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"I begin with the proposition that eating is an agricultural act.

Eating ends the annual drama of the food economy that begins with planting and birth. Most eaters, however, are no longer aware that this is true."

--Wendell Berry

Studies show that pasture raised (grass fed) beef is

Naturally high in:

  • Health promoting Essential Fatty Acids
  • Vitamin E

Naturally low in:

  • Saturated Fats
  • Cholesterol
  • Calories

The Market

1610 Hill Avenue
Spirit Lake, Iowa

and

Wheatsfield Coop

413 Douglas Avenue
Ames, Iowa

Or you can contact us.

What Does Pasture Raised Really MeanWhat Does Pasture Raised Really Mean Good Grazing

Good Grass Grows Good Cows.

We think of pasture based farming as a living and learning collaboration with creation. Much of what we do is based on traditional, centuries-proven methods of plant and animal farming.

But, just as much, we draw from the latest in scientific understanding as we collaborate with other farmers, research institutes and ag extension services on the up-to-date learning available for fostering healthy ecosystems, cows, humans and communities. In the case of our pasture raised beef, we see it as capitalizing on the

LAND, SOIL AND BIODIVERSITY

We select pasture grasses and legumes that will succeed on the particular land forms on our farm. The soil is regularly tested for composition and nutrient content.

We cultivate a mix of grasses and legumes that nourish the cows and soil at the same time — naturally providing essential nitrogen and other nutrients without the use of synthetic chemicals.

Our practices support the biodiversity of plants, both naturally occurring and those we choose to plant, as well as the creatures that use the pastures for habitat.

Calf

Clover is a legume that we plant because it is nourishing to the cows and helps naturally fix nitrogen in the soil.

Why Not Do Better Than We Have to?

On our farm, we do some additional things that are not strict requirements of the Pasture Raised method:

  • We put nothing into the soil that could harm soil life or groundwater. Our pastures are certified organic , and we use no chemical pesticide, fertilizers or herbicides.
  • We apply naturally occurring minerals and nutrient compounds to nourish and build the soil, supporting its viability as a living food system.

tractor