Alexandre Family Farm has become the first Regenerative Organic Certified dairy farm in the U.S., certified by the Regenerative Organic Alliance. In addition, it is also the first dairy to obtain the Ecological Outcome Verification certification by the Savory Institute. These certifications acknowledge that the farm's practices continuously improve soil biology as well as the entire ecosystem – water, land, air, and animals.
"When we began farming this way 30 years ago, we weren't intentionally trying to have an impact on climate change," said founder Blake Alexandre, in a statement. "We were focused on the health of the soil and manage our pasture by having our animals graze our land. When you increase organic matter in soil, you also capture carbon. We soon came to realize that healthy soil not only has positive effects on our pasture, our cows and their milk, but it has a profound effect on our planet as well. Over the years, we've become increasingly proud of producing food that's not only good for your body but good for the earth."
"Dairies face unique challenges to earning a certification as rigorous as ROC. The Alexandres' achievement of this high-bar seal is a true testament to their commitment to ecological, humane and ethical practices across the board," says Elizabeth Whitlow, executive director of the ROA, in a statement.
"We strongly believe that regeneration must be measured. By using empirical data, the Alexandres show foresight and initiative in managing land with an ecological approach," says David Rizzo, COO of The Savory Institute’s Land to Market program, in a statement. "This is a major step forward for dairy, and we are excited to see these verified products in the marketplace that meet the consumer's desire to know their purchase is supporting the shift to regenerative agriculture."
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Image: Alexandre Family Farm