In central Iowa, small-scale hog farmer Travis Flaherty takes pride in raising his animals more sustainably, allowing them to exhibit their natural behaviors.
With a Guaranteed Market for their Hogs, Farmers Don’t Need to “Get Big or Get Out”
When fifth generation farmer Joe Mickelson transitioned to small-scale diversification, he discovered that raising pigs in the open air was a new—and much more enjoyable—experience.
Beyond Humane: Raising Pigs to “Express Their Piggyness” at Pastvina Acres
David and Christy Borrowman knew their farm needed to be different from the ones they grew up with.
For a Sustainable Hog Farmer, “There’s Not One Right Way of Farming”
This family farmer believes that all farms can work on implementing practices that support healthy environments.
Finding the “Missing Piece of the Puzzle” for a Sustainable Hog Farmer
After joining a network of small farmers and ranchers, Shaun Miller found the resources he needed to build a sustainable farming business.
Lessons From a Young Farmer: “We Need to Be Open to Other Ways of Cultivating the Land”
Ty Schmidt hopes to inspire his peers to farm with future generations in mind.
On Sperfslage Farm, Success Means Preserving a Way of Living
Cousins Mark and Mikeal Sperfslage are working to promote sustainable livestock practices while narrowing the gap between eaters and farmers.
Advocating for Family Farmers: “Spend Just One Day with Me on the Farm”
Darby Knoll wants everyone to see the passion and care farmers show their animals and the land they tend.
Multigenerational Farming on Mineral Valley Farms
Farmer Brendan Kleiboeker reflects on his experience as a 6th generation farmer, his commitment to farming and agriculture, and the ways that Niman Ranch supports him and his farm.
Bigger Is Not Always Better: Farming and Sustainability with Niman Ranch
A Niman Ranch farmer for 20 years, Dale Koestler explains what the network means to him and how it has allowed him to continue his sustainable practices even as the farming landscape changes around him.
