When asked last night by a customer, how we have learned all we know, I replied, “We read nonstop.” Reading on the topic of sustainable living has been a passion for 15 years. What began with Countryside magazine in the beginning slowly turned to sustainable agriculture and more recently to health and the environment and distribution of local foods. I try to read as much as I can in my leisure times, at night before bed and on Sunday afternoons. These times are right now more precious as the mother of 5 young kids. But when I am able, I read. I am always tickled when I come upon a totally new concept that sticks out for me. As a vegetarian, at one time I remember going through the logic that we would all be better off saving our worlds resources for grain crops which could feed more. Now, I see the error of that thought. Life is about balance. The circle of life and the many connections are so important. One thing on its own is not the silver bullet. I came at farming through my desire to grow a good organic garden as a vegetarian but then discovered the need for the outputs from the animals I was condemning was the very thing that could give the land the fertility it needed without chemicals. We now are moving our farm to a majority grass operation in time. Moving the animals back to the grass out of confinement makes there wastes a asset not a detriment. Back to grain crops for a minute. This was the awakening I experienced about a year ago that stuck with me. I was shown time lapped images of a corn field. That field looks almost like a dessert for the majority of the year. The topsoil is exposed and easily erodes, the suns energy is left to do nothing but hit the ground, and these things can be easily seen when realizing that our number one export in America is not food but is topsoil. Right into the Mississippi causing hypoxia. Look it up, read, you will be fascinated. For now I have a good quick read article forwarded by a fellow customer that might interest you called the “Carnivores Delimma”.
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.
