Frequently Asked Questions

Regenerative farming, at its core, is an approach to agriculture that focuses on healing and nurturing the land while producing high-quality, sustainable products. At our farm, we wholeheartedly embrace this philosophy. One of our key regenerative practices involves daily rotational grazing for our animals. Daily Rotational Grazing: For our chickens, we use specially designed mobile coops known as Prairie Scooners. These cozy, movable homes provide our feathered friends with fresh pasture every day. Our cows and sheep also benefit from a similar rotational system. Multi-Species or Poly-Species Approach: An essential aspect of regenerative farming is the inclusion of multiple species within our ecosystem. This multi-species or poly-species approach mimics natural ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and balance. Our chickens, cows, and sheep coexist harmoniously on our farm, each contributing their unique benefits to the ecosystem. Soil Building: Regenerative farming places a strong emphasis on soil health. Healthy soil is the foundation of a productive and resilient farm. Through our daily rotational grazing system and natural foraging behaviors, our animals play a vital role in soil building. As they roam to a new pasture each day, they engage in their natural behaviors. Chickens, for instance, peck and scratch at the soil, which not only aids in their foraging but also promotes soil aeration, microbial diversity, and nutrient cycling, all of which lead to improved soil structure and fertility. No Chemical Inputs: Another core principle of regenerative farming is the avoidance of chemical inputs. We refrain from using synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides on our farm. Instead, we rely on natural processes, such as the nutrient-rich manure from our animals, to enrich the soil. This commitment to chemical-free farming not only benefits the environment but also ensures that our products are free from harmful residues. Carbon Sequestration: In addition to these points, regenerative farming actively participates in carbon sequestration. While industrial farming often contributes to carbon dioxide production through the use of fossil fuels and land degradation, regenerative farming works in the opposite direction. Through healthy soil management and the constant rotation of our animals, we effectively store carbon dioxide in the ground, making a positive contribution to mitigating climate change. So, when you choose our products, you're not just supporting a farm; you're also supporting a method of agriculture that actively works to combat climate change, promote soil health, and create a diverse and sustainable ecosystem. Thank you for being a part of our mission to create a more regenerative and sustainable future for farming and the planet!

To purchase our exceptional meats, you have several convenient options: 1. Email Us: Feel free to reach out to us via email to discuss the steps involved in purchasing our products directly. We are always happy to assist you in this process. Joet65@yahoo.com 2. Treebird Market (Hood River, OR): If you're in the Hood River, Oregon area, you can find our products at Treebird Market, a wonderful local market that shares our commitment to sustainable and high-quality food. https://www.treebirdcommunity.com/ 3. Bastionpdx (Portland, OR): For those in the Portland, Oregon area, you can savor our chicken at Bastionpdx, a fantastic restaurant that values the taste and sustainability of our farm-fresh poultry. https://www.bastionpdx.com/ 4. Sellwood Farmers Market: We also have a stand at the Sellwood Farmers Market, where you can directly purchase our meats and experience the freshness and quality of our regenerative farm products. http://www.morelandfarmersmarket.org/

Yes, absolutely! When it comes to the nutrient content of meat, the source and farming practices make a significant difference. Our grass-fed regenerative meat stands out as a powerhouse of nutrition, and here's why: Regenerative Grass-Fed vs. Other Practices: Organic Isn't Always Grass-Fed: While "organic" is a positive label, it doesn't necessarily mean the animals are grass-fed. In many cases, organic livestock are fed organic grains, which can alter the nutrient profile of their meat. We go beyond organic by prioritizing regenerative practices and true grass feeding. Conventionally Raised vs. Regenerative: Conventionally raised animals, often confined in feedlots and fed grains, represent the opposite end of the spectrum. This environment can lead to higher stress levels, impacting both animal health and the nutrient content of the meat. Our "Salad Bar" Approach: On our farm, our animals enjoy a unique "salad bar" experience. They have the freedom to choose from various plant species in their diverse pastures, thanks to our regenerative farming practices. This diversity not only decreases stress levels for the animals but also enhances their overall health and microbiome. Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Soil Health: The key to the exceptional nutrient density of our meat lies in improving soil microbiology. Our regenerative system creates an ecosystem where soil health thrives. As a result, the meat from our animals is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, among other essential nutrients. This is a significant departure from conventional practices where animals primarily consume grain-based diets. The Nutrient Spectrum: In essence, nutrients in meat fall along a spectrum. At one end, you have regenerative practices like ours, which prioritize diverse pastures and soil health, resulting in highly nutrient-dense meat with increased omega-3 fatty acids. In the middle, there's grass-fed meat, which is a step above conventional practices but lacks the diversity of regenerative systems. On the opposite end, you find grain-fed animals, which often yield meat with a different nutrient profile. So, when you choose our grass-fed regenerative meat, you're not just selecting a delicious and healthy option; you're also supporting a farming approach that enriches both the land and the food it produces. Further Reading and Listening: If you're eager to delve deeper into the world of regenerative grass-fed meat and the wealth of benefits it offers, we encourage you to explore these valuable resources: Podcast Episode - "You Are What You Eat: Examining Beef and Plants with Dr. Stephan van Vliet" Learn from Dr. Stephan van Vliet as he discusses the importance of regenerative meat and its impact on both human health and the environment. Dive into the science and significance of regenerative agriculture by listening to this informative podcast episode at [Regenerative Agriculture Podcast](https://regenerativeagriculturepodcast.com/episodes/episode-91-you-are-what-you-eat-examining-beef-and-plants-with-dr-stephan-van-vliet/). Article - "Regeneratively Grass-Fed Beef Can Be 85% More Nutrient-Dense Than Conventionally Raised Beef" Discover the compelling data and insights regarding the nutrient density of regeneratively grass-fed beef compared to conventionally raised beef. This informative article sheds light on the remarkable differences and benefits. Explore it at [The Cattle Site](https://www.thecattlesite.com/articles/regeneratively-grass-fed-beef-can-be-85-more-nutrient-dense-than-conventionally-raised-beef). These resources will provide you with a deeper understanding of the positive impact that regenerative grass-fed meat can have on your health, the environment, and the future of sustainable agriculture. We invite you to explore, learn, and join us in supporting this transformative approach to farming and food production.

No, we do not give our animals antibiotics or hormones. Our farming philosophy is deeply rooted in allowing our animals to live as naturally as they would in their natural habitats. The reason our animals don't require these chemicals in their bodies is because they thrive within the diverse ecosystem they inhabit. Our daily rotational grazing system ensures that our animals are moved to fresh pasture each day. This practice mimics their natural behavior and allows them to forage, graze, and interact with their environment just as they would in the wild. The key to our animals' health lies in the strength of their microbiomes, which is bolstered by the dynamic ecosystem they inhabit. Unlike animals in industrial meat factories, who are often confined in crowded and unsanitary conditions, our animals enjoy spacious and clean pastures. This lifestyle reduces the risk of disease transmission and promotes their overall well-being. In summary, our animals are not subjected to antibiotics or hormones because they live in a natural and regenerative environment where their health is maintained by the vibrant ecosystem around them. We are committed to providing you with meats that are not only delicious but also raised in a manner that respects and honors their natural instincts.

This is a great question, and we appreciate your curiosity about our farming practices. While the term "free range" is often associated with certain farming methods, it's important to understand how our approach differs: Expressing Natural Behavior: At our farm, we believe in allowing animals to be themselves. Our ruminants get to express their ruminant nature, and our chickens get to exhibit their chicken behaviors. They enjoy the outdoors, fresh air, and the freedom to forage on fresh pasture every day. Our animals have the opportunity to select from a variety of forages across different landscapes around the farm, including diverse pastures and some forested areas. Safety and Containment: While we prioritize their natural behaviors, it's also important to ensure their safety. Animals need some form of containment to prevent them from wandering into roads, neighboring gardens, or wild lands where predators may have access to them. Our rotational grazing system provides the perfect balance between freedom and protection. Challenges of True Free Range: Achieving true free range can be challenging, especially for certain types of livestock. Cattle and sheep can graze in larger areas with skilled cowboys and sheep herders to manage them effectively. However, when it comes to chickens, especially breeds like the Cornish Cross, they are slow-moving and often lack the motivation to flee danger or seek shelter from adverse weather conditions. As a result, they must have adequate protection from predators and the elements. Beware of Misleading Claims: It's important to be cautious when interpreting terms like "free range" on packaging for store-bought chicken or eggs. Some producers may use this term loosely, where the reality may not align with the expectation. In some cases, a small door may be opened at a chicken factory occasionally, allowing them to claim "free range." We won't call it a scam, but it's essential to thoroughly understand what a producer means by "free range." In summary, our farming approach prioritizes the well-being and natural behavior of our animals while also ensuring their safety. We believe that this balance results in high-quality, sustainably raised meats that reflect our commitment to ethical and regenerative farming practices.

This is an excellent question, and it's important to clarify our stance on this matter. While "organic" is indeed a well-known term associated with natural and chemical-free food production, it primarily serves as a label. It signifies that no synthetic chemicals or pesticides are used in the production process, which is a positive step towards healthier food options. However, it's crucial to recognize that being "organic" doesn't necessarily guarantee the optimal nutrient density that we believe our customers deserve. While store-bought organic foods are free from chemicals, they may still fall short in terms of nutrient content. This is where our regenerative farming practices come into play. Regenerative Farming and Nutrient Density: Our approach to farming goes beyond the absence of chemicals; it's about revitalizing the land and creating an ecosystem where nature thrives. By daily rotational grazing and allowing our animals to interact with the land in their natural way, we not only produce meat that's free from chemicals but also meat that's incredibly rich in nutrients. The constant movement of our animals across fresh pastures and their natural behaviors result in soil enriched with essential minerals and a diverse ecosystem. As a consequence, our meats are not just chemical-free; they are nutrient-dense, offering you a superior quality of food that we believe aligns more closely with what we should be eating. In essence, our choice not to pursue organic certification is not a compromise on quality or sustainability; it's a conscious decision to prioritize the nutrient density of our products. We believe that true sustainability encompasses both the absence of harmful chemicals and the presence of vital nutrients in the food we provide.