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Importance of Transparency

written by

Ben Simmons

posted on

December 13, 2020

Wikipedia defines Transparency, as used in science, engineering, business, the humanities and in other social contexts, is operating in such a way that it is easy for others to see what actions are performed. Transparency implies openness, communication, and accountability.

I bring this up because being transparent is a key principle that our farm operates on.

By early February of this year we completed a consulting gig with a person who helped us set up an email marketing program. So, if you are a new customer since then you have received a series of emails that introduce you to our farm to include our regenerative soil practices, animal handling, how we do certain things like feeding cows hay, and etc.

We also show you how your order is packed and take you along on a delivery route for the day.

It's really a behind the scenes "nuts & bolts" look at what, why, and how we farm because we believe it is important for you to know us and feel comfortable (trust) that our farm fits your families need for nutrient dense, healthy, and humanly raised beef, pork, chicken, and eggs.

I even share my military journey and transition to being "your farmer".

This week I received an email from a new customer who actually made her first purchase in October and had just received our marketing email on transitioning to being your farmer. She gave me permission to share what she said:

"I just have to say I love your emails, videos and marketing. My kids have enjoyed watching and learning about the farm and animals. But as a online marketer of wellness products I love love love how transparent and personal you are in your marketing system.

And we love your meat. Please let me know if you have instagram, or facebook so I can tag you in my posts of how good your meats are. Thank you again."

In that email, I share three lessons learned. Please allow me to share #3 with you here. The last lesson learned I'll mention is being authentic! You know, I'm constantly amazed at the farmer websites that give the impression their beef is grassfed (because the cow is standing on nice green grass) when in reality they finish them on grain.

A customer should not have to ask to confirm if the beef is OR is not grassfed and grass-finished!!!

At Nature's Gourmet Farm we operate the Old Fashioned Way - we clearly say what we do AND
do what we say!

I certainly hope this bit of insight about my military career, transition to regenerative farming, and key lessons learned have been insightful to help you learn more about me and our farm.

Why does this matter?

Now more than ever consumers are searching for healthy food that will build healthy immune systems for their families. They know the value of pasture-raised beef, pork, chicken, and eggs as well as the risk associated with GMO grains that are feed to conventionally raised animals in confined animal feeding operations.

Consumers want to be able to put a face to the farmer who raise their food and trust our products to be what we say.

We hope you have joined our farm community and regularly shop our online store for your families needs. Thank you!

If not, please hit reply and let us know how we can help.

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Beef Pricing Update & Sausage

Beef Pricing Update – Beef prices continue to increase and hit a new All-Time high AGAIN last week. This week, the Chief Production Officer (CPO) for JBS Meats (one of the four largest beef packers) stated that prices will remain high for at least the next two years. His rationale was the low cow herd numbers, little to no indication farmers/ranchers are retaining females to grow their herds (at these high prices they are taking the money now while it is there); when females are being retained it will take over 2.5 years before a calf will be ready for harvest (9-month gestation + about 24 months old at harvest). Lastly, consumer demand remains strong.