NestFresh Eggs come from small family farms across the country. We love our farmers for the wonderful work they do caring for our hens every day. We want to share some of their stories so those who enjoy our eggs can get to know these farmers, too. Lyndal started a small farm in Iowa to produce pastured eggs for NestFresh. Here he talks about his love for the farm and his hens.
Please tell us a little about your farm.
Our little country farm consists of a portion of 5 acres, just big enough for our big garden, a lot of trees, two old apple trees and ten little fruit trees we planted ourselves. We have a big garden, grow our own sweet corn and popcorn, and can a lot of our own produce. And, of course, we have a new chicken barn and the required acreage for pasture.
Why did you become a farmer?
Well, we simply needed more income! And having pasture-raised chickens fit the bill for us because we love chickens and we really promote the importance of them being able to go out on the pasture.
What makes your eggs special?
Eggs from pastured chickens are just plain better and tastier. Our chickens love going outside, scratching, spinning, taking dust baths and enjoying the great outdoors. They love the fresh green grass they get on our farm.
What is your favorite part about taking care of the hens?
For me, its gathering eggs. When we’re walking, chickens land on our backs or shoulders or hitch a ride on the egg basket. Kaitlyn, our daughter, just plain likes chickens and loves to walk around the farm with them.
How long have you been farming?
I have been farming for 1 ½ years and have been knee-deep in garden farming and natural fertilizing for nearly 10 years.
What is your favorite way to enjoy eggs?
Breakfast dishes like biscuits and gravy with eggs or an egg casserole with sautéed onions, sausage and bread crumbs.
What is a typical day like for you?
I arise from slumber, grab a handful of nuts, and head for the chicken house. Most of our chicken chores are done in the morning. Then I usually eat breakfast (hopefully with eggs) after chores. I either do odd jobs or finishing touches on the chicken house. Then I get to farming, working in the field during planting and harvesting seasons. In the winter we build irrigator bridges for other farmers like us. I come home for lunch and then finish chores and settle the chickens down for the night after I get back in the evening. My wife and daughters fill in with choring while I’m doing fieldwork.
What is the most important part of your job?
Making sure the hens are fed, have water, and are happy and healthy is the most important part of the operation.
