McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family: The Harkins Family

The Harkins Family Region VI

Congratulations to The Harkins Family of Beeville, Texas, Region 6 McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family. The Harkins family, consisting of Heath Harkins Sr., his wife Katherine Harkins, and their children Heath Harkins Jr. (17) and Jacqueline Harkins (14), have earned well-deserved recognition as the Region 6 McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family.

Both Heath Jr. and Jacqueline are avid rodeo competitors, showcasing their skills at various events. Heath Jr. competes in tie-down roping and team roping, while Jacqueline excels in barrels, poles, and breakaway roping. These two children balance their rigorous rodeo schedules with their responsibilities on the ranch, making the rodeo arena a natural extension of their family lifestyle.

As a family, the Harkins’ dedication to rodeo extends beyond competition. Heath and Heath Jr. share a love of snow skiing, something they do each year, while Jacqueline and Katherine enjoy traveling, squeezing in family trips whenever they can. Despite the demanding nature of their work, they manage to find time for leisure and personal activities, and their shared love of outdoor pursuits like bird hunting — a passion that recently led them on an unforgettable trip to Argentina — binds them even further.

The Harkins family runs a diverse and thriving business, primarily focusing on ranching and oilfield services. Their ranch, known as Harkins Ranches, specializes in a cow/calf operation, with Harkins & Van Cleve Cattle Co. LLC managing a herd of about 850 cows. Additionally, the family has a solar pump business that started as a way to address the needs of their ranch and has grown into a full-fledged company, helping other ranchers affected by Hurricane Harvey. The family also operates H&M Acid Services, LLC, an oilfield services company. Heath Sr.'s skills extend beyond the ranch, as he is also a licensed helicopter pilot, flying for a private aviation company.

This ranch family’s daily life revolves around their ranch and business operations. Katherine, who homeschools their children, ensures that schoolwork comes first before the kids head out to assist with ranch duties. Their son, Heath Jr., takes on significant responsibilities, including running the entire hay operation on the ranch, a role he has managed since he was 14 years old. From troubleshooting equipment to maintaining machinery, Heath Jr. has proven himself to be an invaluable asset to the ranch. Additionally, he handles land clearing and brush removal, using heavy equipment to support the family’s operations.

Katherine and Jacqueline contribute as well, helping with everyday tasks like running errands, opening gates, and ensuring that things run smoothly. Despite the demands of ranch life, they still find time for the practice pen and often share meals together as a family, with Heath Sr. working late into the night in the office.

For the Harkins family, ranching isn’t just a job — it’s a way of life. With the ranch being in Heath Sr.’s family for seven generations, the Harkins’ focus on passing down their traditions and values to their children is paramount. When Heath Jr. and Jacqueline take over the ranch one day, they will carry on the legacy as the eighth generation of ranchers. Heath Jr. has already taken on significant responsibilities, and his leadership in running the hay operation and handling heavy machinery showcases his readiness for the challenges ahead.

Rodeo has had a significant influence on the Harkins family’s day-to-day life. Through their involvement in the Texas High School Rodeo Association (THSRA), the family has forged strong relationships with others who share their love of both ranching and rodeo. 

In addition to their ranch and business operations, the Harkins family contributes to the local economy. They purchase supplies like Priefert products, lumber, and fencing materials from McCoy’s, a local supplier that supports their ranching needs. Whether it’s for maintenance or upgrading equipment, McCoy’s provides the Harkins family with the materials necessary to keep their ranch running smoothly.

The Harkins family proves that with determination, hard work, and a strong sense of family, it’s possible to balance ranching, rodeo, and a thriving business, all while staying true to the values that define them. Their story is one of dedication, legacy, and the enduring strength of family.

This ranch family is extremely honored to be the region 6 McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family.