Landowner
Dec 12, 2024
At the heart of North Central Missouri, just a stone’s throw from the Iowa border, sits Graham Farms — a Missouri Century Farm that's been in the Graham family since 1886. Matt Graham, along with his father and sons, proudly carries on a five-generation legacy of livestock farming, producing high-quality Wagyu, Angus, and Shorthorn cattle across their 700 acres of pasture, timber, rolling hills, and nine serene ponds.
Today, through LandTrust, Matt has opened his little slice of paradise to guests seeking authentic outdoor experiences — and in doing so, he’s built lasting memories not just for visitors, but for his own family too.
For Matt, the Missouri Century Farm designation is more than just a title — it’s a testament to generations of hard work, perseverance, and care.
"It’s important to me to be able to continue the legacy for my children," he shares. "And through LandTrust, we’ve been able to share the beauty of North Central Missouri with others who might otherwise never experience it."
Graham Farms is a diverse operation, featuring small row crops, a thriving cattle program, and a network of stocked ponds perfect for fishing. By partnering with LandTrust, Matt has been able to welcome hunters and outdoor enthusiasts without compromising the stewardship of his land.
One of the most popular draws at Graham Farms is spring turkey hunting. With extensive knowledge of the land and turkey movement, Matt helps visitors maximize their chances of success — while allowing them to experience a style of hunting that feels personal and rewarding.
Adding to the experience, Matt and his sons recently built a cozy on-site cabin, offering guests a comfortable place to stay right on the property — a game-changer in the rural landscape.
"It just made sense," Matt says. "Now guests don’t have to drive 20 or 30 minutes after a long day. They can stay right here, enjoy the land, and make the most of their trip."
Whether it’s morning hunts followed by lazy afternoons fishing in the ponds or evenings swapping stories around the cabin, guests at Graham Farms often find themselves returning year after year.
Beyond hunting and fishing, hosting through LandTrust has opened new doors for the Graham family. Visitors often discover Matt’s direct-to-consumer Wagyu beef program — taking home bundles of premium beef after experiencing its incredible flavor firsthand.
"Nine times out of ten, after tasting it, they want to bring Wagyu back home with them," Matt laughs.
Matt has also built lasting relationships with many guests — from father-son fishing duos to groups of friends looking for a quiet weekend away from the city.
For those considering opening their land through LandTrust, Matt has a simple message:
"You guys make it easy for us. The insurance coverage, the structure, the planning — it makes the experience so much easier and more comfortable. You retain full control, but you open up incredible opportunities."
Whether it’s generating flexible income, building community, or simply sharing the beauty of their land, LandTrust offers landowners a unique, rewarding path.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure — whether it’s your next turkey hunt, a peaceful fishing trip, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature — you can find Graham Farms on LandTrust.
And if you’re a landowner curious about what it’s like to host, visit landtrust.com/landowners to learn more and hear from others like Matt.
Experience a piece of living Missouri heritage — and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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