Hickory Ridge Farm was founded in the fall of 2018 by April Nugent after she was inspired by a previous independent study project to develop a heritage swine breeding program at the Hampshire College Farm and conduct original undergrad research on nutrition in reproductive sows. As a result of her research of these animals and her work on the breeding project she fell in love with the Gloucestershire Old Spot breed.

 

After establishing the Heritage Pig Breeding program in the fall of 2017 April undertook a 5 month long research project focusing on the nutritional and environmental impacts of raising heritage breed swine on pastures versus in naturally wooded settings. Her findings suggested that swine perform better and are generally more re-productively successful when raised in these more natural environments.

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Using these experiences as a platform for meaningful change in the meat industry April established her own farm to produce sustainably and ethically raised meats and other products. Her hope is that continued public education about the benefits of heritage breeds in the local food system will support the recovery of rare breeds and allow consumers to feel more connected to the food on their plates.

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April currently runs Hickory Ridge as a part time hobby operation on her family's farm in Granby Massachusetts along with the help of her father and Uncle. In addition to running the farm she presents at conferences and in classrooms doing workshops about humane meat production and raising rare breed swine. More information about her work can be read in the "Press" Tab.