We are raising grass-fed, pastured Belted Galloways in closely, naturally managed rotationally grazed pastures behind the original tavern (farmhouse). The Belted Galloway is an old breed -- there are references to 'sheeted' cattle occuring in literature and art as early as the 11th Century, though the Belted Galloway's first recorded history indicates that they developed during the 16th Century in the former Galloway district of Scotland, a rugged and hilly seacoast region where hardiness was necessary for survival. The breed is also recognized by their long hair coat. Its course outer coat helps shed the rain, and its soft undercoat provides insulation and waterproofing. Our Belties are provided with evergreens, along with old, untended apple trees for shelter in their pasture. They are entirely grass (pasture and hay) fed -- all nutrients they consume, (excepting the nutrient/mineral block) come directly from grasses and the earth.
Belties are unrivaled as a grazing breed and will utilize coarse grasses other breeds would shun. They are able to maintain good condition on less than ideal pasture, and easily produce a high quality beef product on grass alone. Beltie Beef is juicy, tender, and flavorful. The USDA Cycle IV Germ Plasm Evaluation Program at the Meat Animal Research Center showed that Galloway crosses placed at the top of the chart for flavor, juiciness and tenderness when compared to eleven other breeds. U.S. and Australian breeders have discovered that the thrifty, medium-sized animals more than earn their way in any beef herd.
Today's health conscious consumer wants a product low in fat yet tender, juicy and flavorful. These needs are easily met by the Belted Galloway.
Belted Galloway Cattle possess the correct genetics to perform very well in a grass-based farm setting. They calve easily and have strong mothering abilities. It is for these great qualities that this breed has survived through the ages.
Pastured.
Grass-fed beef is leaner, but more importantly, lower in omega-6 fats that are linked to heart disease. Grass-fed meat are higher in beneficial omega-3 fats and conjugated linoleic acids. Both reduce the risk of heart disease.
An old breed of hearty English derived beefers that we raise - The Belted Galloway