Legacy of the Land

A Morning at Southern Indiana Purdue Agricultural Center with Jason Tower

     Tucked into the rolling hills of Dubois County, the Southern Indiana Purdue Ag Center (SIPAC) is more than just a research farm—it’s a living, breathing story of progress, purpose, and passion for the land. On a quiet morning this summer, we had the chance to walk the pastures, capture a few moments behind the camera, and sit down with the man who's helped shape the center’s impact for over two decades: Jason Tower.

     Originally established in the 1950s, SIPAC has long served as a critical link between research and real-world agricultural practices in southern Indiana. While it supports a range of projects, it has become a cornerstone in the advancement of beef cattle production. With over 1,300 acres of pasture, woodland, and research plots, the center provides a diverse landscape for applied studies and practical cattle management—making it a unique asset to Indiana’s beef industry.

     Jason Tower, SIPAC's superintendent, is a familiar face in the beef world—both in Indiana and beyond. With a degree in Animal Science from Purdue and a background rooted in hands-on production, Jason has spent over 20 years leading SIPAC with both expertise and heart. He’s known for mentoring young producers, championing science-based improvements, and always having boots on the ground alongside his herd.

     Walking the farm with Jason, you quickly realize his deep respect for the cattle, the land, and the generations who’ve worked it before him. “We’re not just raising beef—we’re raising better practices,” he told us, standing near a group of grazing cows. “Every decision here ties back to the producers who will take what we learn and apply it to their own operations.”

     Through rotational grazing, forage trials, herd health studies, and hands-on producer field days, SIPAC is pushing Indiana’s beef industry forward—while still honoring the values it was built on: stewardship, education, and community.

     The photos from our morning at SIPAC capture more than just cattle and fences—they capture the quiet rhythm of a place where generations have come to learn, grow, and lead. It’s the kind of farm where the sunrise feels a little more meaningful, and the work done in the pastures echoes far beyond the fence lines. SIPAC isn’t just a place where science meets agriculture—it’s a research farm that feels like home. A place where progress is rooted in tradition, and the future of Indiana beef is being built, one thoughtful and intentional step at a time.