If you're looking for truly pasture-raised poultry in Wisconsin, these five farms are leading the way with sustainable practices and a commitment to quality.
The Rise of Pastured Poultry in Wisconsin
Wisconsin's driftless region and rolling pastures have become a hotbed for pastured poultry farming. Consumers are increasingly seeking out meat that comes from animals raised outdoors, with access to fresh grass, bugs, and sunshine. These farms prioritize animal welfare and soil health, often using portable pens and rotational grazing to keep their birds healthy and the land thriving. The result is leaner, more flavorful chicken that's a far cry from conventional supermarket offerings. For you, this means a direct connection to the source and a product you can feel good about feeding your family.
How We Evaluated These Farms
We looked at each farm's commitment to true pasture-raising, the transparency of their practices, and the range of products and services they offer. We also considered how each farm connects with its local community and whether they provide clear information for customers. Each farm brings something unique to the table, from specialized breeds to diversified farm offerings, and we've highlighted what stood out for each.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five farms we're featuring, so you can see at a glance what each one offers.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Farm Sweet Farm | Health-focused buyers seeking certified organic feed and clear pasture-raising practices. |
| Tamarack Valley Farms – Premium Gourmet Garlic from Wisconsin | Those seeking a diversified family farm with a strong commitment to pesticide-free food and additional farm services. |
| All Grass Farms | Buyers wanting certified organic, corn and soy-free feed options with a strong pasture-forage diet. |
| Bryant Family Farms | Foodies and chefs seeking specialty breeds like French Label Rouge and unique poultry varieties. |
| May Hill Farm | Convenience shoppers who want a variety of pasture-raised meats and clear online ordering. |
The Farms, Up Close
#1 Farm Sweet Farm
A screenshot of the Farm Sweet Farm website.
Farm Sweet Farm, located in Cadott, Wisconsin, is a dedicated pastured poultry operation that raises chickens outdoors on green pastures from June through September. They start with day-old chicks and move them to portable pens after two weeks, ensuring constant access to fresh vegetation. Their birds are fed a certified organic mix of corn, roasted soybean, and wheat, and are processed in late August and September. You'll notice their meat is lean, tender, and flavorful, with higher Omega-3s and lower Omega-6s than commercial poultry. They emphasize the health benefits of pastured poultry, making them a solid choice for health-conscious consumers. Their website clearly explains their why, so you know exactly what you're getting.
#2 Tamarack Valley Farms – Premium Gourmet Garlic from Wisconsin
A screenshot of the Tamarack Valley Farms website.
Tamarack Valley Farms, nestled in Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, is a family-run farm that's expanding beyond its renowned gourmet garlic to include pastured poultry. Jason and Molly Hovell promise food grown without chemical pesticides or herbicides, and they're committed to innovative, sustainable agriculture. Their pastured poultry is raised with the same care and tradition as their garlic, and they also offer trail mowing, hunting blinds, and farm consulting services. This diversification makes them a unique one-stop shop for both food and farm services. If you value a farm that's deeply rooted in the land—six generations strong—and is evolving to meet modern needs, Tamarack Valley Farms is worth watching. They're just a few miles from the Mississippi River, in the heart of Wisconsin's driftless area.
#3 All Grass Farms
A screenshot of the All Grass Farms website.
All Grass Farms raises their chickens outdoors on pasture, supplementing their diet with a locally-grown, certified-organic, corn and soy-free, non-GMO feed mix from Cashton Farm Supply. They estimate that 20-30% of their birds' diet comes from pasture forage like bluegrass, timothy, fescue, white clover, and alfalfa, plus insects and seeds. This approach ensures a diverse diet that contributes to the rich flavor of their meat. They offer a variety of packs, including a 25 lb Farm Variety Pack and whole chickens in 6-packs, with options for soy/corn-free feed. Their commitment to organic, non-GMO feed is a standout for those with specific dietary preferences. You can order directly from their online shop, making it convenient to get high-quality pastured chicken delivered.
#4 Bryant Family Farms
A screenshot of the Bryant Family Farms website.
Bryant Family Farms, located near Mineral Point in southwest Wisconsin, is a premier pastured poultry farm known for specializing in French Label Rouge birds—a slower-growing, thicker-skinned, and more flavorful breed. Founded by Nico Bryant in 2012, the farm has grown from a small operation to a recognized leader in sustainable poultry. They raise their birds on nutrient-dense forage and also offer French Guinea Fowl, Grimaud Duck, Muscovy, and Nicolas 500 turkeys. Their story is one of dedication and growth, and they've received grants to improve their infrastructure. If you're looking for unique, heritage-style poultry with exceptional flavor, Bryant Family Farms is a top contender. They also offer CSA memberships and wholesale options, making them accessible to a wide range of customers.
#5 May Hill Farm
A screenshot of the May Hill Farm website.
May Hill Farm offers pasture-raised chicken that's raised outdoors starting at 3-4 weeks old, with daily moves to fresh grass for foraging. Their birds are fed a non-GMO diet and are completely free from antibiotics, artificial hormones, steroids, MSG, and nitrates. They emphasize superior flavor and texture, perfect for roasting, grilling, or smoking. The farm provides a clear fulfillment schedule and free shipping on orders over $200, making it easy to plan your purchase. They also offer a range of other products like beef, pork, and eggs, so you can source multiple items from one place. If you're looking for a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to pastured poultry with a focus on clean ingredients, May Hill Farm is a reliable choice.
How to Choose the Right Pastured Poultry Farm for You
When picking a pastured poultry farm, start by considering what matters most to you—whether it's organic feed, specific breeds, or a farm that offers additional products. Look for transparency in their raising practices: do they move their birds regularly? What do they feed them? Also, think about convenience: do they offer online ordering, delivery, or local pickup? Finally, consider the farm's overall philosophy and whether it aligns with your values, such as sustainability and community involvement. By weighing these factors, you'll find the farm that best fits your needs.
Streamlining Your Farm-Fresh Poultry Purchase
To make the process even easier, you can set up automated reminders for when each farm opens its ordering window. Many of these farms have seasonal availability, so you'll want to plan ahead. You can also use online marketplaces or farm directories to compare options and place orders in one go. Some farms offer subscription services or CSA memberships, which can automate your poultry supply. By using these tools, you can ensure a steady flow of high-quality, pasture-raised chicken without the hassle.
The Takeaway: Wisconsin's Pastured Poultry Scene Is Thriving
Wisconsin's pastured poultry farms are as diverse as the landscape itself, each offering a unique take on raising birds the right way. Whether you prioritize organic feed, specialty breeds, or a farm that wears many hats, there's a farm here for you. Tamarack Valley Farms, with its deep roots and expanding offerings, is a prime example of how tradition and innovation can go hand in hand. So, take a look, reach out to these farmers, and taste the difference that true pasture-raising makes. Your family—and the land—will thank you.