Hi, my name is Ryan Klataske and I'm an anthropologist and ethnographer. Welcome to my family’s ranchland here in the beautiful Flint Hill of Kansas. 

As an anthropologist, I study humans and, in particular, our culture, habits, interactions, and the ways in which we make living. I’ve lived with and studied ranchers and rural communities in southern Africa, and now I’m turning my attention—and applying the same skills—to agriculture, health, and rural life here in America’s heartland. 

As part of the team at the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health, my role is to contribute to a deeper understanding of cattle feedyard worker safety and health through ethnographic research. This approach, which is the hallmark of cultural anthropology, involves observing and participating in the ordinary work activities of feedyard workers, and asking questions through normal conversations. My goal is to listen closely to both managers and workers, to hear about their needs, perspectives, and experiences, and to both carefully and confidentially share their stories. By visiting feedyards and actually talking to people and experiencing their everyday work, I hope to contribute [to] and improve Feedyard 15—the Center’s comprehensive feedyard safety and health training program, designed in collaboration with industry stakeholders. 

My research looks a lot like job shadowing. I’ve visited numerous feedyards throughout Nebraska, and oftentimes I talk with managers, tag along with pen riders, feed truck drivers, mill workers, or even work alongside processing crews. I’m comfortable around cattle and confident that in a day or two I can complete my research without interfering in the important work that needs to get done.

I hope to see you on your feedyard soon. Thank you.