Otter Creek Farm Transitioning to Regenerative, Grassfed, Diversified Operation By Becky Gillette

In this episode, Brad and Elizabeth of Otter Creek Farm share their journey transitioning a multi-generation New York farm from a conventional model to a diversified, regenerative, fully grassfed operation. The episode explores how they rebuilt their systems around animal welfare, soil health, transparency, and community connection, and why direct marketing became the heartbeat of their business.

Brad and Elizabeth walk through the decisions that shaped their operation — from abandoning commodity markets to developing a robust meat share program, pursuing Animal Welfare Approved and Certified Grassfed certifications, and introducing farm stays to deepen customer relationships. Their story highlights the practical realities, challenges, and rewards of regenerative farming in a cold-weather climate.

🔑 Key Points Covered:

1. The Transition to Regenerative Farming: Why Otter Creek moved away from conventional practices and toward a holistic, humane, grass-based system.

2. The Power of Meat Shares: How selling directly to customers through a subscription-like share model transformed their income stability and customer loyalty.

3. Certifications That Matter: The impact of AGW’s AWA and Certified Grassfed programs on marketing, animal care, and customer trust.

4. Winter & Drought Management: Strategies the farm uses to maintain animal health, protect soil, and ensure feed availability in tough seasons.

5. Diversification for Stability: Why they added farm stays, poultry, and thoughtful enterprise mix — and what they don’t do anymore (like haying).

6. Marketing Through Transparency: How newsletters, education, on-farm experiences, and storytelling help customers feel connected to their food and the farm’s mission.

🌱 Actionable Insights:

1. Build customer trust with clear communication and behind-the-scenes access — it strengthens loyalty and supports premium pricing.

2. Consider a meat share or subscription model to gain early-season cash flow and predictable revenue.

3. Don’t hesitate to collaborate with neighboring farms to reduce workload, outsource weaker enterprises, or expand offerings responsibly.

4. Use certifications strategically — the right ones can reinforce your values and enhance your branding.

5. Design your enterprise mix around what you do best, what the land supports, and what brings both profitability and joy.

📌 For more insights and resources, be sure to visit us here for our latest specials and exclusive offers:
👉 stockmangrassfarmer.digital

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