Just two months into our natural meats processing division that had been in the planning phases for over two years, we were met with unfortunate news. The governor had announced a 50% budget cut in the Meat and Poultry Inspection division of the Board of Animal Health. This is the agency that oversees meat processing destined for retail sales. The impact of a 50% budget cut looked like a defunct program. The impact would be the inability to locally produce retail meats. The option we saw was to go ahead with Federal Inspection which would have taken more time and energy or let industry that desires the consolidation of all meat through four major processors country wide to win the battle. Despite big business factory farms, there is a push to support local agriculture through the USDA as can be seen by the success of two grants and multiple programs and training sponsored by the USDA to encourage these regional systems. The USDA sees merit in supporting regional and local distributioon of foods. It just makes sense. Consolidated food systems create the food contamination scares like E.Coli outbreaks and recent peanut scares. Local government is under tremendous fiscal pressure to “find” money and the Meat and Poultry Division seemed to be a piece of that “found” money. Thanks to communication through letter writing, a good medium ground was found. The State program determined areas they could cut while ensuring that the program would be around to provide quality Indiana products. A 50% budget cut was not realized. Merit in our local agricultural system was seen and the impact of its threatened loss was realized. Jobs were saved. Our mission to bring choice in local meats produced without antibiotics, growth hormones, and protein tubs can now continue. I am glad we chose to speak our minds, the state inspectors appreciate it and our customers appreciate it. A special thanks goes out to all who join us in the quest for good local food choices.
Welcome to Hays Family Farm
Hays Family Farm
Meet the Farmers:
John (1st Generation): The visionary who grew up surrounded by the rhythms of agriculture on his grandparents' farm. After a stint in industrial/commercial AG post-high school, he decided to forge his path. In the early 2000s, he embarked on the journey of raising grass-fed beef. By 2020, a significant portion of our farm had transitioned to regenerative practices.
Jenny: Partner in the farming venture, bringing dedication and passion to the sustainable agriculture movement.
Jordan and Jared: The next generation, adding fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the family's agricultural legacy.
Discover Hays Family Farm:
Farm Name: Hays Family Farm
Website: www.haysfamilyfarm.net
Facebook Page: Hays Family Farm
Roots in Agriculture Since 2002:
Embarking on this agricultural adventure in 2002, the Hays family has deepened their connection with the land over the years. Although not a designated Hoosier Homestead Farm, our commitment to sustainable practices is unwavering.
Generational Legacy:
Proudly standing as the 2nd generation on this farm, we carry forward the lessons, values, and dedication passed down from our farming ancestors.
The Farming Story:
John's journey began with a vision deeply rooted in his childhood. Growing up among the fields and livestock of his grandparents' farm, he knew farming was his calling. The path led him to industrial/commercial AG after high school, but the call of sustainable, regenerative farming beckoned. In the early 2000s, the first seeds of grass-fed beef were sown, and by 2020, regenerative practices were taking root across the farm. Today, a harmonious blend of pork, chicken, eggs, and grass-fed beef embodies our commitment to providing wholesome, community-strengthening nourishment.
Sustainable Farming Practices:
Welcoming visitors to Hays Family Farm means offering a glimpse into our regenerative farming practices. Farm tours are a journey through daily adaptive grazing for cattle, where chickens play a vital role in the symbiotic relationship that regenerates our soil.
Mission and Vision:
Our mission is simple but profound: to be stewards of the land, prioritizing healthy soils, vibrant plants, happy animals, and, in turn, fostering the health of our community.
Proudest Accomplishments:
A testament to our commitment is the successful transformation of hay fields and grass-fed pastures into regenerative landscapes. The adoption of regenerative farming practices and adaptive grazing techniques has redefined our approach to agriculture.
Farming Highlights:
Diverse Harvest: From horseradish and herbs to broccoli and tomatoes, our fields have embraced diversity.
Learning from Mistakes:
Monoculture row crops, including field corn and soybeans, were tried and deemed a less-than-ideal venture.
Family Achievements:
Our involvement in FFA and 4-H extends to the next generation. Jessica, part of the second generation, achieved the prestigious title of Supreme Showman at the county fair and went on to become the third runner-up fair queen and a state FFA officer.
A Humorous Farming Tale:
In 2021, the family embarked on the ambitious project of converting hay fields into regenerative pastures, situated prominently near a main highway. The local farming community was abuzz with skepticism. However, within just two years, the success in pasture fertility not only silenced the doubters but also sparked interest among neighbors keen on adopting similar regenerative practices.
