The flock of sheep at Rising Sun Farms, started by 12-year-old farmer, Jackson Stinson, is now Certified Animal Welfare Approved by A Greener World (AGW).This certification and food label lets consumers know these animals are raised outdoors on pasture or range in accordance with the highest animal welfare standards in the U.S. and Canada, using sustainable agriculture methods on an independent farm.
“I use pasture-based management because I want my sheep to have a natural experience. I rotate my pastures to help prevent parasite exposure, and it is important to me to show my flock great care, especially during lambing,” said Jackson. “Our AGW certification verifies the quality and care that we put into our animals and farm.”
Jackson’s parents, Chris and Melody, are both educators who value hands-on training and want to inspire lifelong learning in their children. They help each of their three children manage parts of the family farm. Jackson manages the flock of Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW sheep at Rising Sun Farms, which have constant access to pasture and grazing land and eat a diet of grass and forage throughout their lives. This promotes the health and welfare of the animal as well as the environment. The farm uses rotational grazing practices and sustainable farming techniques, which results in lower environmental impact and a higher quality product.
For more information about Rising Sun Farms, follow the farm on Facebook (@homesteadandhustle).