From Farrow to Finish: The Journey of Our Pasture-Raised Pigs
Ever wondered what it takes to raise happy, healthy pigs from start to finish? Let me share the story of our pig farming journey, from farrow to finish, and how we care for our pigs every step of the way.
Farrowing: Where It All Begins
Farrowing is the first and most critical stage in our pig farming journey. Our sows give birth on pasture and in spacious, comfortable maternity pens. We ensure that the newborn piglets get all the warmth and care they need to thrive. The farrowing stage is crucial because the foundation of a piglet's health and well-being is established during these early days.
I love seeing the sows nurturing their piglets, providing them with the warmth and comfort they need. Each birth is a reminder of the cycle of life and the dedication we put into caring for our animals. The piglets stay with their mother, receiving her milk and gaining the strength they need to move to the next stage.
Weaning: A Big Step for Growth
At around 9-10 weeks old, our piglets start the weaning process. This is when they transition from their mother's milk to solid food. It's a significant step in their growth, and we ensure they get the best nutrition possible. Proper nutrition during this stage is vital for their development, and we take great care to provide a balanced diet that supports their health.
Weaning can be a challenging time for piglets, but with careful management and attention, they quickly adapt to their new diet. We monitor their progress closely to ensure they are thriving and ready for the next phase.
Growing/Finishing: Flourishing on Pasture
After weaning, our pigs move to larger pastures where they can roam freely, enjoy a balanced diet, and grow at their natural pace. This stage, known as growing/finishing, is where our pigs really start to flourish. They have ample space to express their natural behaviors, contributing to their overall well-being and happiness.
One of my favorite sights is watching our pigs roam freely in the pasture, rooting around and enjoying the fresh air. They are rotated through different pastures to maintain healthy land and promote regenerative farming practices. This rotation helps improve soil health and ensures that our pigs always have access to fresh, nutritious forage. By working with nature, we create a sustainable and ethical farming environment.
Market Ready: From Pasture to Plate
When our pigs reach the right weight, they are ready for market. Our pasture-raised pigs provide nutrient-dense, flavorful meat that we’re proud to share with you. We take pride in the quality of our meat, knowing that it comes from pigs that were raised with care and respect.
Our commitment to transparency means you know exactly where your food comes from and how it was raised. We believe that the best meat comes from animals that are healthy, happy, and well-cared for throughout their lives.
What We Do at Our Ranch
Our ranching practices are rooted in sustainability, transparency, and community. Here’s a closer look at what we do:
- Pasture-Raised Pigs: Our pigs roam freely, supporting natural behaviors and improving soil health.
- Sustainable Practices: We use regenerative farming techniques, rotating our animals to keep our pastures healthy.
- Quality Meats: We provide nutrient-dense, flavorful meats and make sure you know where your food comes from.
- Building Community: We love sharing our ranch life, educating our customers, and building strong community ties.
Stay Connected with Our Story
We’re passionate about what we do and love sharing the ins and outs of our ranch life. If you enjoyed learning about our pig farming journey, we’d love for you to stay connected with us. Follow our story, get a glimpse of our daily life on the ranch, and see how we care for our animals and land.
Thank you for being part of our community and supporting sustainable farming practices. Together, we can make a positive impact on the way we raise and enjoy our food. 🌱🐖❤️