Mastodon Valley Farm

The farm's origins trace back to a realization about the importance of integrating human activity with ecosystem restoration. Inspired by the historical management of Oak Savanna ecosystems by Native Americans, the founders aimed to create a functional ecosystem that produces food while restoring the land. Frustrated with modern restoration techniques, they decided to establish a farm that mimics ancient grazing patterns and integrates humans as keystone species. This led to the birth of the farm, which now focuses on producing and selling ecosystem-derived meats.

The farm employs rotational grazing, moving cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, turkeys, and chickens in sequences around the land to mimic Pleistocene grazing patterns. Animals are raised without hormones or antibiotics and have continuous access to sunshine and shade. Cattle are fed a diverse diet of grass, flowers, shrubs, and trees, while pigs, chickens, and turkeys receive locally-grown, GMO-free grains in addition to foraging. These practices aim to restore savanna ecosystems, build soil, enhance biodiversity, and sequester carbon.

The farm offers a Meat CSA, delivering monthly bundles of nutrient-dense meats to various locations in the Midwest. They also provide courses and consulting services to help others design and manage regenerative agro-ecosystems. The farm's mission includes planting thousands of trees and managing the land in a way that mimics ancient ecosystems, providing both ecological benefits and high-quality meats.