Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Functional Free-ranging at Cypress Hall Farm

 

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Not many people have bragging rights that they have turkeys at backyard pets! During the Eastern Triangle Farm I was able to see that Cypress Hall Farm has earned that right and decided to go free-range. The definition of free range according to the wonderful research resource we call google is: “Livestock and domestic poultry permitted to graze or forage for grain, etc., rather than being confined to a feedlot or a small enclosure.” Free range animals are happier and healthier which means we will be happier and healthier if we consume them. We tend to trade healthful food for quick and snappy meals or fast food. In the long run organic food products are cheaper because we have fewer doctor visits and feel better. Paying a little more now will reap paying less for health in the future.

http://www.cypresshallfarms.com/

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Chicken tractors are nifty and are what allows pasture raised animals to be successful. They keep the chickens safe from predators and can be moved around to supply fresh grass. During various farm tours, I noticed that the turkeys liked to hang around the chicken tractors. Maybe they are just being friendly or like to stand guard of the chickens.

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Cypress Hall Farm raises heritage breeds of chicken.

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This is where the chickens are taken before being ready to sell. It is done in the most humane manner possible.

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Attempting to pet a turkey.

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My brother discovered the meat rabbits.

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Even the rabbits have their own domain. All the animals receive adequate space and quality care. I enjoyed my family’s tour of Cypress Hall Farm and recommend scheduling a visit.

Saturday, October 4, 2014

Turtle Mist Farm on Eastern Triangle Farm Tour

 

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More and more people are caring about the food they eat. It is becoming more about what was used during the processing of the food than what its appearance is. An apple can be crisp and a golden color, but if it has been laden in pesticides its effect on the body will be detrimental.

The Eastern Triangle Farm Tour happens once a year and is an opportunity to see the local farmers in North Carolina who are applying sustainable and organic practices. Turtle Mist Farm was the first farm we toured. Ginger and Bob Sykes are the proud owners of the farm.  After 30 years of being in the corporate world they decided to step out in faith purchasing a farm that could be used to educate those around them about what goes into producing good wholesome food. They raise heritage breeds of animals and gave a market garden that raises unique and unusual breeds. Their animals are raised without antibiotics, hormones, or steroids and the same care is taken with the vegetables by only using organically approved pesticides and natural herbicides.

Check out their website: http://www.turtlemistfarm.com/

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The chickens at the farm are pasture raised laying hens. They have Amerucana and Cuckoo Maran chickens that lay green, tan, dark brown, and pink eggs. I was surprised to read that there are chickens that can lay pink eggs! These must make Easter a more festive occasion without needing to use dye.

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The chickens do have living quarters and below is where they can go to lay eggs.

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Chicken tractors are portable and can be moved around daily to supply fresh grass. I think “Sustainable Mowing Device” might also be a fitting title. What could be better than a mowing system that doesn’t require fossil fuels?

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Mallard and Muscovy ducks are raised on the farm.

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The picture doesn’t do these hogs justice! The big one must have weighed at least 600 pounds.

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This is a Bourbon Red turkey and the photo on the right was photographed in the middle of doing the famous “gobble” noise.

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My brother was absolutely mesmerized by the bunnies. He takes care of the bunnies we have on our own micro-farm.

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Turtle Mist Farm also has Guineas, quail, and peacocks. The other non bird animals are cows, sheep, horses, goats, and a donkey.

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Turtle Mist Farm gives pony rides.

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During the event the owner of BeeClean Soap had a booth set up. Here is a link to see them. http://www.carolinabees.com/store/beeclean-soap

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Well, that concludes the tour! I’ll be posting more farm tours in the upcoming weeks.