Fair Oaks Farms, a family‑run cattle operation near Arkansas that traces its roots back more than a hundred years, is feeling the squeeze of higher expenses and a dry season. Owners Fred and Shirley Williams, who shifted the farm from dairy to beef cattle in the 1980s, say the rising cost of diesel, feed and other inputs is making it harder to maintain profitability.

Fuel and feed prices surge

“Farming is a tough business, but it has been very good to me,” Fred Williams said. “But the diesel we use to run the farm used to cost about $2,000 to fill the tank, and now it’s substantially more.” The Williamses explained that diesel powers everything from tractors to irrigation pumps, so the increase hits every part of the operation.

Feed costs have followed a similar upward trend. “The input costs are extremely high,” Williams added. “Feed is high. Just in general, taking care of cattle is a lot more expensive than it used to be.” The higher price of grain and hay, combined with the need to purchase additional hay this year, has tightened margins.

Drought adds pressure on pastures

Since the summer, the region has experienced unusually warm, dry weather. The Williamses reported that the farm’s ponds have dropped about three feet, reducing water availability for both livestock and pasture irrigation. “We rotated pastures often and still do, but we had to buy hay,” Williams said, noting that the lack of sufficient home‑grown hay forced the farm to turn to the market.

Despite these challenges, the family remains resolute. “We enjoy doing it, and we will keep doing it as long as I’m alive,” Fred Williams affirmed, underscoring a deep commitment to the land and the community that supports the farm.

Looking ahead

The Williamses are exploring ways to offset costs, including diversifying income streams and seeking more efficient pasture management techniques. While the immediate outlook is demanding, they remain hopeful that prudent adjustments and continued community support will help Fair Oaks Farms weather the current economic and environmental headwinds.

Fair Oaks Farms stands as a testament to the perseverance of Arkansas’s agricultural families, who continue to feed the nation even when faced with rising expenses and unpredictable weather.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.