Our Practices
The 100 acre Nehalem River Ranch is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna and good land stewardship principals are central to our ranch operations. We raise all of our livestock humanely on pasture at our farm where paddocks are buffered from riparian areas and are managed managed using intensive rotations and a holistic planned grazing system. The food we produce is not only healthier, but better for the environment as natural, grass-based farming uses fewer fossil fuels, does not introduce chemicals or hormones into the environment or your food, decreases tillage and returns natural fertility to the soil.
Our Farming Philosophy
Pastured
Our cows and pigs have year-round access to ample pasture and the freedom to move and engage in behaviors and activities natural to the species. Pigs are able to frolic and root. Cows meander and graze together.
All Natural
No hormones, vaccines or antibiotics. Calves and piglets are allowed to wean naturally in their own (or mama’s) good time resulting in healthier, stronger animals. With appropriate breed selection, nutritious diet and a clean, peaceful environment, our animals thrive without needing help from any artificial products.
Whole Cycle
Our cattle and pigs spend their whole lives on-farm. Our beef is seasonal and corresponds to pasture cycles to maximize health, quality, and flavor. Our calving season is timed with the full flush of the late spring grass growth and beef sales occur the three months around the fall equinox as grass growth starts to slow and the cattle reach their optimal natural weight gain.
Humane Treatment of Animals
We have selected appropriate breeds to our climate, know our animals well and care for them responsibly. Natural behaviors and kinship bonds are supported by the peaceful environment we provide. Ample space is provided to discourage competition among animals. We never brand, de-horn or use nose rings. We spend time daily working with the animals so we are able to immediately identify any potential health concerns and the animals are familiar and comfortable with us which makes all other interactions easier and low-stress through harvest day
