FAQ’S

Why is Regenerative Agriculture important to us?

We have always believed it’s important to know where your food comes from, and that livestock should be raised outdoors in sunshine and fresh air. These principles have guided us in our journey to become regenerative farmers.  Healthy foods start with healthy soils.  We use long crop rotations ensuring that our soils biology stays alive and active and adaptive grazing techniques to keep the plants healthy feeding the soil microbes. What happens below the ground is just as important as what grows above the surface.  Keeping the ground covered with cover crops help with water infiltration and reduces soil erosion.     We use these practices to grow and harvest the grains we use to feed our livestock.

Regenerative agriculture is important because it focuses on restoring and enhancing the health of soil, ecosystems, and biodiversity, unlike conventional farming methods that often deplete these resources over time. Here are some key reasons why it’s essential:

1. Soil Health: It helps rebuild soil fertility, structure, and microbial life, which are vital for long-term food production. Healthy soil also retains more water, which can mitigate drought conditions.

2. Carbon Sequestration: Regenerative practices, such as cover cropping and no-till farming, capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in the soil, helping to combat climate change.

3. Biodiversity: It encourages biodiversity by reducing the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers, creating healthier ecosystems for plants, animals, and beneficial insects.

4. Resilience to Climate Change: Healthier soil and ecosystems are more resilient to extreme weather events, such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves, which are becoming more frequent with climate change.

5. Improved Water Management: Practices like mulching, agroforestry, and rotational grazing improve water retention and reduce water runoff, supporting more sustainable water use.

6. Economic Benefits: It can lead to more profitable farming over time by reducing dependency on costly chemical inputs and enhancing long-term productivity through soil health.

Where do you find our products?

At our farm store, seasonally at local farmer’s markets, and also at Wessel’s Corner Market for eggs and some basic meats.

Check calendar page for store hours, markets, pick-ups, and other events.  Customers can also use the pick-up room at the farm store for after-hours pick-ups.

At our farm store we also carry other locally grown products, such as flours, oats, rice, popcorn, seasonings, sauces, etc.

How does the Pick-up Room work at the Farm Store?

We have a pick-up area in the front breezeway of our farm store for pick-ups after hours.

Stop by anytime for just eggs and use the money box or Venmo for payment.

Or E-mail us your order and we will send an email with payment link once your order is ready.

Don’t forget to grab both frozen items from freezer and refrigerated items from refrigerator.

We have found this option very convenient for us and for our customers.

How do O’Fallon Pick-Ups work?

During the off season of farmer’s markets (late October- early May) we come to O’Fallon Station, 212 E 1st Street, O’Fallon, IL 62269, every Tuesday at 5pm to meet customers for pick-ups.  Pick-ups are preorder only, and we will gather your items and send an email with payment link via Square.  We have each customer’s order bagged and ready for a quick pick up, no need to even get out of your car. Email us before noon on Tuesday to be sure we have enough time to process your order.

Why is pasture-raised meat better than conventionally raised meat?

Pasture-raised animals are given access to the outdoors, where they can roam freely on natural grass pastures. They have the opportunity to graze, forage, and exhibit natural behaviors, unlike animals raised in confined spaces. Pasture-raised meat tends to have better nutritional profiles, with higher levels of Omega-3s, vitamins, and antioxidants. Additionally, animals raised on pasture have a more humane and ethical life, leading to less stress and better quality meat.

Are your animals treated humanely?

Yes! At our farm, animal welfare is our top priority. Our animals are allowed to roam freely on pasture, where they can live naturally. We ensure that all practices align with humane standards, focusing on comfort and well-being.

Do you use antibiotics or hormones in your animals?

No. We believe in natural and sustainable farming practices. Our animals are raised without the use of antibiotics, growth hormones, or harmful chemicals.

Is your farm certified organic?

While we follow organic practices, we are not officially certified organic at this time. However, we prioritize sustainable and ethical farming practices, and we avoid the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.

Can I visit your farm?

Absolutely! We welcome farm tours by appointment so you can see our operations firsthand. It’s a great way to learn more about where your food comes from and how it’s produced.