Geared Toward Growth
L & M Ag in Topeka Helps Farms Thrive
Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger
Photographer / Kari Lipscomb
When Vernon Lambright speaks about his profession, there is a palpable sense of fascination. There is much respect as well, for
Lambright is very well-versed in environmental matters and how they influence agriculture. Listening to him talk about the mission of L & M Ag, one easily comes away educated and mindful of the intricacies involved in maintaining a successful farm.
The L & M Ag team steadfastly believes in and practices the philosophies of maximizing soil fertility and livestock nutrition. We help to improve your livelihood by improving the soil and livestock of your farm, Lambright says. The life in your soil is the most important thing on your farm.
In the first of numerous approaches that Lambright employs, L & M Ag conducts an in-depth soil analysis, focusing on the life in the soil, as Lambright explains. By assessing the biological composition of the soil, he notes, steps can be taken to enhance it.
Once the soil samples are taken and the results are received, Lambright provides a consultation about the specific goals of the farm. We discuss the best kinds of crops to grow and we see what rotation the farm is in, he says. The protocol is meant to assess the farmers needs and the best manner for distribution, including supplementation methods tailored to the type of produce or crop.
This process cycles directly into taking care of the dietary requirements for farm animals, as their presence on the land is a significant part of what blends and tends the soil. For example, Lambright helps farmers determine the best type of hay to use, and provides guidance on feeding routines for pigs, horses and other farm animals, with customized feeds and mineral packs.
L & M Ag, which is centrally located in Topeka, has spanned three generations of familial commitment since it was launched in 2009. Lambright and his wife, Erma, joined a venture with Ermas father, Glen Mast. Upon Masts retirement in 2018, son-in-law Lavon Mast began assisting and is now involved in managing production. Erma and daughter, Deborah, oversee bookkeeping and billing on the clerical front.
Lambright also notes that his work is not exclusive to crop farming, as L & M Ag is qualified to conduct consultations and soil sampling analyses on produce farms, gardens, and other types of food- and plant-bearing acreage. Recently, Lambright was a featured guest speaker on the topic of soil fertility and livestock nutrition on a per-farm basis at the 2023 Northern Indiana Grazing Conference, a grand-scale event held at the Michiana Event Center in nearby Shipshewana.
To learn more about L & M Ag and the services they offer, contact Lambright at 260-768-7375. L & M Ag is located at 7345 West 100 South in Topeka.
