Schoen Farms

Schoen Farms is truly a family affair as it is a fourth-generation dairy started by Marvin and LaFerne Schoen.  Their son, John and wife Teri, and their children Matt, Melinda and Corvin; Cathy and husband, David and son Kyle; have for many years selected top genetics to improve their herd of registered and commercial Holstein and Shorthorn dairy cattle.

The Schoen’s significantly focus on the genetics of the herd incorporating many Holstein Association USA programs. The evidence of this improvement is displayed in the continued increased milk production and herd BAA scores.  Breeding for balanced cows has resulted in animals obtaining scores in the very good to excellent range and production records reaching over 25,000 lbs of milk.  One of their highest honors was having one of their cows named Missouri Cow of the Year.

John and Cathy have done renovations including new facilities for the calves, heifers, breeding stock, free stall barn and a new milking facility. They are currently constructing a new dry cow barn.  They have used their facilities and cows as a teaching and mentoring center for their community, state agricultural industry outreach, and young dairy producer mentoring.  The Schoen’s also provided the land/facility to operate a milk transfer station to serve the area dairy producers transportation service.

The fourth generation is active in all parts of the farm.  Kyle is involved with the crop work on the farm.  Matt serves as management and raises the young stock.  Corvin is the herdsman and is in charge of the technology and bio security of the farm; and Melinda focuses on the breeding selections and human resources.  There are many other family members that have roles as well keeping the operation functioning smoothly.  The fifth generation is strong behind!

Marvin was active in the Missouri Holstein Association serving as president and was on the Mid-America dairy board. John currently serves on the Prairie Farms Cooperative board and has served one-term as vice president.  In the past, he was on the Mid-south DHIA board.  John has been a wonderful mentor to lots of young people and he has served the industry in many capacities.  He has been a major part of the dairy cattle judging contest at the Cape Girardeau County Fair.  The family is also active in local school and community programs.