Local farm co-op makes agriculture more accessible
On the outskirts of Carthage, Byrd Family Farm sits on 42 acres, where cattle and hogs roam, crops grow in the fields, and work to build a more sustainable local food system is underway.
For American Regeneration Farmers Cooperative President Tom Byrd and Secretary Richie McDonald, the farm is a working example of what they hope to accomplish throughout the Sandhills: a cooperative model that helps small farmers overcome the financial and practical challenges of agriculture while giving consumers more access to locally raised food.
“Cooperate, don’t compete,” said Byrd, who was smiling as he walked the farm. “Back in the day, Earl Butz with the USDA had this saying about farming: ‘Get big or get out.’ We don’t believe that.”
Currently, the organization is working to establish an indoor market along N.C. 211 in West End. If approved, the market could be ready by early spring 2027. Plans include space for local farmers to sell their products, a bakery, and areas for community meetings.
Byrd says the goal of this project is to bring local agricultural providers together under one roof and give them access to a shared marketplace and resources while also encouraging more people to raise livestock and grow food.
Building a Farm from the Ground Up
Byrd Family Farm covers 42 acres, with approximately 20 acres dedicated to growing crops. The farm also raises Black Angus cattle and about 30 Chester White hogs.
The operation follows organic growing and feeding practices, according to Byrd and McDonald.
Byrd grew up farming in Indiana, where he learned traditional agricultural practices from his family. After spending much of his career in business, he eventually returned to his agricultural roots.
He and his wife discovered the property by chance while looking for a place in the country.
“We wanted to get away from the craziness of the city and come back to our roots,” explained Byrd. We were driving and saw this handmade sign that said ‘farm for sale,’ and here we are.”
McDonald, meanwhile, came to farming from a very different background.
The two met through their church, where conversations eventually led to McDonald becoming involved in the operation. With a background and passion for business and culinary work, he never expected to find himself working with livestock and crops.