health, and the origins of their food. The fall season at Four Oaks Farm becomes an educational experience for visitors, showcasing the importance of sustainable farming practices.

Jeff DeShon’s commitment to agriculture extends beyond the boundaries of his farm. Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from the University of Missouri, Jeff is actively involved in various agricultural organizations. Serving on the advisory board for the Missouri Sheep and Goat Conference, the Boone County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, and the Missouri Forage and Grasslands Council Board, he plays a vital role in shaping agricultural policies and practices.

As Chairman of the Boone County Soil and Water Conservation District Board, a position he has held since 2013, Jeff is at the forefront of promoting conservation efforts in the region. He is also the Director for Area 5 of the Missouri Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD), where he tirelessly advocates for soil health and regenerative agriculture.

In the face of challenges such as rising land values, escalating rent costs, and unpredictable weather patterns, Jeff remains undeterred. The Boone County Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors is proud to nominate him as a Soil Health Champion. His dedication to promoting cost-share and outreach programs, assisting with grant activities, and hosting educational events on the family farm showcases his unwavering commitment to sustainable agriculture.

Through his hard work, Jeff DeShon is working to transform his family farm into a model of regenerative agriculture. As a Soil Health Champion, his influence will undoubtedly continue to grow, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps towards a more sustainable and resilient agricultural future.

Posted: March 15, 2024