After serving 27 years in the United States Military, John Lamondes made a deliberate choice to pursue farming, a lifelong dream sparked by his childhood experiences working on a farm. Today, he owns and operates Elly’s Acres, a sheep and maple farm specializing in pasture-raised, grass-fed, hormone- and antibiotic-free lamb, as well as fine wool.
In our video tour of Elly’s Acres, John highlights that farming is far more complex than it appears. From disease and pest management to marketing, agriculture requires a level of strategic planning and adaptability that closely mirrors military service. He explains that planning is a fundamental skill instilled in service members at all levels, and those same skills translate seamlessly into farming. Veterans often bring invaluable experience to society, though their contributions aren’t always fully recognized. For John, the discipline and situational awareness developed in the military remain a part of him—now applied to ensuring the health and well-being of his animals. He constantly evaluates, adjusts, and refines his approach to keep his farm running smoothly.
Interestingly, John’s exposure to fiber production began in the military, where he needed to understand textiles for uniforms and equipment. He later expanded his knowledge through Cornell Cooperative Extension classes, which provided insights into all aspects of farming. Financial guidance from Farm Credit East also played a crucial role in helping him establish and grow his operation.
Since the filming of our video, Elly’s Acres has doubled in size and expanded its product offerings. Alongside premium lamb and wool, they now produce a range of woolen goods, including hats, mittens, gloves, and socks—all made from their own fiber. To meet growing demand, they’ve invested in efficiency-boosting equipment like a tractor and skid steer. Their next big step? Installing a commercial on-site freezer to further enhance their operations.
Elly’s Acres continues to evolve, embodying the same dedication and strategic thinking that guided John through his military career—now applied to the land, his livestock, and the future of his farm.
