Fifth-Generation Farmer Revives a Family Tradition
.jpeg)
Fifth-Generation Farmer Revives a Family Tradition
Larry Banowetz has raised pigs on his family farm in eastern Iowa for 45 years. But the hog industry, or pork industry as it’s now referred to as, has changed dramatically over that time. Larry says that in the United States, it is almost impossible to have a profitable small business as an independent pork producer.
“On the commercial market, you just kept losing outlets to sell your pigs,” says Larry. “In the last 10 or 15 years, the number of outlets for the commercial producer to sell their pigs dramatically dropped. [Until] it was basically just Tyson.”
Yet Larry’s son Caleb has always had an interest in raising pigs. In 2018, Caleb took over the family’s hog farming work, becoming a fifth-generation Banowetz farmer as a junior in high school. He remembers facing the same hurdles his father warned him about.
“The market selling commercially small-scale was really bad economically for me,” says Caleb. “It was tough to find buying stations…So you would drive an hour and a half away, and the price was just terrible. I was losing money each year. I don’t know how many more years I could have kept going backwards on my money, trying to make it work.”
“Sometimes you get funny looks. ‘Oh my gosh, you’re raising pigs outside. What are you doing?’” says Caleb.
Raising pigs outdoors requires less equipment and lower input costs, Caleb explains, but also more labor. He prefers putting in the extra work to see his pigs outside. Unfortunately, after his first couple of years pig farming, Caleb hadn’t been able to show bankers he could profitably raise his animals on a small scale outdoors. Some refused to continue lending him money.
Then, in 2021, one of Caleb’s college professors introduced him to Niman Ranch, a network of more than 600 small to mid-sized, independent U.S. family farmers and ranchers who uphold high standards of sustainable and humane farming practices. In exchange, they access a stable, premium market for their hogs.
Caleb was immediately drawn to the opportunity. Larry was supportive, but he remembers finding the concept hard to believe: “I was like, how’s this going to work out?”
Niman Ranch farmers raise pigs outdoors with deep bedding—the way the Banowetz family has always done—but they are also antibiotic-free. Transitioning away from antibiotics was a leap of faith for the family, Larry admits, and both he and Caleb were surprised by the result.
“I was around pigs for 45 years until he brought this Niman,” says Larry. “With antibiotic-free…you worry about death and loss. I have been amazed at how healthy [the pigs] are and how they’ve done…it’s really worked out well for Caleb.” They focus on raising their pigs in low stress environments and boosting the pigs’ immune systems naturally.
“Niman Ranch helps the farmer out by putting money in their pocket to help expand, whereas in the commercial market, you’re out there on your own. There’s nobody to help you,” says Caleb, who received scholarships from the Niman Ranch Next Generation Foundation to pay his way through college as well as grants to get his operation off the ground.
Caleb is now expanding his farm to raise about 2,000 pigs. He can now show bankers a “flat line of income,” as opposed to the ups and downs typical of the commercial market. He recently purchased his own farm and plans to use his pig manure to fertilize crop fields and
build soil health.
Caleb and Larry hope to give the next generation an easier entry into farming, should they choose to continue the family legacy.
“You’re going to have a positive financial outcome here. That’s a big deal to provide some stability; it helps bring the younger generation back,” says Larry. “I wish I would have known about it, honestly. I would have been raising pigs for Niman Ranch for 20-plus years now, had I known.”
Comments
You must be logged in to comment.
Latest Articals
-
Telephone Triage Remote Services | 24/7 Patient-Centered Virtual Care
Introduction to Telephone Triage Remote ServicesIn today’s healthcare environment, patients expect timely guidance and reliable medical support—even outside of office hours. This is where Telephone Triage Remote Services play a vital role. By connecting patients with trained triage nurses through secure telecommunication channels, healthcare providers can ensure accurate medical assessment, efficient call management, and improved patient satisfaction.With the rise of telemedicine, virtual healthcare assistants, and remote nursing, telephone triage has become a critical extension of modern medical practices. It reduces administrative burden, supports physicians, and ensures patients receive the right level of care at the right time.At Care VMA Health, we specialize in providing highly skilled remote triage services tailored to hospitals, clinics, and private practices across the United States.What Are Telephone Triage Remote Services?Telephone triage is a process where registered nurses or trained medical assistants assess a patient’s symptoms remotely via phone or digital platforms. Instead of rushing to...
-
How to Choose the Best Corporate Event Management in Dubai
Organizing a corporate event requires precision, creativity, and professional support. Whether you are hosting a product launch, seminar, conference, or team-building activity, every detail matters. Effective corporate events leave a strong impression on attendees and elevate your company’s reputation.The Role of Professional Event ManagementCollaborating with a corporate event management Dubai service ensures your event is planned and executed seamlessly. Professional agencies handle venue selection, vendor coordination, budgeting, and on-site management, allowing you to focus on business objectives and networking.Key Services Provided by Event AgenciesCorporate event management agencies in Dubai offer comprehensive services tailored to different business needs:1. Event Planning and Concept DesignAgencies help define your event’s goals, theme, and program schedule. They create detailed timelines to ensure that every aspect is accounted for and executed efficiently.2. Venue SelectionChoosing the right venue is crucial for the success of your event. Agencies recommend spaces suitable for conferences, workshops, and corporate gatherings, including...
-
Opening a Bank Account in Dubai for Foreigners and Navigating the Company Registration Process in UAE
Dubai has established itself as one of the most dynamic global business destinations, attracting investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals from every corner of the world. With its favorable tax policies, strategic geographic location, and strong financial infrastructure, it provides the perfect environment for both individuals and companies seeking to expand their horizons. Two essential steps for anyone entering this market are opening a bank account in dubai for foreigners and understanding the company registration process in uae. Together, they form the foundation for a secure and successful business journey.Why Banking Access Matters for Foreigners in DubaiFor expatriates and international investors, access to reliable banking services is crucial. A well-structured banking system not only offers personal convenience but also ensures business operations can run smoothly. With a bank account, foreign investors can carry out essential transactions, receive payments, and manage finances seamlessly across borders.Dubai banks are known for their efficiency, global accessibility,...
-
Dry Needling: A Complete Guide to Pain Relief and Recovery at Flexology Studios
When pain, muscle tightness, or restricted mobility interferes with your daily life, finding an effective and long-lasting solution becomes a top priority. At Flexology Studios, we believe in combining science-backed techniques with personalized care to help our clients achieve optimal results. One of the most powerful therapies we offer is Dry Needling, a safe and effective treatment designed to target pain at its root, restore function, and improve overall quality of life.In this blog, we’ll explore what Dry Needling is, how it works, its benefits, and why it’s an integral part of the healing journey at Flexology Studios.What is Dry Needling?Dry Needling is a therapeutic technique used by trained professionals to treat muscle pain, trigger points, and movement impairments. It involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific areas of muscle tissue known as "trigger points" or "knots." These points are often responsible for pain, stiffness, and restricted movement.Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional...
-
Business Consultancy: Driving Growth and Success with Web On Wings
In today’s competitive world, running a successful business requires more than just a great product or service. It demands clear strategy, smart planning, and expert guidance to stay ahead of the curve. This is where Business Consultancy comes into play. At Web On Wings, we specialize in providing businesses with tailored consultancy services that unlock their true potential. Whether you are a startup, a growing company, or an established enterprise, our consultancy expertise can help you streamline processes, reduce risks, and achieve sustainable growth.What is Business Consultancy?Business Consultancy is a professional service that helps organizations improve performance, solve challenges, and identify new opportunities. Consultants analyze a business from different angles—operations, marketing, finance, technology, and management—to provide solutions that maximize efficiency and profitability.At Web On Wings, we believe that consultancy is not about giving generic advice. It’s about delivering practical, actionable strategies that fit the unique needs of every business.Why Do Businesses Need Consultancy?Many businesses struggle with...
-
Same Day Flower Delivery in Faisalabad – Bouquets & Gifts for Every Occasion
Flowers have always been more than just beautiful decorations. They are timeless gifts that express love, care, and appreciation without the need for words. From birthdays and anniversaries to graduations and weddings, flowers play a central role in life’s celebrations. In Faisalabad, a city filled with cultural vibrance and modern living, flowers have become the go-to choice for both traditional and contemporary gifting.With the growing demand for convenience, people no longer want to wait days for deliveries. Whether it’s a planned surprise or a last-minute gesture, the need for quick, fresh, and reliable service is stronger than ever. That is why many locals turn to Same day flower delivery Faisalabad, which ensures that emotions are delivered right on time. This service has changed the way people celebrate special occasions by combining freshness, reliability, and style.Why Choose Same Day Flower Delivery?Life often moves fast, and celebrations don’t always come with long...