In Stoddard County, Missouri, Jennifer McMeans stands out in a field where grit and determination are second nature. Growing up on her family farm, Jennifer’s story is deeply rooted in agriculture—a life she's known since she was a little girl riding on a tractor. Jennifer, alongside her husband, Oliver, and her family, grows corn, soybeans, and her favorite crop, rice. Working under the entities of John and Janet Davis Joint Venture, 3J Farms, and her aunt’s operation, she’s part of a multi-generational effort to feed the world.
Jennifer’s journey to farming full-time wasn’t straightforward. Before committing entirely to the farm, she worked full-time as a crop insurance agent while helping on the farm part-time. Eventually, she made the decision to dedicate herself completely to her family’s operation, a choice that has proven fulfilling despite the inherent challenges of farming.
A Woman in Agriculture
Jennifer’s role as a female farmer in a traditionally male-dominated industry is both rewarding and challenging. “I’ve been on both sides of it,” she reflects, having worked not only as a farmer but also as a crop insurance agent. “It was even harder as a female crop insurance agent. But now, as a farmer, I am so glad to see more women in agriculture and I’m going to support those ladies. It’s not just a man’s world—it’s a farmer’s world.”
Jennifer is passionate about supporting other women in agriculture. She understands the unique challenges they face, but she’s optimistic about the future. She credits social media for connecting her with other women farmers and staying updated on industry practices, which helps break down barriers in an industry that can feel isolated.
From Labor-Intensive to Labor-Saving
Over the years, Jennifer has witnessed significant changes in farming practices. What started as labor-intensive, with multiple passes over fields to prepare the ground, has transitioned into more sustainable practices like minimum till and no-till farming. Jennifer’s family has embraced innovations like row rice, a system that significantly reduces labor and input costs. “Our motto is ‘It’s either row rice or no rice,’” she says with a smile, emphasizing the efficiency and profitability that this practice brings to their operation.
The Joy of Growing Rice
When asked about her favorite crop, Jennifer’s answer comes without hesitation: rice. She loves everything about it, from the look of the fields to the growth stages of the crop. “Even years ago, when we had levees, I loved the look of the water on the fields. Now, with row rice, it still looks like a blanket out there, and I just love it,” she shares. For Jennifer, rice isn’t just a crop; it’s a passion that runs deep.
Feeding the World, One Bag of Rice at a Time
Farming isn’t just a job for Jennifer; it’s a calling. “It’s awesome knowing that we’re feeding our family and the world,” she says. “We might not have farmers markets to sell our products directly, but seeing Riceland rice on the shelves at the grocery store makes it real. It’s a great feeling knowing that we’re making it to the consumer.”
With over 500 acres of rice planted each year, Jennifer’s operation is a vital part of the larger agricultural ecosystem that feeds families around the globe. It’s a reminder of the hard work, dedication, and faith that drive farmers like Jennifer to persevere season after season.
Faith, Family, and Farming
For Jennifer, farming is more than just crops and acres; it’s about faith and family. “The grace of God keeps us going. We couldn’t do what we do without Him—He’s in every part of it, from the floods to the droughts,” she says, emphasizing the importance of faith in her everyday life on the farm.
Jennifer’s family is integral to the operation. Her husband, Oliver, who previously worked as a parts manager at John Deere, now plays a critical role on the farm. Together, they make a formidable team. Their children are also involved in agriculture in various ways, with one daughter working for the Farm Service Agency, another at Bayer Crop Science, and their son still in high school, exploring his future in the industry.
A Legacy of Stewardship
Jennifer’s commitment to leaving the land better than she found it is a virtue instilled in her by her father. “We’re not wasteful or harmful to the environment—we’re the most beneficial thing to it,” she says proudly. This commitment to stewardship and sustainability ensures that her family’s farm will continue to thrive for generations to come.
As Jennifer looks to the future, she remains hopeful, not just for her operation but for the next generation of farmers. Her advice to young, beginning farmers is simple: surround yourself with dependable people, stay flexible, and be prepared to put in the work.
