Staff Spotlight: The Rancher
Started by his parents in 1977, Dave grew up on a Registered Angus Ranch in Dante, South Dakota. He learned the responsibilities of a rancher at an early age, helping with chores before and after school. While he loves livestock, his least favorite chore was cleaning the chicken coop in the summer. (And who could blame him?!)
In 2011, Dave’s family (and around 100 registered cows) relocated the Koupal Lazy EY Angus Ranch to Edgemont, South Dakota. Now on the third generation of raising Angus cattle, they specialize in raising and selling bulls throughout the United States and cattle regionally. Dave especially enjoys working with cattle and witnessing the growth and improvement of genetics over time.“One of my favorite childhood memories was my dad taking us down to the creek to swim after a hard day’s work,” Dave shared. “There’s always been something so rewarding about all that you can accomplish on the ranch in a day.”
While ranching may be in his blood, Dave wasn’t always sure what path he wanted to take, but he knew he wanted to be involved in agriculture somehow. He was an agriculture educator at both the high school and technical college levels and has been involved in numerous agricultural organizations throughout his career, before finding his way back to ranching. He wants the same for his sons, encouraging them to take time to investigate paths for their future and careers they may wish to pursue.
Ranching seems like a full-time job, right? With his time management dialed in daily and the support of his family, Dave joined the BHFCU Agriculture Lending team in 2019. He owes much of his success to his wife and three boys, who make sure the ranch runs smoothly when he’s on the road, helping other ranchers succeed.“I’ve always had a passion for livestock and a strong belief in the purpose of the agriculture industry,” Dave explained. “Just like my father allowed me space, I want my boys to follow the path that makes them happy, whether that matches my happiness or not. I know their ranching values will follow them wherever they choose to go.”
Dave’s position as an Ag Lender and rancher allows him to live out his passion for helping others in the agricultural space succeed while continuing to work with livestock. (Anyone who knows him can attest that Dave is a rock star!) Because at the end of the day, the ranching community is tight-knit.“Anyone can help a rancher complete a loan, but what makes a really good ag lender is being invested in whatever success looks like to that operation,” explained Dave. “Having experienced the ups and downs of ranching myself, I understand that success doesn’t necessarily mean huge financial gains. It could look like a better success rate with calving or better soil health – it’s much more than just financial assistance.”
“Agriculture is more than just a business. It’s a lifestyle and a passion,” Dave shared with a smile, “One I’m proud to call my own.”
