A number of years ago at the Weinbender ranch, we made the decision to start a small herd. The intent was twofold; first to supply our family with healthy grass fed beef, and second, to clean up our overgrown acreage, most of which hadn’t been grazed for 20 years. With both Mom and Dad working full time jobs and three young children to care for, we knew that the breed we chose would have to be hardy and docile, but above all low maintenance. Our research led us to Scottish Highlands. We liked their unique looks right away.  Their long shaggy hair and impressive curved horns often draw inquisitive friends and neighbors closer for a second look. Appearances aside, we learned that they are renowned for their ability to clean up overgrown land, often preferring shaded underbrush and shrubs to grass. They are quiet, calm and among the most self- sufficient of any breed. Today, our “fold” (not “herd” for Highlands) is still small, but steadily growing and we couldn’t be happier with our choice. While our farm isn’t certified organic, we strongly believe in those principles and raise our animals as naturally as we can. That means no growth hormones or unnecessary antibiotics. We never fatten them up on corn or confine them to a feed lot. Our cattle graze on open pastures and woodlands. We bale our own hay in the summer months, which provides their food for the winter. We take an active role in raising healthy animals, naming every new calf and even brushing them when time allows. Since our fold has grown, we’ve exceeded our own family’s needs, which allows us to offer a limited amount of our beef for sale. We have no interest in becoming a large producer, we simply enjoy raising our Highlands and providing a unique, healthier alternative to store-bought beef for our family and friends at a fair price.