Join fellow veterans Thursday, January 22, 2026, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. for a discussion on aspect of selling finished pigs and pork products. We will review the differences between custom exempt and USDA inspected meat processing facilities, and their implications and impacts on a farm’s pig/pork enterprise. Additionally, participants will get to talk with other […]
Join Adam and Ashley McFarland owners and operators of Top Notch Meats as they talk about their breeding decisions and management practices that have resulted in a breeding program that consistently produces champion pigs showcased for quality genetics and breed characteristics that produces the marbling, tenderness, and flavor that make family meals memorable. Their talk […]
When it comes to a healthy diet, the stereotype that pigs only eat slop or scraps could not be more wrong. A pig’s diet will influence its meat’s flavor. Overweight pigs are more likely to become lame and lazy, while well-fed pigs will have strong joints, lean muscles and energy. Protein and nutrient requirements shift […]
Livestock specialist Ashley McFarland and swine producer Adam McFarland- Top Notch Livestock & Meats will teach swine farmers how to recognize early signs of illness or injury in pigs. Participants will learn to observe daily behavior, and other key observations. The session will cover common indicators that change daily on a swine operation. Presenters will […]
Livestock specialist Ashley McFarland and swine producer Adam McFarland- Top Notch Livestock & Meats will guide beginning swine farmers through the essential steps of inspecting and pricing a pig for purchase. Participants will learn how to evaluate structural correctness, body condition, growth potential, and overall health. The session will cover identifying red flags and signs […]
Farm Ops is excited to host Physical Therapist Brian Westlake, DPT, Cert. MDT at the Clear Path for Veterans venue on Saturday, March 28, 2026 to discuss and demonstrate how farmers can use simple cause-and-effect movement analysis known as Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy® to take control and recover from an injury as rapidly as possible. Brian grew […]
Join Farm Ops at veteran owned Centurion Farm, LLC and Benlauck Farm to explore a riparian forest raised pig operation that combines natural foraging with supplemental, nutrient-dense feed. The morning […]
Join us for an informative Working with your Butcher virtual seminar featuring guest speaker Ethan Scheffler, Meat Lab Manager and Operator at The Ohio State University. In this seminar, Ethan will share valuable insights on how to effectively work with your butcher, including key dos and don’ts that can make a big difference in your end product. […]
This farm tour is designed specifically for farmers interested in adding pigs to their operation or improving their current swine management practices on small acreage. Participants will learn the fundamentals […]
In this workshop, we will cover the basics of shiitake mushroom log yard management in a natural woodland setting. These production techniques result in the best quality shiitake that can be produced. These principles can be applied to many other wood-decomposing mushrooms, including Lion’s Mane and Oyster. Workshop objectives: Discuss tree species selection, sourcing supplies […]
This event has been postponed. If you are interested in being contacted once the event has been rescheduled, please email Nina Saeli at ns963@cornell.edu. Top Notch Livestock & Meats houses […]
The Cornell Small Farms Program is pleased to offer an in-person workshop exploring the ins and outs of market gardening. This event is perfect for aspiring and beginning farmers who want to grow and sell vegetables produced intensively on small acreage. Whether you are already growing vegetables for yourself and your family or planning for […]
