Donald Stephens

Born in Tulsa, OK, Donald Stephens is a native Oklahoman. With his twin brother, they purchased five acres of land north of Tulsa where they developed and operated D&R Ranch. Donald also started D&R Rodeo Productions producing rodeos. Later, he began a non-profit – D&R Western Heritage – focused on educating people about the true story of African American men and women in the American West. Donald has also appeared in two movies – Young Guns and Desperados.  

In 1977, he followed in his father’s footsteps with a career in firefighting. His father was one of the first six African American men hired on the Tulsa Fire Dept. Donald was promoted to Lieutenant and was a nominee for Fire Fighter of the year in 1996 for the rescue of a pregnant woman in a two story house fire. After serving for 31 years, he retired in 2008.  

With no heir land or generational wealth, Donald purchased and built a commercial cow and calf operation in Creek County, starting Big D Farm & Ranch. He then ran for election on his local conservation district board in 2019 and won. He is now serving his second term and was recently appointed as chairman. Creek County has one of the most diversified boards in Oklahoma, with a lot more work to accomplish.

Their goal is to inform all land owners, farmers, and ranchers about the conservation programs, technical assistance, and USDA services available. Donald is a member of the OACD leadership Class, has served on the FSA as a Committee Member, and is a member of the Oklahoma and Creek County Cattleman Assoc and National Cattlemen Beef Association.