People want to know where their food comes from. And we think they should be able to find out. That’s why we’re happy to introduce you to some of our family farmers. They take pride in raising chickens to share with you and your family.
Dale and Ann are third-generation farmers who live and work in McLean County, Kentucky, on 60 acres of land that's been in the family since 1997. There they raise chickens and grow hay and hemp. Dale entered the poultry industry upon retirement from the military; the occupation provides sufficient income and allows Dale to stay close to his beloved farm. This couple takes pride in their work and always strive to do better, qualities they say they appreciate in their contacts at Perdue.
Some people were born to farm, and James of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is one of them. He was born and raised on a farm that's been in his family for 72 years, and his parents later handed it down to him. His most treasured memory is winning the 'Organic Grower of the Year' award four times. This wouldn't have been possible without James' persistence in providing the best environment for his chickens.
One of Corris' proudest moments in his 15+ years of farming was being named the top producer after his second flocks of birds. With Corris, consumers can rest assured that his animals are handled with care and that his farm remains clean at all times. He's a third-generation farmer who followed in his father's footsteps in raising chickens. This wasn't a hard decision for him to make, as he admires the way Perdue has always promoted foundations and practices that put family first. Corris lives in Martin County, North Carolina, and operates five houses.
Justin joined the Perdue family by following in the footsteps of his uncle, who raised chickens for Perdue. Hearing his uncle's stories piqued his interest, and as soon as the opportunity to become a grower presented itself, Justin jumped on it. He loves the day-to-day experiences of farming, and making a living through it is icing on the cake. The farm has always been his home. He remembers riding in the tractor with his Dad when he was small, feeling the warm sun through the windshield and not having a care in the world. Justin wants to be remembered for his passion, not only for raising chickens but for everything he does in life.
Lifelong farmers who live in Snyder County, Pennsylvania, Jim and Brenda make up the sixth generation in their family to farm, a tradition that dates all the way back to 1817. Taking their son out to the field is one of their most treasured memories. The funniest moment would have to be the time when their terrier chased a rabbit, which turned around and chased the dog back. Jim and Brenda operate two houses and raise steers and grow corn, beans and hay.
Burl is a farmer in Ohio County, Kentucky, who raises 48,200 chicks. He is a second-generation farmer with 50 years of experience and has worked with Perdue since 1997. Growing up, Burl's mother would order 100 baby chicks from Sears every spring. Now, he gets 211,000 of his own every year.
Jamie lives in Bertie County, North Carolina, and is part of a legacy of farmers that spans four generations. His farm has been in his family since the 1950s. Jamie built new houses and is amazed by how one place can constantly give rise to new memories. He enjoys watching his daughter learn to ride, raise and train horses and inviting his son to work alongside him. He works across a total of 228 acres and grows corn and soybeans while also raising horses.
Farmer Joel Wayne Smith grew up on a farm and purchased his first cow at age 16. Today this hardworking farmer manages 1,000 acres of land in Ohio County, Kentucky. There, he raises chickens, cattle and sheep and grows crops, like corn, soybeans and hay. He added the poultry operation to support his income and also produce fertilizer from the litter for crops and hay. Joel strives to be a good steward of the land and instill in his grandchildren a strong work ethic. Memories of farming alongside his father ' breeding cattle, clearing and cropping land and fixing fences ' serve as daily inspiration.
Jared and Elisabeth live in Kent County, Delaware, and have two chicken houses on the 190-acre farm they purchased in 2014. Each house is home to 34,800 birds. Tending to chickens began as a way to add stability to their farming operation, but has grown into a true passion. The two take great pride in what they do and give 100% when raising their birds.