Rowantree Farm: Where Sustainability Meets Curiosity
After accepting jobs in northeastern Kansas, Collen McGee and her husband, Michael, wanted to try their hands at raising livestock. Inspired by her mother who owned a yarn shop, the couple purchased pygora and cashmere goats, and thus, Rowantree Farm was founded right outside of Abilene, Kansas.
The McGees' operation specializes in wool and fiber products, along with farm tours and a small farm store featuring local products, ranging from retail grass-fed beef, eggs, honey, and of course, local yarns.
“We wanted to showcase that these are real farmers producing real things,” Collen said.
When many of us think of wool, fiber or yarn, we may not initially think of their versatility. However, Rowantree Farm pushes for sustainable practices. From craft materials to pet bed filling, the possibilities are endless.
“Being able to watch the process from the animal to finish is really cool,” Collen says.
While wool and fiber are the primary focus at Rowantree Farm, educating others about production agriculture is a passion of the McGee’s. The farm serves as an agritourism site with free admission. When asked about a favorite memory involving a tour, Collen shared a story featuring her husband and a young boy. The boy was fascinated about the livestock and was so excited to learn from Collen’s husband, who did not give tours very often, as he is more on the quiet side.
“He really was in his happy place that day,” Collen said with a smile.
Although International Women’s Day is celebrated in March, we are always excited to be able to share the success of female agriculturalists across Kansas. When asked if she had any words of wisdom for women wanting to start operations of their own, Collen had plenty of sound advice.
“Don’t be afraid to geek out and research,” she said. “Take advantage of programs, whether that’s local 4-H and FFA clubs or From the Land of Kansas. Also, don’t be afraid to be less than perfect and always have fun with what you do.”
It's always an enjoyment to see what our members are up to, and besides, what could be cuter than goats? Be sure to stay updated with all of the happenings with Rowantree Farm on Facebook.
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