fbpx

​From White House to Farmhouse

Maryland’s Stabler family earns the 2024 Certified Angus Beef Ambassador Award.

by Courtney Weekley

September 20, 2024

It’s only 33 miles from the White House steps to Pleasant Valley Farms’ driveway. In a metro that seems to grow by the day, the Stabler family of Brookeville, Maryland, stands out as a beacon of agricultural dedication and community engagement. Established in 1954, three generations of Stablers work side by side on their farm today.

“The farm has always been a place where our family comes together,” Kelsey Stabler says. “It’s not just about the work we do, but the bonds we build and the values we uphold.”

Blending tradition and innovation seamlessly across the land they care for, and willingness to share their excitement for the Angus breed and raising high-quality beef earned them the 2024 Certified Angus Beef (CAB) Ambassador Award. The family received their award at the 2024 CAB Annual Conference in Verona, New York, in September.

By the Busload

Kelsey Stabler and sister Shelby Stabler Stambaugh play crucial roles in daily operations, extending beyond the farm’s borders. They’ve become key ambassadors for CAB, hosting and educating large groups of brand partners, most recently some 300 Sysco representatives.

“Hosting these groups not only allows us to educate others but also reinforces our own commitment to excellence,” Kelsey says. “Seeing visitors’ reactions and their newfound appreciation for agriculture is incredibly rewarding.”

Their proximity to cities on the East Coast makes it convenient for the Stablers to host a wide range of visitors. Tours include hands-on experiences and highlight environmental and sustainable practices, providing a comprehensive understanding of cattle care and the importance of quality in every step of the operation.

“We love opening our farm to guests. It’s a chance to show them the ins and outs of what we do, from our cattle operations to our conservation efforts,” Shelby says. “It’s an honor to represent CAB and share the impact of our work.”

Angus for Generations

At the heart of their operation is the Angus herd, which has grown to more than 200 cows. The Stablers are committed to balanced genetics.

“Our goal is to produce the best Angus cattle possible, balancing both maternal and terminal traits,” Kelsey says. “We want to provide high-quality beef to our local community while maintaining the health and productivity of our herd.”

Randy Stabler, Kelsey and Shelby’s father, emphasizes the importance of farm’s history.

“We take pride in sharing our story and the CAB story with others. It’s a way for us to showcase the quality and dedication that goes into every aspect of our farm,” he says.

For decades, the Stablers have implemented no-till farming, a practice deeply rooted in the family’s farming heritage. No-till farming preserves soil structure, reduces erosion and promotes biodiversity, ensuring a sustainable farm for future generations.

“It’s about more than producing food,” Kelsey says. “It’s about being stewards of the land and ensuring that we leave something better for the next generation.” The Stablers’ commitment to Angus extends beyond their farm, from involvement in junior Angus programs since the sisters were young. That instilled a deep Angus understanding and passion for the industry, which they now bring to their roles on the farm and in their community.

At the Farmstand

In an area where farming families are increasingly rare, the Stablers’ dedication to their community is especially significant. Their Pleasant Valley Produce stand has become a valued resource, allowing sales of their products directly to consumers and fostering strong local connections. The stand offers a variety of fresh, seasonal produce, including retail beef cuts that have become a staple for local residents.

“People appreciate having a local source of food,” Shelby says. “Especially being so close to D.C., where farming is a rarity, our stand offers something unique and essential.”

The farm’s operation is a true family affair, with Randy’s daughters stepping up to take on significant responsibilities. That ensures the farm’s continuity and success, with values passed down from Bob Stabler, Randy’s father, and his grandfather as well.

“My father instilled in us the values of hard work and integrity,” Bob says. “Seeing my children and grandchildren carry on that legacy fills me with immense pride.”

At Pleasant Valley Farm, the Stabler family is not just raising cattle and crops, they are cultivating a legacy of commitment to sustainability and community engagement that will endure for generations to come.

 

You may also like

Noble Research Institute and Certified Angus Beef Launch Partnership Centered on Promoting Land Management for Livestock Producers

Noble Research Institute and Certified Angus Beef Launch Partnership Centered on Promoting Land Management for Livestock Producers

Land Stewardship, launching November 2024, is an extension of Noble’s educational curriculum and offers an introduction to soil health principles and its effects on ecosystem processes. This free, online program is available for producers of all sizes and locations to gain insights into healthy soil, better grazing animal performance and a more resilient and profitable operation.

Customer First Mentality

Customer First Mentality

When potential buyers fill the Connealy Angus sale barn, they’re not just there for the genetics but the customer service guarantee. For getting that and a lot more right, Connealy Angus was recognized with the 2024 Certified Angus Beef Seedstock Commitment to Excellence award.

From Modest Beginnings to Excellence

From Modest Beginnings to Excellence

Gilchrist Farm recently received the 2024 Certified Angus Beef Canadian Commitment to Excellence award. This prestigious honor recognizes their exceptional achievements in high-quality Angus genetics and management. Over the years, they have transformed their operation by embracing superior Angus genetics. Their commitment to high standards and innovative practices has distinguished them as a model of excellence in the industry.