The COVID-19 pandemic brought many things to light, including the need for beef. During the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association Convention, those in attendance heard from Watford City, North Dakota ranchers CJ and Calli Thorne, who operate Triangle M Ranch and Feedlot. The couple saw an opportunity to direct market their beef as the coronavirus pandemic ramped up. “We’ve always been a cow/calf operation with a backgrounding feedlot,” says Calli. “My husband saw what was happening in both the cattle markets and the supply chain. So, we really had to think about what we could do instead.” Ultimately, the Thornes had the idea to finish and direct market their own beef. Hear more of the story, including how they are connecting with consumers, in this Red River Farm Network interview.
