Welcome back to the final installment in our special Female Farmer Friday featuring the women of The Cowboy Way on INSP. This week we meet Misty Harris, a barrel racer turned cattle farmer slash nurse. I feel a camaraderie with Misty with the shared rodeo background and the struggles and successes of building a cattle operation from the ground up with her husband. I can’t wait for you to meet her – welcome, Misty!
Sara Beth

Please briefly introduce yourself.

Hi!  My name is Misty Harris. I am thirty-one years young, and I live in Robertsdale, Alabama, with my husband, Cody and son, Carter. We operate our farm, Full Moon Cattle Company, together and raise cross-bred cattle and blue heelers.

 What type of farm do you have?

My husband and I own and operate Full Moon Enterprises, which includes all forms of services in land, fence, and cattle. Our business has branched into the above categories and we offer unique services in each.  

In regards to cattle, we raise and sell cross-bred cattle and pride ourselves in offering “front pasture” quality cattle to our buyers. We feature our cattle and other high-quality cattle from our area in our bi-annual special sale, “The Dixie Darlin’.”

Full Moon Fence is now recognized as one of the largest fence companies in the Southeast and provides services in all aspects of fencing. Our team can also handle any land-management needs that our customers may have.

How long have you been farming?

I personally did not start raising cattle until later in my life. I spent my youth and early adulthood barrel-racing, and at that time, I lacked experience in farming. When I learned that Cody and I were expecting our son, I made the decision to stop competing and switched my focus to the cattle industry. 

 Do you have an off-farm job?

I do have an off-farm job! After high-school, I attended William Carey University where I received my bachelor’s degree in nursing. I did not want my licenses to go without use, so I still practice nursing on an as-needed basis at a surgery center.

Please share with us one of the biggest struggles you have with farming.

One of the biggest struggles that we have with our operation is the need for more land. Because we live close to a popular beach, the land is very expensive and the farm land is quickly turning into subdivisions. 

What is something about your farm life that you think would surprise most people?

Most people may be surprised that Cody and I have grown our operation from the ground up. We are first-generation farmers, and we hope to lay a solid foundation for our children to build on and expand.

Can you share one of your long-term goals for your farm?

One of my long-term goals for our operation is to continue to grow Full Moon Enterprises, while also maintaining our quality. 

If you had the chance to tell one thing to someone without any first-hand knowledge of the farming industry, what would it be?

I would tell someone without any first-hand knowledge of the farming industry to educate themselves on the significance of farming in our everyday lives. Farming is oftentimes overlooked and unappreciated, but it plays a constant role in the products we use and food we eat. 

What do you think is the biggest misconception about agriculture?

I think one of the biggest misconceptions about agriculture is that those involved in raising livestock mistreat their animals. That is absolutely not true. Those that raise livestock risk everything and put all of their resources into raising and growing happy and healthy animals.

What is something you are deeply passionate about?

I am deeply passionate about growing Full Moon Enterprises. Cody and I have a great time working hard and seeing the fruits of our labor.

What is one book you think everyone should check out?

I may sound partial, but I truly think everyone should check out my husband’s book, My Word is My Bond. Cody does a great job communicating to his readers and his followers on social media. Follow him on Instagram @officialcodyharris

If people want to follow your farm journey, where can they find you?

www.FullMoonCattle.com

Instagram: @mistyharris_  and @fullmooncattleFacebook: @mistyharrisbama  and @fullmooncattle

More information on The Cowboy Way:
The Cowboy Way sets the stage for real-life cowboy adventures. This one-hour series follows three modern-day cowboys – Bubba, Cody, and Booger – as they build their business in south Alabama herding cattle, breaking horses and tilling fields. The Old West meets the Deep South with these buddies who live by a cowboy code that is as important to them today as it was to those who first tamed the Old West. They work hard, play hard and depend on each other. They love their families and the rugged life they’ve chosen. Their days may not be easy, but these three friends wouldn’t have it any other way. Previous seasons are available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, Roku and Tubi, and a 7th season has already been confirmed.