Kalan Steinle & his wife Lana started farming five years ago, alongside Kalan’s brother-in-law. Kalan got his start working for a farmer around Dimmitt, Texas. This man, Kenneth Fry, was also a mentor to Kalan; Mr. Fry fostered the love of farming that was growing in the young man. As the story goes, Kalan then married the daughter of another well-known (and respected) local farmer. Kalan’s father-in-law, Bryan Reinart, also happens to be on the AgTexas Board of Directors.
Kalan's mom and dad were educators. Agriculture wasn't their lifestyle or back-story. When he told his parents he wanted to farm, initially his dad thought he was crazy. But, with the support of his mentors, AgTexas, and his determined attitude Kalan got started.
Despite being a little uncertain about how to start, Kalan just jumped in and put to use what he learned from Mr. Fry and his father-in-law. He also gives credit to the relationship he built with AgTexas early on. He is appreciative of the support that AgTexas provides to young and beginning farmers.
Kalan started borrowing money with AgTexas at the beginning of his farming endeavor. AgTexas coached him through the lending process which allowed him to obtain the capital he needed to make his first farm purchase. Now he's buying land each year, increasing the size of their operation. Kalan shared that he and his wife were young and didn't have a lot when they started this journey. With support from FSA and AgTexas (working together), their start was much easier
