If you’re at all interested in making sure your food comes from sustainable sources, then you’re probably familiar with Niman Ranch. The company began in the ’70s with a Northern California property that raised beef cattle in a way that was determinedly humane and sustainable, and delivered high-quality meats to a select group of high-end restaurants. In the mid ’90s, the company added pork to its offerings, thanks to a partnership with Paul Willis, a hog farmer in Thornton, Iowa. These days, a network of more than 675 ranches and farms works on contract with Niman Ranch, according to the company’s strict guidelines for humane animal treatment, sustainable agriculture practices and quality product. Paul Willis continues in a leadership role in Niman Ranch while he manages his own hog farm.
On Friday, August 3, I’ll have the pleasure of a conversation with Paul Willis, as he’s the featured speaker at the Ohio Valley Greenmarket. This three-day event is co-sponsored by my friends at Edible Ohio Valley magazine and the Hamilton County Parks Department. I’ll be sharing a question-and-answer discussion with Paul and taking questions from the audience.
Learn more about the Ohio Valley Greenmarket and purchase event tickets here!
Virginia Creeper covers an old barn and silo at Peach Mountain Organics; photo (c) Bryn Mooth