Rippview Ridge: Ryan and Brianna Ripp

Ryan Ripp grew up in the small village of Dane, Wis., helping his extended family custom raise dairy heifers and finish steers. During his youth, he watched the volunteer fire department battle a grass fire at his family’s farm, which fueled his desire to serve his community. 

“I watched the firefighters work together as a team, knowing exactly what to do and how to handle the situation,” Ryan said. “I knew I wanted to be part of that.” 

At the age of 17, Ryan started his service career by pursuing a position as a volunteer firefighter. His high school friend said the local fire department needed volunteers and that Ryan would be a perfect fit. Ryan was accepted, and he hasn’t looked back, now serving for more than 14 years. 

“Being a firefighter allows me to give back to the community that has given so much to me,” he said. 

Ryan never lost his connection to agriculture. After graduating college with a degree in animal science, he met his wife, Brianna, and they started RippView Ridge Farm with a desire to “raise crops, cattle and the next generation of farm kids.” The Ripps manage their cow-calf operation building the genetics in their herd for when their kids (now two and five years old) can start showing. 

Brianna, who grew up on a dairy farm, also manages the direct marketing part of the business, selling quarters and halves to the local community. The family’s focus on service is not limited to the fire station. Brianna is on the Wisconsin 4-H Foundation board, and Ryan serves on local boards and organizations with the Lodi Agricultural Fair, the Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board and Farm Bureau. If that wasn’t enough, Ryan also serves farmers as a District Manager for Dairyland Seed. 

“Producers in our community are there to help one another,” Ryan said. “Everyone is upfront and honest and willing to help out, and I love being a part of that.” 

Ryan enjoys networking, learning from neighbors, and sharing information. He enjoys reaching out to the community, especially kids, through the fire department’s annual open house and kids fire safety week. His dedication to the community inspires others to get involved and give back. 

“Rural communities are always looking for volunteers, and being a firefighter is very rewarding,” Ryan said. “No matter how you want to get involved, just ask to volunteer, and someone will be happy to put you to work.”