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The North Outback
2007-11-04
Story by Jo A. Gast
“Calves” photo by Chuck Haney
Janet and Terry Jacobson are living proof that sustainable agriculture can sustain the family farm. The Jacobson’s farm organically near Wales, North Dakota, a small community 15 miles south of the Canadian border. They raise a variety of grains, range-fed beef, and sheep, which furnish wool and lambs for nearby markets. This kind of diversified farming operation provides their family with both an income and the quality of life they highly value.
The Jacobson’s believe their way of farming improves food quality and human health while protecting the environment on which we all must depend. They also de their best to create an environmentally-friendly, sustainable household, growing their own vegetables, raising the meat they eat, and using a wood stove to lessen their dependence on fuel oil.
“We keep looking for ways to embody our values in our daily lives,” says Terry.
