BF Farms has been farming and raising livestock for five generations. We are currently transitioning into a more holistic approach on our farm. Our goal is to use as little "outside inputs" as possible by making every acre of our farm as fertile as that homestead of yesteryear. Currently we have added hair sheep, Lowline, and Lowline-cross Angus together with a rotation of crops and legumes. A mental adjustment is also transpiring. Instead of seeking higher yields and bigger animals at all cost, the focus is on minimizing inputs, rotating cash crops, legumes, and animals on the same land, utilizing no-till planting so biological activity in the soil is not disturbed, and rotating animals from paddock to paddock to ensure healthy grazing. The health and well being of our animals are extremely important to us. Our animals are allowed to behave naturally and they have the opportunity to interact socially and follow their instinctive behaviors.
Using "Composite Breeding," we are breeding for animals, whether sheep or cattle, that are effecient, "easy keeping" animals. Emphasis is on pounds of meat per acre and not pounds of meat per animal. Length of time from birth to market can greatly affect profits. Lambs must market at five to six months of age and cattle at approximately nine months of age. Younger animals almost always produce more tender meat and selecting for early maturing animals cuts down on the feeding bill. It is through "Composite Breeding" that these goals are accomplished.
We at BF Farms, LLC are the first to admit that we do not have all the answers, but we are very excited with our progress to date. We look forward to interacting with other farmers and ranchers to further our education. It is through our shared experiences that we can learn and grow, and we cherish this opportunity.
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