A Commitment to Pasture-Based Farming
From the very beginning, the goal of Marion Acres was simple: to produce high-quality food in a way that respects both the animals and the land. Their philosophy revolves around rotational grazing, a practice that allows animals to move naturally across the pasture, improving soil health and reducing environmental impact. “Rotational grazing is at the heart of what we do. Moving animals daily keeps the pasture healthy, replenishes the soil, and creates better conditions for the livestock,” says co-founder John Mathia, highlighting the regenerative impact of their farming practices.
This pasture-based model extends beyond their livestock. Their chickens roam freely across the fields, scratching the soil and eating a natural diet of bugs, worms, and grasses. This not only keeps pests in check but also improves soil health, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. As a result, the meat and eggs produced at Marion Acres are more flavorful, nutrient-dense, and reflective of the land they come from.
By allowing the animals to graze naturally, the farm mimics the cycles of the wild, creating a closed-loop system that regenerates rather than depletes resources. Their eggs, dairy, and produce all follow the same seasonal rhythms, ensuring the freshest, most sustainable offerings possible. Seasonal eating, they believe, isn’t just about flavor—it’s about working in harmony with nature and supporting biodiversity in their fields.
Transparency at the Core
Marion Acres welcomes visitors to see exactly how their food is raised. This open-door policy isn’t just for marketing; it’s an invitation to reconnect with where food comes from. “People can come here and see exactly what’s going on... If you're standing here watching us do all of the chicken. It’s pretty simple,” says co-founder Geoff Scott.
In a world where food production is often hidden behind factory walls, industrial farms operate at a scale that prioritizes efficiency over ethics. Mega farms confine animals in cramped, inhumane conditions, relying on antibiotics and synthetic feed to maximize output. These practices not only compromise animal welfare but also degrade soil health and contribute to environmental pollution.
Marion Acres offers something rare: authenticity. Their animals are raised in open pastures, given space to roam, and fed a natural diet that enhances both their well-being and the quality of the final product. By making their process visible, they foster trust and a deeper appreciation for sustainable farming, proving that livestock farming can be done in a way that respects both the animals and the land.
More Than a Farm: Building a Local Food Hub
Beyond their own production, Marion Acres is invested in supporting local farmers and food producers. Their Helvetia Farm Market, located on-site, is a hub for fresh, locally sourced goods. Here, customers can find not only Marion Acres' meats but also products from like-minded farmers and artisans, reinforcing the strength of a local food system. “We wanted to create a space where people can come and experience farm life in a way that feels inviting,” says co-founder Geoff Scott. “You can grab a cup of coffee, pick up some fresh meat, and just enjoy the countryside.”
The market is more than just a place to shop—it’s a destination. With a coffee shop, a wine bar, and a welcoming space to gather, it’s designed to be a place where families can spend time together, learn about where their food comes from, and enjoy the beauty of the Oregon countryside. Whether stopping in for a fresh cut of pasture-raised meat or sitting outside with a glass of wine, visitors experience a direct connection to the land and the people who farm it. This marketplace extends their mission beyond their own farm, creating an ecosystem where small-scale, sustainable producers can thrive together. It’s a win for local businesses, a win for the environment, and a win for consumers looking for high-quality, ethical food options.
Sustainable Farming is About People, Too
Sustainability at Marion Acres isn’t just about the land and animals—it’s about people. They prioritize fair wages and meaningful work for their employees, recognizing that a sustainable business model must support its workers just as much as its livestock. “We’re paying for the lives of the people that work here, too. You know, there's sustainable wages,” Mathia explains. In an industry where farm labor is often undervalued, Marion Acres is setting a new standard, ensuring that everyone involved in the process is treated with dignity and respect.
A Model for the Future of Farming
Marion Acres proves that small-scale farming doesn’t have to mean small impact. By focusing on sustainability, transparency, and community, they’ve built a thriving business that serves as a model for what the future of agriculture can look like. Marion Acres stands as a testament to a food system built on integrity, where the land is nurtured, animals are respected, and quality is never compromised. Their approach to farming demonstrates that sustainability and ethics are not just ideals but practical, achievable standards. By prioritizing transparency and regenerative practices, they offer a compelling vision for the future of agriculture—one where both the environment and the people who depend on it can thrive.
