The Parkers run a 19-acre diversified farm in Hurdle Mills, N.C. with the help of their four children: Mandi, Tiffany, Kendall and Martin. Both Renee and Randall grew up on farms, and they now farm land that has been in Randall’s family for many generations. The Parkers recently expanded their operation to include pastured Animal Welfare Approved pigs for the wholesale market. They are also raising free-range chickens and beef cattle. At any given time, they have between 60 to 75 Farmer’s Hybrid pigs at different stages of growth to ensure that there is a continuous supply for their market.

Renee says that keeping everyone well watered in drought periods can be challenging, but she is fortified by her successes. Renee is becoming an expert in her own right, though she has sought the advice of fellow Animal Welfare Approved farmers Eliza MacLean and Mike Jones, also North Carolina hog producers. In addition to drawing upon the knowledge of fellow farmers, Renee also consults with family members and people within her church. Her extension agent, Karen McAdams, has also played an important role. On the difference between confinement and pasture-based management, Renee says that the latter is more time- and labor-consuming, but the benefits far outweigh the extra effort.