Our Story

Our Story

Daniel and I grew up city kids. We became fascinated with farm life while living abroad in Brazil for Daniel’s work. While most of his co-workers in Brazil would head to the beach on the weekends, we found ourselves venturing inland, marveling at the country’s productive farming community.

One day, while visiting a cattle ranch in central Brazil, we ran into something that shocked us. As the experienced rancher talked about his impressive cattle operation, Daniel couldn’t stop looking at the man’s pigs. They weren’t locked up in stalls. Rather, they were out to pasture munching on grass side by side with the cows. They also enjoyed perusing fallen fruit from a smattering of mango, guava, cashew, and star fruit trees that dotted the farm.

From that point on all we could think about was raising pigs and cattle on pasture. So after four years in Brazil, we came back to the states, bought land and Ballerina Farm was born.

About the Animals

About the Animals

Ballerina Farm proudly raises Berkshire pigs and Angus cattle.

The Pigs

Berkshire pigs are a rare heritage breed bred for specialty pork. With smaller litters and longer growing time needed before harvest, they aren’t used in mass production factory farms. Higher pH levels in their meat contribute to its famed juiciness, flavor, tenderness and marbling. Sought out by chefs and pork connoisseurs, no breed can match its meat quality. Berkshires are famous in Japan where they are known as Kurobuta, the Kobe beef of pork. Heat is a problem for pigs, one of the reasons they thrive in our high altitude pastures of cool summers and snowy winters. Full access to fresh air and plenty of space keeps the herd healthy and growing. We also have a select handful of farms that can supply us if demand peaks.

The Cattle

Our cattle are a hearty and cold tolerant bunch. A healthy assortment of Angus, Hereford, Charolais and other top-notch breeds, we focus our cattle program on behavior, vigor and marbling. We also have a select handful of farms that can supply us if demand peaks.

The Farmers

Ballerina Farm is nestled in the fertile mountain valley of Kamas, Utah. Blessed with cool summers and snowy winters, livestock and humans alike enjoy this high altitude oasis. Hannah is a former Miss New York City and graduate of the Juilliard School in dance. Daniel has a BA in history and a masters in business. The children are wild, hardworking and the best of friends.