Sycamore Spring Farm

 

We think it is important to preserve our Heritage Breeds.

The need for livestock conservation is urgent. Many of our heritage breeds are threatened because agriculture has changed. There are fewer small farms and modern food production now favors the use of a few highly specialized breeds selected for maximum output in controlled environments.  Many traditional livestock breeds have lost popularity and are threatened with extinction. They are an essential part of our American agricultural inheritance and an important resource for our future. Keeping these breeds alive protects genetic bio-diversity in livestock and poultry species. The loss of these breeds would impoverish agriculture and diminish the human spirit. For the sake of future generations we must work together to safeguard these treasures.
You can help preserve Heritage Breeds by purchasing their meat, eggs and dairy products.
Scottish Highland Cattle-The Highland is the oldest registered breed of cattle, with the first herd book being established in 1884. Highland beef is meat that is lean, well marbled and flavorful, with little outside waste fat (the Highland is insulated by long hair rather than a thick layer of fat). For over 20 years, the Highland and Highland crosses have graded in the top of their respective classes at the prestigious National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado. In the British Isles, Highland beef is recognized as the finest available and fetches premium prices.

Delaware, New Hampshire,  Rhode Island Red & Speckled Sussex chickens- Some of the finest brown egg laying, dual purpose chicken breeds listed by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy.

Dark Cornish Chicken- Cornish are broader breasted and shorter legged than the traditional barnyard fowl. The meat is slightly darker on the Cornish but the skin lighter - its taste is exceptional. Developed as the ultimate meat bird, the Cornish has contributed its genes to build the vast broiler industry of the world. Originally named the "Indian Game," the Cornish is an English breed that came to this country in the 19th century. The true original Cornish are movers and need space to exercise and develop their muscles. This variety is very rare at this level of purity.
 

Muscovy Ducks-The Muscovy Duck has been domesticated for centuries, and is commercially known as the Barbary duck. This breed is popular because it has delicious tasting meat and is less noisy than other domestic breeds. The meat is lean, unlike the fatty meat of Mallard derivative ducks, the leanness and tenderness being often compared to that of veal.

Dewlap Toulouse Geese-As the name suggests, originates from the area around Toulouse in southwest France. It is a large bird, with a weight of up to 32lbs The original grey colored breed is a very old one and the name has been recorded back as far as 1555. The breed was first brought to the United Kingdom in 1840. People have long selected the French Toulouse as a utility bird found on small farms and homesteads. These general purpose farm birds are also known for their delicacy-"fois gras". The breed is endangered.

Narragansett Turkeys- have traditionally been known for their calm disposition, good maternal abilities, early maturation, egg production, and excellent meat quality. This historic variety is unique to North America. According to the  American Livestock Breeds Conservancy it's status is Threatened. Order Early for the Holidays. Deposits are due by June 15 to guarantee a bird for Thanksgiving or Christmas.



Goats for meat & milk

Goats for meat & milk