Southeast Missouri isn’t just fertile ground for row crops—it’s a thriving landscape for beef cattle farming. From small family-run operations to regenerative grazing stewards, this region showcases a vibrant mix of traditions and forward-thinking practices that deliver exceptional beef while nurturing the land.

Regional Cattle Scene: A Snapshot

Missouri stands strong in the national beef landscape, ranking second in beef cow numbers, with approximately 62,000 cattle farms and nearly $1 billion in annual beef sales. In Southeast Missouri, every county raises beef cattle, with significant concentrations—around 48,500 head in Cape Girardeau County, and 42,700 in Perry County. Rich soils, varied terrain, and abundant water make the region well-suited for cattle farming—a sentiment echoed by agricultural stewards across the state.
 

Final Thoughts

Southeast Missouri’s beef cattle farms weave together tradition, innovation, and environmental stewardship. Whether it’s heritage-driven quality, regenerative land use, or genetic excellence, these farms exemplify the resilience and richness of the region’s agricultural heritage. From farm to table, their approaches highlight how thoughtful, ethical production leads to better beef—and a stronger rural community.