Land & Legacy Vol.1
Introducing Land & Legacy, a series where we celebrate the pioneers of American agriculture. Meet the families and farmers reshaping our food's future through innovation and tradition!
Newer Post
Golden Hour Farm Interview
Here at Sackett Ranch, we understand that the heart of America beats in the vast, open lands where the sun rises over fields, and the legacy of our nation is written in soil by the true backbone of our nation. With our new series, Land & Legacy we aim to shine a spotlight on the trailblazers, the innovators, and the stewards of the agricultural world - those individuals and families who aren't just working the land but are redefining what it means to be in America's ag industry.
In this series, we'll delve into the lives of those who rise before dawn to nurture the earth beneath their feet, sharing their stories of perseverance, innovation, and passion. We'll explore how they tackle modern challenges while honoring age-old traditions, ensuring that agriculture remains not just a profession, but a heritage passed down through generations. From sustainable farming practices to the integration of technology in ranching, each volume of Land & Legacy will bring you closer to the people who feed our nation, educate us about our food's journey, and inspire the next generation of farmers and ranchers. Join us as we talk with Chelsea from Golden Hour Farms, to hear their unique story about their ranching journey.
How did Golden Hour Farm get started?
Golden Hour Farm began as a family passion for raising quality cattle and a love for preserving the traditional way of life. Our story started in Europe, playing professional basketball, and having our first babies! After 9 years of living on cobble stone streets and watching my husband, Spencer, on the court, we were ready for a slower pace for our growing family. We looked to plant roots back home in America, and decided on raising Scottish Highland Cattle (a breed we quickly fell in love with due to their gentle nature, hardiness, heritage traits, and of course their adorable fluffy winter coats!). What started as a small operation quickly grew into a full-scale ranch! Focused on breeding, raising, and marketing Scottish Highland cattle, we have poured everything we have into this farm and the animals we raise.
What all does your farm produce/offer?
Highland cattle are a rare breed here in America, and we’ve found a niche in producing and offering embryos and recipient cows with our elite genetics. This makes it easier and more affordable for others to access quality Highland cattle without the upfront cost of purchasing a live registered Highland outright.
We also produce grass-fed and mountain pasture-raised beef, which can be shipped right to your doorstep anywhere in the mainland U.S.!
Beyond cattle, we offer horseback rides on the ranch, giving visitors a chance to experience our cattle and landscapes up close. This has been one of our favorite additions to the farm in recent years, as it’s allowed us to meet so many wonderful people from our social media community. We love getting to connect face-to-face and share what makes ranch life so special!
What is a day in the life look like as far as running the ranch?
A day on the ranch is always busy and varied. It starts early with feeding and checking on the animals, ensuring they are healthy and content. We have cattle, horses, goats, dogs, chickens, and one cat (who is a great mouser!). From there, tasks range from fence repairs, taking kids to and from school, pasture rotation, vet checks for embryo work, and working the horses. Spencer team ropes, and puts in many hours keeping his horses well conditioned for ranch life and roping. Once a week we are prepping and shipping out beef orders, and we’re frequently coordinating with buyers for live cattle and embryos. In short-it’s always busy at the farm! Every season brings new challenges—calving, haying, and managing the land—but the life is deeply rewarding.
What are some challenges you face in the modern day farming world?
Some of the biggest challenges we face include the rising cost of inputs like feed and equipment, the unpredictability of weather, and the constant need to educate the public about sustainable farming practices. One of the most significant hurdles is the increasing cost and scarcity of farmland, as more and more open spaces are sold for development. Preserving agricultural land is critical, not just for farmers but for communities that benefit from locally grown food and open pastures.
Additionally, finding a balance between traditional farming methods and modern technology can be both challenging and rewarding. We’re constantly working to maintain the integrity of our ranch while adapting to the changing demands of the industry and the environment.
What are some things you’d like the public to know/appreciate about the agriculture industry?
Agriculture is the backbone of our society, yet it often goes unnoticed. Every steak, loaf of bread, and gallon of milk starts on a farm with a farmer tending to an animal or plot of land with their own two hands. We’d love for people to understand the dedication, hard work, and care that farmers put into their work—not just for profit but for the land, the animals, and the future. Supporting local agriculture helps preserve that connection and ensures healthier, more sustainable food.
What are some goals that your family has for your ranch?
Our main goal is to continue improving the genetics of our herd, ensuring they remain true to the Scottish Highland breed while excelling in quality, docility, and growth. We also aim to expand our reach and become a trusted beef provider for our local community. It makes much more sense for families in our area to source their beef from us—where they know it’s pasture-raised here in Utah—rather than from a store, where it could have been raised halfway around the world under unknown conditions.
What is your favorite part about your lifestyle?
The best part of ranch life is being connected to the land, the animals, and the seasons. There’s something special about watching the sunrise over the pastures or seeing a calf take its first steps. One of my favorite things is being able to hop on a horse and go riding through the hills at a moments notice! It’s a lifestyle that’s demanding but incredibly fulfilling, and it offers the perfect environment for raising a family.
We love that our kids get to grow up surrounded by wide-open spaces, learning the value of hard work, and developing a deep appreciation for nature and animals. They get to experience all the ups and downs of life on the ranch, from caring for newborn calves to riding horses across the pastures. There’s no better place to teach them important life lessons, build resilience, and make memories they’ll cherish forever.
A Message From the Family
We’re so grateful for the support we’ve received, whether it’s from our local community or our online followers. Running a ranch isn’t always easy, especially while raising a young family! But the connections we’ve made with people who appreciate agriculture and sustainable practices keep us going. We’re proud of what we do and hope to inspire others to value and support family farms like ours.
~Chelsea from Golden Hour Farms
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through Golden Hour Farms in this first volume of "Land & Legacy," we're reminded of the profound connection between the land we cultivate and the legacy we leave behind. Their story isn't just about raising cattle; it's about preserving a way of life, nurturing family bonds, and fostering community through sustainable practices.
We hope this glimpse into Golden Hour Farms has given you insight and a greater understanding of the realm of ranch life. Let's continue to support and celebrate the farmers and ranchers who are the stewards of our land, ensuring that the legacy of farming continues to thrive. Thank you for joining us in this series, and stay tuned for more stories of land, legacy, and the indomitable spirit of those who cultivate it.
We'll see you next time on Land & Legacy as we continue to highlight our friends in ag!
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