The Cowsers: A Family Farm Thriving in Today's Agriculture
Established by Delbert Cowser in the 1930s near Glasford, Ill., Cowser Inc. has grown into a cornerstone of agricultural excellence. This family-run farm, recognized as the 2020 Illinois Pork Producers Association Farm Family of the Year, is now managed by seven dedicated family members: brothers Steve, Marc, Andy and Darin, and the next generation, Alan, Seth and Cheryl Cowser-Walsh. Their intergenerational effort has ensured that the farm remains a thriving enterprise in the heart of Illinois.
A LEGACY OF FAMILY FARMING
The Cowser family has been farming for four generations, with roots dating back to 1932. Delbert Cowser started with an 80-acre farm, which expanded to 300 acres before relocating to the Elmore Stock Farm in 1951. Today, the family continues to raise pigs — a tradition from the start. In 1999, they acquired a breed-to-wean barn, currently weaning about 1,200 pigs weekly, sold to Land O’Lakes. Alongside pig farming, the Cowsers grow corn, soybeans and hay, and conduct custom farming. They also maintain a small cow-calf herd, adding diversification to the operation.
Since acquiring the sow farm, Cowser Inc. has adapted to modern farming demands with advanced biosecurity measures, including mandatory showers for all individuals entering and exiting the farm, a fumigation room for supplies, dedicated transportation equipment and a truck wash to minimize external traffic. Such stringent protocols help ensure the health and safety of the family’s livestock operations.
“We take biosecurity very seriously,” explained Cheryl Cowser-Walsh. “It’s crucial to keep our animals healthy and our operations running smoothly.”
CENTERING COMMUNITY
Beyond the barns, the Cowsers are active members of the Peoria County Farm Bureau and various local committees, contributing to agricultural education through programs like Agriculture in the Classroom. Cheryl, affectionately known as “The Peoria County Pig Lady,” currently serves as president on the Illinois Pork Producers Association board.
“Being involved in these organizations helps us advocate for the agricultural community and educate the next generation,” she said.
COLLABORATION & ADAPTATION
Working alongside her father, uncles, brother and cousin, Cheryl finds immense value in the collaborative nature of their farm. Each family member has carved out a niche based on their strengths, helping the farm succeed through teamwork and mutual support. Weekly conference calls help the family coordinate their efforts, plan for the week ahead and adapt to the unpredictable nature of farming.
For Cheryl, farming is more than a profession — it’s a lifelong passion. The ever-changing nature of farm work, from office tasks to hands-on labor with livestock and crops, keeps her engaged and motivated. Witnessing the tangible results of her efforts and contributing to feeding the world solidify her commitment to the agricultural lifestyle.
“I’ve been around this my whole life,” she said. “I enjoy being outside. You can see the fruits of your labor and you can see progress happening.”
The Cowser family’s partnership with Compeer Financial has been a longstanding one, initiated by Cheryl’s grandfather, Rodger, and uncle, Steve. Cheryl noted that Compeer’s understanding of agriculture, willingness to learn and the cooperative’s guidance through both challenging and prosperous times has made Compeer an invaluable partner for the Cowsers.
“One of the biggest things I like about Compeer is they understand our business, they’re willing to learn about our business and they help guide us,” she said. “They’ve been there with us in some pretty rough times, and they’ve been there with us for the good times, too.”
Cowser Inc. stands as a testament to the power of family, tradition and adaptation in agriculture. With each generation building on the legacy of the previous one, the Cowsers continue to thrive, contribute to their community and advocate for the future of farming.
This article was taken from the 2024 fall edition of Cultivate. Read more from this issue here.