Area farmer adds to successful operation with help from USDA
Koua Thao, formerly of Laos, aims to grow his already successful farming operation in Miller County with some help from the Department of Agriculture.
In January 2005, Thao started this project after using a USDA Farm Service Agency Guaranteed Farm Ownership loan of $30,000 to purchase a hen breeding farm with two henhouses on 40 acres.
Through a contract with Tyson, he and his wife, Mai Her, have been able to create a successful business in Miller County by selling eggs to Tyson, where they will be hatched and raised for meat production.
Last year, Thao wished to diversify his farming operation, so he contacted FSA Farm Loan Manager Gene Horne in hopes of receiving a microloan to purchase 22 cows and one bull. Thao’s proposal was approved. “I don’t have much land, but USDA programs help quite a bit,” Thao said in a press release. “The cows keep the grass down and I hope they help out financially. I just got 11 calves, and I’m hoping for 11 more in the next month.”
Having both chickens and cattle creates a productive operation since the chicken litter can be used to fertilize the pasture, which will facilitate grass growth for grazing and hay.
According to Thao, agriculture comes somewhat naturally to him.
“Agriculture is in my blood,” Thao said in the release. “My family has always done agriculture and agriculture is interesting to me. I like being outside and to work alone.”
Thao’s hard work and diligent care have not gone unnoticed.
“Koua is a hard worker and obviously takes care of his cattle,” Horne said. “His cows are fleshy and look good. He’s new to the livestock business but is willing to put in the work.”