Maple Heights Farm
Beef
About the Farm
The Hertel Family has been farming in North Worcester County continuously since 1899, carrying forward a legacy that spans over a century of agricultural dedication. In 2007, Andy and Kerrie Hertel purchased Maple Heights Farm, which was originally established in 1881, as part of a preservation project with the town of Westminster and the state of Massachusetts. This acquisition marked the beginning of their commitment to raising the best grass-fed beef in their area, and by 2011, they achieved USDA organic certification.
At Maple Heights Farm, the Hertels' mission centers on providing consumers with nutritionally dense and authentic products while working in harmony with nature by respecting the biological life-cycle systems of flora and fauna on their farm. Their approach emphasizes balance and sustainability, with their small herd of 40 cattle thriving without the need for medications, antibiotics, or medicated feed. The animals convert grasses, nuts, roots and bugs into natural fertilizers, while the farm uses only the highest quality inputs when needed, consisting primarily of extra manure, wood ash, and lime from USDA approved sources.
The farm expanded its operations in 2016 with the purchase of the family homestead, Sunny Hill Farm, bringing their total hay and pasture acreage to over 100 acres. Their commitment to organic farming extends beyond their own property, as they maintain a goal to add one local field per year to their Organic Plan, ensuring that additional acreage is cared for without pesticides, herbicides, and poor management practices. Currently, they manage 15 acres off-farm that are included in their organic plan, demonstrating their dedication to environmental stewardship and community agricultural preservation.
The Hertel Family has been farming in North Worcester County continuously since 1899, carrying forward a legacy that spans over a century of agricultural dedication. In 2007, Andy and Kerrie Hertel purchased Maple Heights Farm, which was originally established in 1881, as part of a preservation project with the town of Westminster and the state of Massachusetts. This acquisition marked the beginning of their commitment to raising the best grass-fed beef in their area, and by 2011, they achieved USDA organic certification.
At Maple Heights Farm, the Hertels' mission centers on providing consumers with nutritionally dense and authentic products while working in harmony with nature by respecting the biological life-cycle systems of flora and fauna on their farm. Their approach emphasizes balance and sustainability, with their small herd of 40 cattle thriving without the need for medications, antibiotics, or medicated feed. The animals convert grasses, nuts, roots and bugs into natural fertilizers, while the farm uses only the highest quality inputs when needed, consisting primarily of extra manure, wood ash, and lime from USDA approved sources.
The farm expanded its operations in 2016 with the purchase of the family homestead, Sunny Hill Farm, bringing their total hay and pasture acreage to over 100 acres. Their commitment to organic farming extends beyond their own property, as they maintain a goal to add one local field per year to their Organic Plan, ensuring that additional acreage is cared for without pesticides, herbicides, and poor management practices. Currently, they manage 15 acres off-farm that are included in their organic plan, demonstrating their dedication to environmental stewardship and community agricultural preservation.
Type of Foods Inside
Meat
- 100% Grass Fed Beef
Pantry/Other
- Hay
Meat
- 100% Grass Fed Beef
Pantry/Other
- Hay
Photo gallery
Contact Details
Products
Producers
