Gryffon's Aerie

Located at the base of the Shenandoah National Park in Albemarle County, Gryffon's Aerie is owned by Natural Retreats and operated by Collins and Ramona Huff along with their two children. Over the years, they have diligently bred one of the largest purebred American Milking Devon herds in the United States, recognized for superior genetics in grass-finished beef. The farm supplies several other pork producers with young pigs for their natural programs.

The farm raises cattle on lush pastures from birth to finish without the use of hormones, unnecessary antibiotics, or grain containing animal by-products. Herbicides and pesticides are not used on the pastures. Cattle are rotated daily to new pastures and followed by other livestock to enhance soil health. In winter, cattle graze on stockpiled cool-season grasses and legumes in alpine meadows. Tamworth pigs, known as 'Irish grazers,' forage for high-quality grasses, nuts, and berries, and are never fitted with rings in their snouts. The animals are never separated from their mothers, allowing for natural weaning, which is believed to result in healthier and happier livestock. All meat is processed at USDA facilities that adhere to strict humane slaughtering guidelines.

The farm utilizes every part of the animal, with bones used for stocks and demi-glace, hides tanned, and wool spun into yarns. This holistic approach aligns with the mission of the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy to protect the genetic diversity and integrity of heritage livestock. The Tamworth pigs are known for their friendly and intelligent nature, often delighting in belly rubs and being considered the 'personalities of the barnyard.'