Chris Six
Springfield
Digital Journalist at @Kolr10kozl
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Articles by Chris Six
Ugly beans, reduced yields: A farmer's wild soybean season
“The quality is not ideal, but the beans are there,” farmer Nathan White said about his soybean harvest this year. White farms 800 acres of soybeans and 800 acres of corn in Carroll County, Mo. This year, weather had a big impact on his crops, leading to an interesting harvest. White planted a little later than normal in the spring, but those crops had wet feet, and some beans were lost. “The counts weren't there,” he said.
Harvest season playlist brings back memories
A cornfield with a nearby hill filled with trees showing their fall foliage is seen near Finger Lakes in New York. Jonathan W. Cohen/Getty Images “Add some music to your day” is a lyric from a song by my favorite band, The Beach Boys. Ever since I was a kid, music has been a huge part of my daily life. As I’ve aged, music remains a constant in my life, from making mix CDs to playlists for all occasions, to even now playing the ukulele for my daughter.
Missouri teen gains national FFA recognition in dairy production
Jenna Brixey of Norwood is one of 10 Missouri students named a national finalist for the FFA Agricultural Proficiency Award. This recognition means more to her due to the limited resources she had. “You don't have to have the best to be the best,” she said. “I didn't have access to the greatest technology, and I didn't have the greatest resources nearby, so networking was really important.” The proficiency awards honor members who develop specialized skills that they can apply toward their future.
How to protect your crop from a drought fire
Missouri is no stranger to drought conditions around harvest, but those conditions extended well into mid-October. First responders and insurance companies are issuing warnings to farmers to think before going into the field. “Fire damage is funny with crop insurance,” said Ryan Loecker, a crop insurance agent in Nebraska. “A naturally occurring fire is a covered loss. The funny part is, let's say you're a farmer combining your own field. That combine starts a fire.
FFA Star Farmer builds competitive show cattle genetics at 18
“I don’t take those two words lightly,” said Beau Ann Graves, the Missouri FFA Star Farmer recipient. “As somebody that’s trying to promote the agriculture industry and get more people involved and to know the Chillicothe area, it’s truly an honor that people are listening.” Graves’ deep passion for agriculture and the cattle industry shined brightly in her FFA journey. She spent her childhood in the ring showing cattle.
Harvest help: Diesel and weight restrictions lifted for farmers
Temporary fuel relief is here for Missouri farmers, just in time for harvest. Gov. Mike Kehoe signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency that lifts fuel and weight restrictions. “Missouri farmers are working hard to bring in this year’s harvest while facing higher costs at nearly every turn,” Kehoe said.
Want healthier soil? Start by thinking like a banker
Caleb O’Neal likes to say that soil is the farm’s real bank account. “If we want our bank accounts to accumulate wealth, we need to consistently make the sum total of our deposits more than the sum total of our withdrawals,” the University of Missouri Extension field specialist said. “If my harvest takes a certain amount of nutrients away, I, at a bare minimum, need to replace what was taken.” He shared how farmers can manage water and carbon while also building healthy soil for future crops.
How one man saved the Case 150 tractor from extinction
Preserving America’s past. Kory Anderson made that his mission when he was 9 years old after seeing a boiler that belonged to a Case 150 tractor at a show in Minnesota. “It became my dream to see this tractor come back to life,” he said.
‘Eggclusive’: The journey of Vital Farms eggs
Texas-based egg company Vital Farms houses a crucial part of its operation in southwest Missouri, Egg Central Station. “We intentionally located ECS on Interstate 44, in great part because of the collaborative elements that Springfield and the state brought us,” said Mike O’Brien, director of plant operations at ECS. In 2025, ECS averaged a record 45 million eggs processed and packed within a week. The facility has three separate lines to process and package the eggs, and a staff of 450 people.
What kept me rooted in a long journey to becoming a father
My favorite part of fatherhood so far has been reading and playing my ukulele for my daughter while she’s still in the womb. She loves music. Tea’s Photography Big life events have always been exciting for me, with some anxiety sprinkled in. From getting married, to starting a new job, to even branching out in college. Now the most anticipated life event for me is right around the corner: fatherhood. It’s been a long road with many detours along the way.
Get paid to test your soil: New USDA program explained
Missouri farmers have an advantage when it comes to soil sampling, MU soil specialist Muhammad Rasel Parvej said. “Farmers can have their results interpreted using a large Missouri-specific soil health database,” Parvej explained. “Which makes the information more relevant to our soils and management conditions.” During an MU field day this summer, Parvej discussed a new federal cost-share program that pays farmers hundreds for soil health and testing.
How Vital Farms helps producers build wealth through eggs
For a company that partners with more than 600 farmers, Vital Farms has a unique business relationship with those on the ground. Dan Wood, the director of live production, said the farmers come from all backgrounds. “We have a very diverse network of farmers,” he said. “Some are just purely egg producers. We have other farmers that are row croppers, and they have this piece of marginal land that they can't row-crop.” As markets constantly fluctuate, farmers are looking for ways they can diversify.
A sip of Pepsi keeps an 87-year-old farming
At the young age of 87, Bates County, Mo., farmer Eddie Brown is still in the tractor seat. “As long as I can keep going, I'll try to do something,” he said when asked about retirement. His secret to what keeps him going at this age: luck, and a special drink. “I carry a bottle of Pepsi with me; I never drink very much,” Eddie said with a chuckle. “A bottle will last me all day long.
From winery tours to company president: One farmer’s journey
From working in the vineyard as a young boy to owning one of the world’s top wineries, Jon Held’s journey earned him the wine industry’s highest honor. Held, the president of Stone Hill Winery in Hermann, Mo., received the Outstanding Achievement Award from the American Society of Enology and Viticulture-Easter Section this summer. The award recognizes lifetime accomplishments by those who have made contributions to the advancement of enology or viticulture.
From winery tours to company president: One farmer’s journey
From working in the vineyard as a young boy to owning one of the world’s top wineries, Jon Held’s journey earned him the wine industry’s highest honor. Held, the president of Stone Hill Winery in Hermann, Mo., received the Outstanding Achievement Award from the American Society of Enology and Viticulture-Easter Section this summer. The award recognizes lifetime accomplishments by those who have made contributions to the advancement of enology or viticulture.
From the newsroom to the farm: Why safety stories matter
Wearing a helmet while riding an ATV can be a life-changing decision and a way to avoid becoming another crash report statistic.Chris Six This year, I wrote a series of stories about ATV and UTV safety on the farm because safety has always been a big deal to me. Part of my duties when I worked in TV news was to comb through Missouri State Highway Patrol crash reports for incidents to write about. I became so accustomed to them that it took me about 15 minutes to get one posted.
Katz: Top Hamas Terrorist Captured in Gaza
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz attends a ceremony on Aug. 13, 2026, marking the return to the former community of Ganim in northern Samaria, which was evacuated in 2005 as part of Israel’s Disengagement Plan. (Photo by Hilel Ben Or/Flash90) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended his congratulations on the capture of the head of Hamas’s internal security apparatus on Tuesday.
Is organic worth it? 10 questions farmers are asking
As markets fluctuate, farmers look for other opportunities to make money, and one growing market is organic row crops. “Every time commodity prices get low, you see a spike in people transitioning to organic,” said Ethan Miller, director of the Missouri Organic Association. “They're after that premium, and you can get that premium.
Are Missouri farmers losing the water battle?
Infrastructure investments. That’s what University of Missouri agronomist Kelly Nelson said farmers should prioritize to avoid recurring water issues, such as drought or flooding. “It's looking at what limiting factors you have affecting row crop or forage crop productivity year in and year out,” he said.
How grazing cover crops can save farmers money
Farmers across the state are rapidly incorporating cover crops in their corn and soybean fields, said Rob Myers, the director of the University of Missouri Center for Regenerative Agriculture. “We have probably a million acres of cover crops in Missouri,” Myers noted during a cover crop field day earlier this year.
How to prevent shattercane infestations in your fields
Managing shattercane is top of mind for Midwest corn farmers during and after the growing season. Researchers at the University of Missouri are looking into how to limit future infestations. Lidia Myers is studying weed science at MU. She is researching when shattercane seedlings emerge during growing seasons, and if late-season herbicide applications can reduce the viability of seed production from plants that escaped earlier management.
Signs you need to check your baler belt
Checking equipment is a daily chore for farmers, but sometimes one little piece gets overlooked, leading to equipment breakdowns. Zach Kosienski, a product manager with Continental, said farmers need to check baler belts routinely before something happens in the field. “The hay baler itself is like a fine-tuned instrument, where all the components interact with each other,” he said.
How farmers can tap into natural disaster assistance programs
James Smith, a third-generation cattle rancher, could not plan for what headed to his farm. “It hit in the early hours of the morning,” he said. “I ended up getting a call from my mom, and she was crying because my brother's house got hit.” Just two years ago, a tornado tore through rural Ripley County, Mo. According to KFVS 12 in Cape Girardeau, the National Weather Service in Paducah reported that the EF2 tornado began in the southwestern part of Ripley County, lasting nearly 30 miles.
Nurse turned farmer bridges gap between healthcare, ag
What happens when a nurse and a former police officer decide to buy a farm? You get a revitalized nursery that also doubles as a farm stop in southwest Missouri. Since opening in 2021, Harvick Farms has seen tremendous success in the rural community with its education classes, fall and spring festivals, and partnerships with other farmers. But its latest venture came after Lainey Harvick saw a need to help her community better while working her 9-to-5 job at a nearby hospital.
Missouri seeks federal help to combat alpha-gal exposure
A new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that several states, including Missouri, have hundreds of residents with alpha-gal antibodies in their blood. This means the person with antibodies may not have alpha-gal syndrome or need to be tested for it, but it means they were exposed to the alpha-gal molecule.
How the Missouri State Fair is celebrating America
Celebrating 250 years of the United States of America will be at the forefront this year at the Missouri State Fair. Fair attendees will feel the patriotic theme throughout nearly all aspects of the fair, from new events to livestock shows to even the theme of Show-Me Stars & Stripes. “We hope that our farmers really enjoy the way we showcase agriculture and what their industry brings to our state,” said Jason Moore, director of the Missouri State Fair.
Get free soil sampling to test for red crown rot
Red crown rot has caused extensive damage to Illinois soybean fields like this one across the Mississippi River from northeastern Missouri counties where the disease has been confirmed.Mandy Bish Red crown rot is becoming more prevalent in Missouri soybean fields, according to Mandy Bish, University of Missouri Extension plant pathologist.
How to eat comfortably with alpha-gal syndrome
Alec and Katrina Hagan have learned the ins and outs of alpha-gal syndrome since Alec was diagnosed with the tick-borne disease three years ago. At the time, he was working as an ag teacher at Republic High School. He noticed his symptoms were getting worse on the job. “It got to the point where walking in the barns would start to cause some flare-ups,” he said.
Field days are best way to improve agriculture knowledge
Ivair Valmorbida, University of Missouri Extension state crops entomologist, shares the latest findings on crop pests.Photos by Mindy Ward In July, I attended my second University of Missouri Extension Crop and Pest Management field day, but this time it was a little different.
Tick-borne allergy explodes in Missouri
Alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-borne disease, is a food allergy that leads to a variety of reactions to mammalian products, such as red meat and dairy. The disease is spreading fast across America, and among Missouri farmers and in rural communities. “I started off with the one daughter that had alpha-gal syndrome,” said Missouri state Rep. Matthew Overcast, R-Ava.
Corn leafhoppers arrive early: What you need to know
They’re back. Corn leafhoppers have been spotted in Missouri again. Ivair Valmorbida, University of Missouri Extension state crops entomologist, said the pest was found in Boone County cornfields. “Corn leafhoppers were collected directly from corn plants at the V5 growth stage,” he said. “No corn leafhopper nymphs were found, suggesting these adults are migrants from the southern United States.” The detection of corn leafhoppers in late June is three weeks earlier than in 2025.
Former first family answers higher calling to empower farmers
For former Missouri Gov. Mike Parson and his wife, Teresa, life after Jefferson City meant going home and living a retired lifestyle, spending time on the farm and with family. But they felt called to continue serving. After all, they’ve served their whole lives, so why stop now? That mentality led them to new opportunities with Convoy of Hope. “I got to thinking when I got out, ‘OK, what am I going to do?’” Mike Parson said.
How smart technology is revolutionizing modern cattle ranching
Agricultural innovation is a top priority at The 808 Ranch, where cutting-edge technologies continue to enhance cattle management, improve safety and promote sustainable grazing practices. “The 808 Ranch is always one that is looking for technology that makes it simpler, that makes us more efficient and that helps us to get more work done,” said Lamar Steiger, CEO and owner of The 808 Ranch, which is located across sites in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas.
How Missouri is dealing with alpha-gal syndrome outbreak
Alpha-gal syndrome is a growing concern with more Missourians being diagnosed or experiencing symptoms, but medical professionals and the state Legislature are stepping up to help the afflicted.
How to catch pest populations early before they explode
Now that the crops are planted and growing, it’s time to scout — if you haven’t started already. Agronomists from Pioneer and University of Missouri Extension shared the best tips and practices for scouting corn and soybeans for pests. “The first thing you’ll want to do is go throughout the field and take a look at your overall uniformity of emergence,” said Jonathan Rotz, Pioneer strategic account manager.
Take a tour of The 808 Ranch
play_arrowStart slideshow The view from the overlook at The 808 Ranch is absolutely breathtaking. The ranch sits to the left in the photo, alongside the Elk River in Anderson, Mo.Whitney Shannon The 808 Ranch is exemplary of a strong sense of teamwork and responsible ranching. Ranch owner, Lamar Steiger, is very focused on taking care of the land, livestock and those who work on the ranch. In the six years since the ranch was purchased, Steiger has expanded its footprint.
Ranch’s approach to Black Angus production is shifting future of U.S. beef
A glance across the pastures of The 808 Ranch is proof this family operation is well thought out, from conservation projects down to fine details to the logos on their pickup trucks that match the monograms on their shirts. But the story runs much deeper than just looks, and it doesn’t take long to recognize that brand consistency extends well beyond the logo.
How to avoid pesticide poisoning when spraying
For crop growers, late spring and early summer is about application — from nutrients, to water, to pesticides. But University of Missouri Extension has issued a stern reminder for those who spray chemicals: Be smart and monitor your health. “Serious pesticide poisoning is not every day, but exposures are common enough to take seriously,” said Rusty Lee, an MU Extension agronomist.
Reflections on 1 year of covering Missouri agriculture
Last year, I took a leap of faith into an industry I knew little about: agriculture. At the time, I had been in journalism for 12 years, so those aspects of working for a news organization weren’t foreign to me, but the ag lingo was. While the move came with some struggles, of course — farm phrases and print magazine flow — but I’m glad I took that leap with Missouri Ruralist and Farm Progress. Show-Me growth My agriculture knowledge has indeed grown, but so have my skills as a journalist.
Cruise down Route 66, visit some of Missouri’s best small towns
The Queen’s Gate 66 is a newly constructed statue on Route 66 in Springfield, Mo., marking a special stop for travelers along the Mother Road in the Show-Me State. Chris Six There’s a lot to celebrate in America this year — our nation’s 250th birthday for one and the 100th anniversary of the creation of the Mother Road: Route 66. Stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, there was plenty to do during the highway’s heyday. All these years later, there is still so much to do along the historic route.
Elementary school’s focus on agriculture builds next-gen farmers
The future of agriculture is no doubt in the hands of the next generation, many of whom are already part of organizations such as 4-H or FFA. But in Springfield, Mo., future ag leaders are growing in the Springfield Public Schools district. AgAcademy is a magnet choice school program in which students can apply through a lottery to attend. At the school, about 150 fourth through sixth grade students learn their regular curriculum, but with a focus on agriculture.
92 Days Of Summer
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Missouri’s new FFA president shows her passion for agriculture
From graduating high school to being named Missouri FFA president, Bolivar native Ellie Samek is having quite the year. “I don't know if it's fully sunk in yet, thinking that the people I once saw on that stage or heard give speeches at FFA camp, that's now the shoes that I'm filling,” she said.
Small dairy bets big on growing niche milk market
After nearly 15 years, Brett and Jessica Dixon are living their dream as dairy farmers and producing a niche type of milk for consumers with dairy sensitivities. In 2011, the couple moved away from their family farms in Missouri and started Stil Dreamn Dairy in the southwest region of the state. What’s special about Stil Dreamn is the type of milk produced by their roughly 70 head of Guernsey and Ayrshire cows — A2A2 milk. What is A2A2 milk?
Flower farmers make the most out of agritourism venture
These days more farmers are branching out to find additional ways to make money on the farm, from U-pick fruits and vegetables patches to Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) ventures. One Minnesota farm, Honken Farms, has found great success in finding new revenue streams. The Rice County farm started as a dairy, but 30 years ago when Dan Honken took over the family farm’s operations, he turned it into a 120-head beef cattle operation.
How one tick bite sparked a new farm-to-table business model
Farm-to-table is not a new concept, but for some Missouri farmers, it became a new opportunity to generate business with a Springfield restaurant. For years, Alec and Katrina Hagan have been battling dietary restrictions from lupus (her) to Alpha-gal syndrome (him). “I was brush-hogging — my parents bought some property up on the river —and there was a big ol’ tick in the middle of my chest,” Alec said.
Despite wild weather, early-planted corn starts strong
“My dad used to have this saying that if the weather cooperates, you can plant pretty much any time,” southwest Missouri farmer John Samek said. “And if the weather doesn't cooperate, it doesn't matter when you plant.” Weather was a big factor in the Polk County farmer’s planting schedule. On this diversified farm, he plants corn and soybeans on 800 acres. Cattle are on land near Bolivar. Samek started planting beans in late March, and then he switched to corn.
Scenes from Emmett Kelly Day celebration of clowns
play_arrowStart slideshow For the past few years, a small Missouri town has turned its main street into a circus city for its most famous resident, circus clown legend Emmett Kelly. Kelly made the world smile through his unforgettable "Weary Willie" character. The celebration, now recognized as a statewide day on the last Saturday in April, kicked off with a 5K with runners dressed in their best clown costume.
Famed circus clown brings economic boost to rural Missouri
Did you know the man behind the famous circus clown Weary Willie started with humble beginnings in rural Missouri? Famed Missourian Emmett Kelly grew up on a farm just outside Houston, Mo., in Texas County. “His mother raised chickens. She would use her egg money to support my dad's drawing lessons,” said Stasia Kelly, Emmett’s eldest daughter. “He did correspondence courses where he really fine-tuned his cartooning ability.
Thinking about converting cropland to pasture? Hold that thought
With a fluctuating market for crops and high prices for cattle, some producers may want to transition lower-producing cropland into pasture for cattle grazing, but agriculture business experts warn farmers to pump the brakes before making the switch. Wesley Tucker, a University of Missouri Extension ag business specialist, answers nine questions on whether producers should make the switch: 1. What are the key challenges involved in transitioning cropland to grazing ground?
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