Eric and Sandy Jones offer pigs born and raised at Jones Hill Ranch
DRURY, MO. – Jones Hill Ranch demonstrates the potential for small-scale farms to contribute to a more sustainable food system.
Owned and operated by Eric and Sandy Jones, the farm is situated on 300 acres of woodland near Drury, Mo. Eric and Sandy, who relocated from Wisconsin to Missouri eight months ago, apply a commitment to sustainable and efficient agriculture to their farming endeavors.
The ranch specializes in raising heritage Yorkshire pigs from start to finish, chosen for their mothering abilities on pasture and quality meat and fat distribution.
The herd consists of seven sows and one boar, managed using natural breeding practices to ensure a strong genetic line. Piglets are born and raised on the farm, with sows given ample space and time for nurturing their young.
“Our piglets are weaned at a minimum of six weeks,” Sandy said. “More time with mom makes a big difference in fat cell development and therefore overall taste.”
In the future, the Joneses estimate their herd will produce approximately 140 meat pigs per year.
Rotational grazing is a central aspect of the farm’s management practices. Each group of pigs is moved through a system of six pastures connected by electrical fencing, allowing continuous access to fresh forage while minimizing soil compaction and erosion.
This method also contributes to soil health by distributing manure evenly across the pastures, promoting nutrient cycling and microbial activity.
Jones Hill Ranch prioritizes the health and welfare of its animals by providing access to fresh water sources and a balanced diet formulated by the local MFA cooperative. The feed, based on corn and soy, is free from antibiotics, preventative medications, and hormone additives.
In addition to their focus on animal welfare, Eric and Sandy employ regenerative farming techniques to enhance their land’s overall ecosystem health. Silvopasture, characterized by a mix of native trees and grasses, provides shade, shelter, and forage for the pigs while supporting biodiversity and soil fertility. The Joneses stated they utilize restorative practices such as reseeding and replanting to maintain pasture health and productivity.
“If we’re going to have an animal, we want one that can coexist with the forest,” Eric added.
Jones Hill Ranch adopts a direct-to-consumer marketing approach, relying on word-of-mouth referrals and social media platforms, such as Instagram, to connect with customers. This grassroots strategy allows for greater transparency and accountability in their business operations.
“We want to share every aspect of the journey with our customers,” Sandy said.
Jones Hill Ranch exemplifies a holistic approach to sustainable pig farming through the integration of ethical animal husbandry with regenerative land management practices.
According to Sandy, the main goal of the operation is to provide people with a good alternative to mass production meat.
“More and more people want something natural, safe. They want to know where it comes from.”
Jones Hill Ranch offers a variety of purchasing options to meet the needs of its customers. They sell whole and half pigs, allowing consumers to purchase larger quantities of meat directly from the farm. Additionally, they offer sausage bundles, providing a convenient and versatile option for those looking to explore different flavors.
Whether you’re looking to stock up on quality pork products or simply curious about sustainable farming practices, Jones Hill Ranch invites visitors to explore their offerings and join them on their journey towards a more ethical and environmentally conscious food system.
