Our Farming Practices
Two Family Farms, One Shared Commitment
Countryside Mercantile is the result of a partnership between two family farms, working hand-in-hand to provide high-quality, nutrient-dense foods. While our cows are milked exclusively at one farm, both families collaborate closely to ensure every product meets our shared standards of excellence.
All of the feed for our cattle is thoughtfully sourced right here in South Dakota—from our own farms or neighboring producers who grow crops organically, with care and integrity.
Humane Animal Care is Our Top Priority
Our animals live with dignity and respect. They enjoy unlimited access to nutritious food and plenty of space to roam, play, and spend time outdoors. They live in clean, well-ventilated, and comfortable environments. If any animal gets sick, we provide immediate, compassionate veterinary care.
Sustainable, Restorative Farming for a Healthier Future
We raise our animals with a focus on long-term environmental health, animal welfare, and responsible resource use. Our approach actively improves the land, soil, and ecosystems we depend on, with these key practices:
Animal Welfare: Low-stress, humane living conditions that allow natural behaviors
Free to Roam on grass: Keep cows clean and active for a healthy lifestyle.
Soil Restoration: Grazing strategies that boost plant growth, soil biology, and water retention
Carbon Sequestration: Practices that pull carbon back into the soil to offset emissions
Biodiversity Support: Encouraging diverse plant and insect life for ecosystem health
Local, Ethical Feed: Sourcing organic, non-GMO, and locally grown feed to support the community and reduce environmental impact
This is more than “doing less harm.” It’s about leaving the land better for future generations.
Our Vaccination Approach: Thoughtful and Transparent
We want to be upfront about our approach to vaccines. Our animals have never received mRNA vaccines, and we have no plans to use them. We don’t follow a routine vaccination schedule, but if an animal’s health requires it—or to prevent disease spread—traditional vaccines may be administered under veterinary guidance.
Our focus is on natural immunity, low-stress environments, and strong animal health, balanced with responsible care when truly necessary.
Not Certified Organic—but Rooted in Integrity
We aren’t a certified organic farm, so legally we can’t label our products “organic,” even though that’s what many customers expect when seeking clean, natural food.
However, we follow nearly all organic principles and then some. Our food is always free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, antibiotics, hormones, irradiation, and any strange chemicals or sludge. Simply put, it’s natural, wholesome food grown with care.
We prefer to spend our time farming—not navigating costly certifications and paperwork. If you want to know more about how we do things, just ask! We’re an open book and happy to share our story.
