bronson corn

Ranches run deep in history and are a true testament to how our producers are stewards of the land. This is true for Bronson Corn, a fifth-generation rancher and a lifetime resident of Roswell, New Mexico. His family's operation started in 1872, when his ancestors moved to settle on the land in Roswell. To this day, through many hardships along the way, the land is still in operation. Bronson’s dedication to continuing the legacy for his family's operation is rooted in passion and hard work. 

Perseverance Through Hard Times

“Hard times create strong men, strong men create good times, good times create weak men, and weak men create hard times. That is the quote I try to live by knowing that periods of hardship can help foster resilience and strength,” said Bronson. This has shown itself to be true in an inspirational part of Bronson’s story. Even through hard times, he has not compromised his passion and dedication to the family legacy of the land. Alongside the cattle and goat operation, the Corn family used to run a sheep herd as well. However, devastating attacks from coyotes and the regulations against hunting predators resulted in a sellout of the sheep operation. This was not easy by any means, but Bronson understood that sometimes you must make difficult business decisions. 

Speaking of decisions... In 2011-2015, Roswell, NM received five inches of rain, total. Working in an industry that is very weather dependent can make it hard in times such as this. Bronson, however, realized selling out of the cattle industry wasn’t an option, and they had to figure something else out. He took this opportunity to build a feedyard to supplement the cows on the pasture. Now, this innovation has allowed him to not only provide supplementation when needed, but also to run a preconditioning yard throughout the winter. Now in a typical year, Bronson will run about 600 Mexican steers for 60 days, sell them, and bring in the next set. This has allowed him to maintain and manage his facilities year-round. It is because of these decisions that even in times of record low cattle numbers, this industry has a continuation of beef supply for our consumers.  

Innovation on the Land

Truly a steward of the land, Bronson has implemented a rotational grazing system that has allowed him to utilize all parts of the diverse landscape in New Mexico. From mountains to high plains to rolling hills to canyons, the landscape has its benefits and downfalls. Bronson has taken this as an opportunity to utilize grazing management efforts to run cattle on all sections. This decision has directly impacted the land by increasing the stocking rate and improving pasture health. Additionally, it has also allowed Bronson to build a relationship with the BLM field staff, local and regional offices to be able to continue on with the land.   

 “This land is always going to be special to me because that's where I was born and raised right here in Roswell. But our operation is more diverse landscape than almost any other ranches that I've been on.” 

Fighting for the Future 

Not only is Bronson working on the land, but he is working for the next generation as well. His time in the New Mexico Cattle Growers' Association (NMCGA) has allowed him to speak up about the issues that impact all ranchers. During his time as president elect for the NMCGA, he fulfilled the role as the state's lobbyist. From policy sessions to committee meetings to speaking with congressmen, he understands the importance of boots on the ground, both on the ranch and capitol hill. There are many misconceptions about the agricultural industry, and Bronson has been able to help debunk them. 

These battles have and will continue to be an issue in the future. Bronson not only speaks on the importance of his fight for the land, but that the next generation has to be ready to do the same. Bronson urges the upcoming generations to get involved as soon as possible because this industry is going to need it. 

“I'm currently the youngest president NMCGA has ever had. It was eye-opening. And I see a huge need as we progress forward in making these huge leaps, not just at a state level, but at a national level. We're in a very unique time, but people, the young people, need to understand what's going on. History repeats itself, and if we don't know history, we're doomed to failure,” said Bronson. 

Battles must be fought, voices must be heard, and the next generation must be ready to step up. Bronson has found out the importance of this statement and works daily to make it better for the generations to follow, a true advocate for this industry and an inspiration to all.