July 2026

 

Summer is definitely upon us due to the heat and humidity we've been having over the last week or so, and it looks like it's going to continue through July.

This is a time when we do start seeing a lot of heat stress in cattle, especially the dark-hided cows. The brown, black, and red hides—anything that's dark—tends to retain more heat, so we see those animals hovering under the trees a lot more.

At this time of year, we try to make sure all of our cattle are in pastures with trees to give them extra shade. Under a tree with a little breeze, the temperature can feel 10 to 15 degrees cooler, which is a huge difference for the animals. So during the summertime, we try to maintain pastures that have both good grass and plenty of trees, allowing those animals to find a shaded area throughout the day.

With the grass growing so quickly because of the rain, fence maintenance has become a priority. As grass grows up along the fence lines, we have to stay on top of keeping those areas maintained.

We've also been blessed with an abundant amount of grass here at the ranch this summer, which is great. We have a lot of pastures to choose from, but it also means we have to clip certain areas because we simply can't graze it all.

We could use some of those pastures for hay, but we'd rather graze them out. Clipping also provides a little weed suppression, helping keep unwanted plants under control. That way, when we do want to make hay in the fall, those pastures are already in good shape and ready to go.

So we're clipping those areas whenever we can right now. Of course, that means bouncing back and forth between the rain and the clipping schedule, which is just another one of Mother Nature's deals.

Want to hear more from Shannon? Watch Episode 11 of Back to Basics here.

News Roundup

From Our Pastures to New Orleans

Earlier this month, Gonsoulin Land & Cattle grass-fed beef was featured at the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation's annual dinner in New Orleans.

We're honored that our beef was included in a meal prepared by some of Louisiana's most respected chefs and hospitality professionals. Events like these are a reminder that great food begins long before it reaches the kitchen. It starts with the farmers, ranchers, chefs, and countless others who care deeply about their craft.

Special thanks to Susan Spicer, Chef Isaac Toups and the Toups Family Meal team, Chef Michael Stoltzfus, Lyn Morein, and everyone who helped create such a memorable evening while supporting an important cause.

From our pastures to the plate, thank you for supporting Louisiana agriculture.

Summer Vegetables Are Here

Summer has officially arrived in South Louisiana, and so have the fresh vegetables.

The Farm Store is stocked with seasonal produce perfect for grilling, roasting, and adding to your favorite summer meals. Whether you're planning a backyard cookout or looking for ingredients for weeknight dinners, now is a great time to enjoy the flavors of the season.

Stop by regularly—availability changes with the harvest, and some of our most popular items don't stay on the shelves for long.

New to Grassfed Beef? Start with a Bundle

Interested in grass-fed beef but not quite ready to commit to a quarter, half, or whole beef?

Our beef bundles are designed to help you experience the quality, flavor, and variety of grass-fed beef without needing a large freezer.

Choose from:

🥩 Ranch Bundles (available in Small, Medium, and Large)

🔥 BBQ Bundles featuring Ground Beef, Top Sirloin, and New York Strip Steaks

🍲 Gravy Lover Bundles packed with roasts, round steak, and soup rounds perfect for slow-cooked meals

Many of our quarter, half, and whole beef customers started with a bundle first. It's an easy way to discover your favorite cuts and find the option that's right for your family.

Visit the Farm Store or shop online to see all available bundle options.