This fourth-generation Iowa farmer is committed to raising pigs “the old way” with room to roam and no antibiotics.
Family Farmer Finds a Connection to Eaters Through Livestock
“Livestock changes the focus of everything,” says third-generation farmer Randy Hutton, Jr. “It completes the loop.”
Sustainability Means ‘Freedom to Really Farm How We Should Be Farming’
Farmer Trisha Zachman is hopeful for the future, seeing more companies looking to source responsibly raised ingredients.
Easy and ‘Modern’ Isn’t Always the Best Way: The Promise of Sustainable, Humane Pig Farming
Kody McCleary, a 24 year old producer, says that maintaining the family farm for the next generation is his number one goal.
A Young Farmer Makes the Business Case for Humane Hog Farming
The family’s farm shows how smaller-scale, humane hog farming can be both environmentally and economically sustainable.
Cream Co. Meats Is Reshaping the Meat Industry One Farm at a Time
By sourcing meat locally, the company is working to promote resilience, reduce reliance on centralized production methods, and empower small farmers.
Op-Ed | California Crate-Free Law Offers Hog Farmers Economic Opportunity
Both Prop 12 and Question 3 passed with sweeping voter support, indicating approval for better animal welfare practices.
Young Farmers Bring Small-scale, Humane Hog Farming Back to Iowa
Neighbors love to drive by and see a young family raising hogs outdoors again—a rare sight in Eric and Mikala Boors’ part of Iowa.
Building a More Sustainable Meat Industry with Data, Partnerships, and Collaboration
The North American Meat Institute is prioritizing data sharing to help meat companies transition to more sustainable practices.
Finding Balance as a Sixth-Generation Pig Farmer
Family farmer Aaron Williams is committed to raising hogs sustainably. Now, he’s traveling across the country to explain why.
Nurturing a Path to Success for Small, Sustainable Sheepherders
Family farmer Levi Wahl hopes to build a business that he can pass on for his children to enjoy as much as he does.
Leather Companies Can Play a Critical Role in Stopping Deforestation
Tanneries are starting pilot projects that are intended to improve traceability and help end deforestation.
From Farm to Planet, Lessons on Building Multigenerational Farming and Food Systems
Conversations with family farmers, retailers, food producers, journalists, chefs, and advocates serve as a reminder that we all have a role to play in supporting farmers.
A New Hog Farming Model for the Next Generation
Steven and Alaina Imhoff knew they wanted to expand their hog farming at Triple Creek Farms in southeast Iowa. And they were convinced that the industrial route wasn’t going to suit them. In 2019, they connected with Niman Ranch, which…
New Research Shows Animal Agriculture Is Making UTIs Worse. Factory Farms Could Make Them Untreatable
This is more than just a foodborne illness problem—it’s a factory farming problem.
A Farmers’ Network Offers Sound Business Advice—and Community
After inheriting his family’s deep respect for the land and animals, Jake Beeler faced financial hardship and struggled to maintain his farm. But a network of family farmers has helped him develop a sustainable business.
A Network for Independent Family Farmers: “It’s Like a Family”
Niman Ranch’s network allows farmers to maintain their independence while receiving critical resources and support.
Identifying a Food Future that Preserves Biodiversity
Alternative proteins can be produced at scale and have the potential to reduce demand for conventional meat. But are they the answer to preserving biodiversity?
A Market for Small-Scale Hog Farmers to Thrive
In central Iowa, small-scale hog farmer Travis Flaherty takes pride in raising his animals more sustainably, allowing them to exhibit their natural behaviors.
Why Are Food System Folks Fighting Against More Humane Animal Conditions at the Supreme Court?
Promoting animal welfare is about a global shift away from unsustainable factory farming and inhumane practices.
