In it for the long haul: Family transitions from trucking to cattle business and grows family farm

By Lura Roti for South Dakota Farmers Union
Sep 4, 2025
Sep 4, 2025

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On a Monday evening in April 2023, the Minnehaha County Commission approved a request to build a 450-head hoop barn for calving and feeder cattle.

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With the future of Triple Z Angus in mind, Taylor Zeutenhorst is focused on herd genetics and implemented a cross-breeding program. “Head count is nothing if the genetics are no good,” Zeutenhorst said. “I would rather have fewer cows and have them be good mothers and offspring that are healthy, productive and have a good temperament.”
Submitted photo

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The Zomer and Zeutenhorst families raise crops and cattle. The main farm is in Valley Springs, S.D.
SDFU photo

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Taylor Zeutenhorst poses with his father-in-law, John Zomer and brother-in-law, Caleb Zomer.
Submitted photo

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Zomer hoop barn 1.jpg — John and Stacy Zomer with daughter and son-in-law Samantha and Taylor Zeutenhorst pose on the family’s Minnehaha County farm.
SDFU photo

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Find more photos of the Zomer-Zeutenhorst family and read other stories of South Dakota farm and ranch families at www.sdfu.org.