The feed crew program at the Darr College of Agriculture isn’t just about feeding horses — it’s about learning responsibility, budgeting and the heart of animal care, one morning at a time.  

For Missouri State University students, the program offers a unique opportunity to put their agricultural knowledge into practice and turn responsibilities into readiness for their future careers.    

About the program 

Missouri State’s equine facility at the Darr Agricultural Center is home to roughly 30 horses. The feed crew program promotes student learning in equine care and facility management while supporting the well-being of the university’s horses. 

Natalie Mook, instructor in the School of Agricultural Sciences and Conservation, oversees the feed crew. With many years of experience instructing and handling horses, she manages an average of five to seven students at a time.   

The most rewarding part of the job for Mook is building relationships with students and watching them grow over the years. 

Daily responsibilities and routines 

Feed crew members perform various tasks, including providing hay, grain, water and medication to the horses in both pastures and stalls in a morning or evening feeding shift.  

“You have to make sure you’re feeding them correctly at the right time; being precise, being awake and being alert,” animal science major Megan Sollors said.

Students work together to complete other assigned duties, such as cleaning pens and stalls, raking isles, dumping buckets, watering the arena and bringing horses in and out. 

During the summer, crew members also deep clean different sections of the barn like fences and stables, as well as sweep. 

Bonding beyond the barn

For Sollors, being part of the crew has been a memorable experience. Now in her fourth year on the team, she enjoys being able to spend quiet moments away from the busyness of Springfield.  

Along with getting to spend quiet time with horses, her position has given her the opportunity to connect with fellow students and faculty who have a similar interest in horses and agriculture. These bonds have become meaningful connections in her personal life.  

“I’ve learned so much working here and I love working with everyone,” Sollors said.  

Joining the crew

Being a part of the feed crew enables students to learn about managing a herd and a facility and handling budgets.   

“It’s a good practical experience for students, especially if they want to be in the horse industry,” Mook said.  

Students interested in joining the feed crew must email their resume to Mook and complete an interview. Ideal candidates must be hardworking, punctual and skilled at communicating. They should be willing to dedicate their time and follow directions. Prior horse experience is preferable but not required. 

Life lessons that last 

Recent ag alumna Sophie Karney was a member of the feed crew team for four years. From her experience, she learned how to develop and maintain a consistent routine — a skill she can leverage both personally and professionally.  

The feed crew team provides students with many benefits from forming lasting friendships to learning new skills, while also helping them financially. The feed crew team has left a lasting impact on both the university and past students and will continue to leave an impact for years to come. 

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