We’re thrilled to welcome to our list of sponsors Pasture Present Farms, a locally-based, family-run small-scale dairy and poultry operation owned and operated locally by a small-scale, locally-operated family-run family.
Over three generations, the Present family has taken justified pride in their hands-on approach to producing their milk, butter, cheese, cream, and egg products, making sure to wash their hands thoroughly after every production. They are the recipients of numerous awards and commendations, including a Certificate of Concern from the League of Concerned Scientists and a Notable Mention from its sister organization, the League of Concerned Scientists’ Sisters. Its flagship product, Ethical Eggs from Morally-Impeccable Chickens, has been granted the coveted Seal of Grudging Approval from People for the Ethical Treatment of People by Eggs.
Pasture Present Farms comprises some 1,569 acres in central New Hampshire. Its vaunted “happy hens” enjoy fresh air and sunshine, as well as free-range foraging, open-air al fresco dining, and a broad variety of activities, from archery to zip-lines, and featuring spirited competition in a range of team sports including softball and volleyball. Swim instruction, from Beginner through Junior and Senior Lifesaving, is available in their Olympic-sized swimming pool. And every Friday night is Talent Night, at which hens and roosters alike get to “strut their stuff” and display their unique abilities.
The farm’s dairy cattle enjoy a similar unpressured lifestyle, spared the familiar practices of industrial dairy production that bovine species can find so dehumanizing. The cattle are free to graze on ample pasture land, as each season brings opportunities to renew old friendships and form new ones.
Morning milking is a family affair, with clan Present paterfamilias Jim overseeing the process, while afternoon rest period provides everyone, human and cows alike, a welcome respite in which to hang out, “chew the cud,” and write letters home.
(Note: Horseback riding has been suspended, pending investigation of a recent “incident.”)
These enlightened practices, along with all that good, honest New Hampshire air and fairly good, occasionally disingenuous but basically trustworthy New Hampshire water, make the dairy and egg products of Pasture Present Farms some of our favorites, and we’re as happy as their chickens and cows are, to welcome them as sponsors of Learning from Linguine. Happier, even.
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