Brauer Farm LLC
Russell Wolf
Hometown: Tipton, MO
Farming Since: 1994
Russell is married to his wife, Stacey, where they have two children. He grew up on a farm where his family raised hogs, cattle and had row crops. Then married into a row-crop family in central Missouri, where he is now a partner in Brauer Farm’s LLC. He raises soybeans, corn and occasionally wheat. In Russell’s spare time, he enjoys camping and boating with his family at Truman Lake.
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Farmer Q&A
Tell us a little about yourself.
I’ve been married to Stacey for 33 years, and we have two grown children. I grew up on a farm with my parents and six other siblings. Our family enjoys camping and boating on Truman Lake. I follow the Cards and Chiefs. I really enjoy talking to others that will listen about our family’s farm. My family lovingly calls it “Farming Out Loud!”
Tell us a little about your farm.
I married into a row-crop family in central Missouri. I helped on the farm after work and on weekends until I had the opportunity to become a partner. We raise soybeans, corn and sometimes wheat. My brother-in-law, Chris, and I also operate an excavating company that does farm improvements such as terraces, waterways and drain tile.
What is something that makes you feel proud to be involved in agriculture?
I’ve had the unique opportunity to travel to the Panama Canal, Costa Rica, Boston and New York, learning from and speaking with end users of U.S. soy through programs offered by the United Soybean Board. I am on the board of Missouri Soybean Association, American Soybean Association and a member of Missouri Farm Bureau.
“First, find your passion, then look into where that passion could fit. Agriculture is changing so fast that most anyone could find that job that doesn’t feel like work. For those school aged kids, join FFA. There is so much to learn from ag science to public speaking to hands on experiences. They just might find a passion they didn’t know existed in them.”
Should tractors be red or green?
We are a green farm, I think mostly because the closest dealer is green.
What is your favorite planting or harvest snack?
Anything sweet and salty. I particularly like Sweet and Salty Nut Bars and cashews.
What are you listening to while working?
I listen to farm radio for the markets, talk radio and classic rock when I need to stay awake.
I’ve had a lifetime of great memories on the farm, but I would say it is the sound of my dad’s John Deere A starting up and running. There’s just something about the sweet sound of a Johnny Popper!”
Who is your biggest influence?
My biggest influence was my dad. Through his actions, he taught me the value of hard work and care of the land. From my father-in-law, I gained the drive to keep up with current practices and a willingness to try new methods. My wife and family keep me grounded and continue to lift me up to be a better person.
Do you incorporate any sustainable practices on your farm?
We have built many miles of terraces, waterways and drain tiles on our farm. We are no-till and minimum-till farmers. Lately, we have been implementing cover crops to improve soil health and reduce erosion.