Eminent Farmer
County: Meade
Edward T. Blair is a man who knows tradition. For over 100 years the Blair family has continued a tradition of livestock production in western South Dakota. The past 30 years Blair has owned and managed Blair Brothers Angus ranch. He has spent most of his life, raising cattle, corn and alfalfa on the 6000-acre ranch, in partnership with his brother Rich.
For 20 years Blair has worked hard to promote quality genetics in his livestock, primarily through the use of artificial insemination of highly proven bulls. Resulting from an extensive AI program, a well-respected commercial bull enterprise has evolved. Blair Brothers are now marketing bulls from Canada to Texas.
Along with being involved on his ranch, Blair is extremely involved in the Sturgis and Vale communities. To name a few of his contributions to community, state and nation: Meade County 4-H leader for 25 years, Meade County Extension board member for 5 years, South Dakota Farm Bureau member for 33 years where he has held local, state and national positions, and a member of the South Dakota Beef Industry Council for 7 years. Blair is currently working with the Ag and Biosystems Engineering Department at South Dakota State University to research the use of vegetative treatment areas as an alternative to lagoon systems. The Blair Brothers also donate a steer calf each year to SDSU Steers for State to help promote activities on campus.
Ed and his wife Wanda have two children, both with degrees from SDSU.