Deadlines. ……. No one likes them. Whether they are set by yourself or someone else they always creep up faster than intended. They cause stress. They cause anxiety. But they are necessary. I am a firm believer that without goal points we don’t progress very far in life. I am also a firm believer that we need help meeting our goals. I have been blessed to watch the extraordinary happen over the last several months after the fire we experienced December 27th. When I set the date of June 6th for reopen I scared most knowledgeable folks off. I mostly got “the look”. Anyone in construction knew that it often takes months just to get through permitting and design. Then we had a rezoning issue and it seemed to sink the thought of a quick return for most. Yet we stayed strong in knowing that with help from God, with help from those around us, it would happen. We put out for bid in early January and of the 6 companies contacted recieved 2 bids. The other 4 companies thought the budget was too tight and the timeline not possible. As we progressed through construction there were the normal weather delays and mistakes made. Every challenge was tackled and a solution found. The men on the job formed a great bond. They joked and made fun of each other. The Amish and English came together to raise a building with great speed. My son learned great skills. My husband passed along his knowledge of electrical construction to our employees that we wanted to keep with us despite the lack of a great amount of processing work. They processed meat a few times a week at night in our leased facility and became electricians by day. I would never have chosen to live the experience nor would I want to live it again but I do know that it is through challenge that we grow. It is through challenge that we can see God’s hand in our lives. When you feel like life has given you the impossible, give us a call. Everyone said we couldn’t get it done but I am here to tell you that on June 6th we reopened our new certified organic processing facility outside of Colfax, IN and began filling the freezers with 100% traceable custom, wholesale, and retail meats. We have only the best. Call us at (765) 324-2161. Help us spread the word that we have risen from the ashes and are back in action. We are ready for you to walk through the door! Come see us. Your encouragement and hope for choice in what you eat is what keeps us going. Without you, it isn’t possible.
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.
