Farmers are quick to point out they have an obligation to take care of the environment. We understand a core truth: we are not just beneficiaries of the land, but benefactors. Consumers, and future farmers, are counting on us.

Our families have lived on this land for generations, and we remain devoted stewards of the land, water and air. The owners, John and Joe, reside in close proximity to several barns operated by SFI, as do some of their children and grandchildren. We are committed to preserving the environment…for our family and yours.

There is a sacred awareness in all we do, as we understand we are in a unique position to feed the world while being caretakers of the environment.

Land

Not to boast (too much), but we got to say it: we know how to recycle poop. How cool are we?!?

As farmers, we are some of the original recyclers…and manure is a natural fertilizer! Pig manure is applied to the land, the land sustains the corn, corn is fed to the pigs, pigs make manure, and the cycle begins again. Prior to application, the ground is tested to determine proper application rates; in other words, to ensure the land receives the nutrients it needs to sustain the next crop cycle. Sustainability, from every aspect of “farm to fork,” is key.

Water

The pork industry is committed to all facets of stewardship, and every year makes a significant investment in research to improve practices and our environmental impact. Today, pork producers provide the world 39% more pork, while using 78% less land and 41% less water than 50 years ago. Now that’s stewardship! Check out the work the industry has done to reduce its carbon footprint and its work on water conservation.

Air

Did you know you can use an air fryer to cook pork? And while that’s a fun air topic, so is this: Today’s farmers can track their carbon footprint, from beginning to end! Some farmers even utilize technology like wind turbines and solar panels which has made them become carbon NEGATIVE. What does that mean? In simple terms, it means these farms remove more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than what they emit. (That is almost cooler than knowing how to recycle poop. Almost.)

Many farmers also use their land for natural vegetation or tree windbreaks. In September 2015, Schwartz Farms planted over 50 trees at one of our barn sites. These trees will provide protection for years to come!