Austin Blenden is a fifth generation Oklahoma rancher, and the proud owner of Big Grass Beef. Growing up, Austin spent most of his childhood on his family’s ranch, learning the ins and outs of ranching and cattle care. He knew from a young age that he wanted to continue the family tradition and become a rancher himself.
After leaving college, Austin worked in custom cattle care for a few years, working tirelessly to learn everything he could about the industry. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for grass-fed beef. He saw firsthand the difference in quality and taste that grass-fed beef offered, compared to grain-fed.
Austin became deeply committed to the idea of sustainable ranching and believed that grass-fed beef was the way to achieve it. He spent years researching and experimenting with different grasses and cattle genetics to find the perfect combination to produce the optimal marbling and taste in his beef.
As his business grew, Austin began working closely with local butchers, ensuring that every cut of meat was of the highest quality. He also started selling his grass-fed beef at local farmers markets, where he quickly gained a loyal following. His customers soon became more than just clients; they became like family and friends.
The idea for his company’s name, Big Grass Beef, came from the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve, which is located near his family's ranch. Austin felt a deep connection to the land and the history of the area, and he wanted his brand to reflect that.
Today, Austin is involved in the three largest farmers markets in Oklahoma, and he hopes to one day open up his own brick and mortar store. He remains committed to sustainable ranching and is always looking for new ways to improve his operation. For Austin, raising grass-fed cattle is more than just a business; it's a way of life.