Wharton 3C ranch's sustainable transformation

By Scout Nelson

Wharton 3C Ranch in Syracuse, Kansas, has transformed from a drought-prone area to a green oasis in 2023. The ranch, which spans 35,000 acres, houses around 600 cattle and has a conservation easement. Shannon and Rusty Wharton, who have been managing it since 2005, have become its proud owners since 2017.

They combine resilience, innovation, and business acumen, relying on science and data for management. They prioritize quality not only in beef but also in the land, tracking everything from cattle birth to final product since the '90s. This approach results in a significant percentage of cattle meeting Certified Angus Beef standards, leading to improved profits.

But the Whartons are about more than profits. They believe in unity and collaboration. Every player in the beef production chain is crucial. From the cow-calf producer to the packer and commercial producers, everyone has a role in delivering top-quality beef.

One of their major collaborations is with the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (USRSB). It's a platform that aligns with their philosophy, allowing stakeholders from the producer to the retailer to ensure sustainable, quality beef production.

Rusty Wharton emphasizes the essence of sustainability. Proper management, from grazing plans to customer relations, is the key. Rusty values the role of technology and organized data for effective decision-making, especially during challenging times.

The USRSB experience was more than just learning for the Whartons. It improved their communication about their commitment to sustainable beef farming. They've been practicing these principles for a long time, but USRSB gave them a platform to articulate it better.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-pamwalker68