“Sustainability” might be a big word, but around here, it’s a simple idea: take care of what you’ve been given so it’s still here tomorrow.
At Finke Farms, we don’t just talk about sustainable farming—we live it, every single day. It’s not a trend to us. It’s the way our family has done things for generations, and it’s how we plan to keep farming for generations to come.
The Land Is Our Partner
To some people, dirt is just dirt. But to us, the soil is alive—it breathes, it feeds, and it deserves respect. We test our soil regularly and rotate our cattle across different pastures to give the land time to rest and regrow. This keeps the grass healthy, which keeps the cows healthy, which keeps you healthy. Funny how it all connects, isn’t it?
We also plant cover crops during off-seasons to protect our soil and hold in moisture. That means less erosion, less runoff, and better grass when spring rolls back around.
Water Matters
When you’ve lived through Texas summers, you learn pretty quickly how precious water really is. That’s why we use smart watering systems to cut down on waste and monitor our usage closely. Rainwater catchment, shaded troughs, and leak checks are all part of the routine.
Our goal is simple: give the cows clean, fresh water and give the land time to soak it in naturally.
Waste Not, Want Not
Here on the farm, we believe in using what we have. That means composting manure to enrich our soil, reusing materials when possible, and turning byproducts like leftover hay or feed into something useful.
Even the “messy” parts of farm life can be part of the solution—if you’re willing to roll up your sleeves and get creative.
Wildlife-Friendly Fencing and Open Skies
We may raise cattle, but we’re also neighbors to birds, rabbits, deer, and more. That’s why we use fencing that keeps cattle in but still allows smaller wildlife to move through safely. Our pastures are home to pollinators, native plants, and natural shade trees that create a thriving little ecosystem of their own.
You can’t force nature to work with you—but if you’re gentle and patient, it usually will.
Teaching the Next Generation
Sustainability means nothing if we don’t pass it on. That’s why we teach our kids and young visitors how to care for the earth, respect the animals, and make choices that help the farm—not hurt it.
Whether they’re helping fix a leaky hose or planting a cover crop, they’re learning that being a good farmer also means being a good steward.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
There’s no fast way to do what we do. Sustainable farming takes time, patience, and a whole lot of faith. It means sometimes saying “no” to quick fixes and sticking to what you know is right—even when it’s harder.
But that’s the Finke Farms way. And we believe it’s worth it.
🌱 Educational Footnote for Younger Readers
What is “sustainable farming”?
It means taking care of the farm so it stays healthy for a long, long time. Here are some examples:
-
Rotating pastures: Moving cows around so the grass has time to grow back.
-
Saving water: Using rain or fixing leaks to stop waste.
-
Composting: Using old manure and hay to help plants grow better.
-
Helping animals and insects: Leaving space for birds, bees, and bunnies to live too.
Try this!
Plant a small garden or keep a compost bin at home. Even little actions—like turning off the water while brushing your teeth—can help the planet. You don’t need a farm to be a good caretaker of the earth.
