Hauling in the Hay
The craft of operating a hay farm was always in Cole Yanta’s blood. After his great-great-grandfather settled in South Texas in the 1850s, the Yanta family has been managing a multi-generational coastal hay operation for more than 100 years. Yanta Hay Farms, located in Medina and Uvalde counties, is known for the quality of their product and the time and value invested in their family business.
“We grow quality coastal hay in square and round bales marketed throughout the state of Texas,” said Cole. “I am the fifth-generation farmer in my family, and I work alongside my father and grandfather still to this day, even while starting my own operation.”
Capital Farm Credit is no stranger to Cole and the Yanta family. With a relationship dating back more than a decade, when it was time to pursue a new venture, Cole knew the team who could provide next generation support.
“My parents have been working with Capital Farm Credit for 15 years, and I have had the pleasure to work with them for just over a year now,” said Cole.
“My relationship with Capital Farm Credit has been nothing but great. My loan officer has been great to work with. She took care of my loan and kept me updated during the whole process,” he added.
Evolution of committing to excellence has been a family learned skill that has helped Cole dream bigger while valuing his deep family roots.
“Some of my goals are to have a family of my own, and to raise my kids the same way I was raised here on the farm. I believe it’s a great place and lifestyle to live. I hope to increase the size of my operation and to leave a legacy for myself and the next generation.”
Capital Farm Credit’s AgriRoots programs support the next generation of ag producers whether they are beginning, small or young operators. Our goal is to be the resource needed to plant tomorrow’s harvest. Business planning and understanding the building blocks of a successful operation are fundamentals available through Capital Farm Credit’s AgriRoots programs.
“My sister has recently become part of the operation and is currently assisting the farm by enhancing our social media presence and our day-to-day bookkeeping. Our whole family is involved in the business, and it is a big part of its success.”
The Capital Farm Credit NextGen loan program is designed to offer flexibility in loan products and interest rates to serve beginning borrowers intending to grow into a commercially viable operation. Interested in learning more? Visit our NextGen Loan page for more information and qualifications.
When asked what advice Cole would give to beginning operators like himself, he shared, “You reap what you sow. If you put in the hard work and effort, you will succeed. Things will not always be easy, but it allows you to learn and grow.”
To learn more about Yanta Farms you can visit their website or social media channels.