USA – Diestel Family Ranch, a renowned family-owned producer of sustainably raised turkeys in the United States, has become the first turkey producer to obtain the prestigious Regenified certification.
The Regenified seal, which has been recognized and accepted by the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Services (FSIS) for both single and multi-ingredient products, positions Diestel at the forefront of sustainable turkey farming. This certification aligns with Diestel’s commitment to advancing eco-friendly practices, further reinforcing its reputation as a leader in the poultry industry.
Diestel Family Ranch, founded in 1949 by Jack Diestel, has long prioritized sustainable farming and the health of its turkeys. The farm was among the pioneers of organic poultry farming, incorporating such practices as early as 1999. This recent certification underlines its continued dedication to ecological stewardship and responsible farming.
To achieve the Regenified certification, Diestel met the stringent 6-3-4 Standards set by Regenified, which encompass soil health, adaptive stewardship, and ecosystem processes. These standards are designed to improve biodiversity, soil health, water quality, and nutrient density, making them a comprehensive framework for regenerative agriculture.
Regenified’s certification process is recognized as a leading third-party program in the industry, ensuring that certified producers adhere to high standards of regenerative farming practices. Diestel’s certification is a testament to its compliance with these rigorous criteria, marking a significant step in its sustainability journey.
“Every aspect of being a farmer impacts the world around us, and feed is a critical part of raising poultry. If we ignore the animals’ feed sources, then we can’t solve for the future,” Heidi Diestel, a fourth-generation farmer at the ranch, emphasized the importance of feed in sustainable poultry farming.
“Addressing how the feed is being grown will bring the entire system closer to a regenerative state that supports the future of farming and our planet. We want to support the next generation now because their future depends on it, both ours and yours.”
Earlier this spring, Diestel sourced over 650 tons of Certified Regenified corn, a significant milestone in its regenerative farming efforts. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to replace half of the farm’s feed with Certified Regenified corn by 2035. This corn is cultivated by local U.S. farmers following regenerative practices, contributing to soil health and sustainability. By sourcing feed that aligns with regenerative principles, Diestel ensures that its farming practices are in harmony with ecological sustainability.
Regenerative practices at Diestel Family Ranch
Diestel’s approach to regenerative agriculture involves several key practices aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability and animal welfare.
The foundation of Diestel’s regenerative efforts is the use of Certified Regenified feed, which promotes soil health and biodiversity. The farm sources corn grown using regenerative methods, fostering soil fertility and reducing the need for chemical inputs. This feed is integral to maintaining a healthy ecosystem for both the turkeys and the surrounding environment.
Recognizing the natural behavior of turkeys, Diestel provides an environment that mimics their preferred habitats. The farm has planted over two miles of evergreen trees, perennial shrubs, grasses, and flowering trees to create a biodiverse landscape.
This initiative not only offers a natural setting for the turkeys but also promotes biodiversity, attracts beneficial insects, and enhances water quality. By replicating the turkeys’ natural habitat, Diestel supports the well-being of its birds while contributing to ecosystem restoration.
The ranch converts its organic waste into nutrient-dense compost, producing approximately 6,350 tons annually. This practice diverts over 2,117 tons of waste from landfills each year, contributing to environmental sustainability.
The compost is rich in nutrients and supports a diverse microbial ecosystem, fostering healthy soil and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. By closing the loop on organic waste, Diestel enhances soil health and promotes sustainable agriculture.
Instead of relying on traditional chemicals, Diestel employs probiotics to maintain bird health. These beneficial microorganisms improve the turkeys’ digestive systems and eliminate the need for chlorine and other chemical treatments.
This approach not only enhances the health of the turkeys but also supports a healthy ecosystem on the farm. By prioritizing natural solutions, Diestel reduces its environmental footprint and aligns with regenerative farming principles.
Industry recognition and impact
Salar Shemirani, CEO of Regenified, praised Diestel’s efforts, stating, “Diestel is leading the industry into the future. Their commitment to regenerative agriculture extends beyond the farm and the environment, positively impacting the entire supply chain through off-farm purchases of regenerative feed.”
For 75 years, the Diestel family has remained committed to holistic agricultural practices that prioritize animal welfare and environmental stewardship. The Regenified certification serves as a recognition of the distinctive approach that sets Diestel turkeys apart from mass-produced poultry products.
“Regenified certification is an important recognition of what has always differentiated Diestel turkeys from mass-produced poultry products. We lead with the strictest animal welfare and environmental standards to produce the leanest, cleanest, and most delicious birds,” said Heidi Diestel.
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