Schoenbauer Family
Eric and Robynne began their farming journey in 1999 with just a few Simmental beef cattle and a small tractor. Over time, Eric developed an admiration for the Shorthorn breed because of their striking color and docile temperament, and the operation transitioned to focus on purebred Shorthorns. Through the years, the farm has grown in size in terms of cattle, equipment and family involvement.
Today, the family operates as Washington Lake Cattle Company. Eric and Robynne farm alongside their daughter, Sam, and her husband, Joe, as well as Todd and Kristen Karels' family. The farm manages approximately 60 cow-calf pairs, primarily Shorthorn with a few other breeds mixed in. Eric works full-time on the farm, and Eric and Joe also operate Washington Lake Livestock Equipment as dealers for Badlands Ranch and Rodeo Equipment.
The family is deeply engaged in supporting agricultural organizations and youth development. Eric serves as president of the Minnesota Shorthorn Association, and Robynne serves as treasurer. Sam and Robynne are graduates of Strengthening Sibley’s Future, a leadership development program through Sibley County and University of Minnesota Extension. Sam serves on the Sibley County Fair Board, and Joe serves on the Carver County Fair Board. Passionate about fostering youth involvement in agriculture, the family leases show cattle to 4-H members, helping cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders.