Sophie Cheney on Sustainable Agriculture at Pineland Pastures Farm

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Sophia Cheney , the dynamic force behind Pineland Pastures Farm , has a deep connection with animals that began in her childhood. Her natural affinity for them, combined with her persistence, laid the foundation for her journey into farming. The turning point came in 2020 when her husband returned from deployment, and she seized the opportunity to finally get chickens, something she had been longing for throughout their military life. This passion for chickens, initially sparked by the simple desire for fresh eggs, soon grew into a full-fledged farm.

Sophie’s love for animals and her determination transformed a small backyard chicken setup into Pineland Pastures Farm, a thriving enterprise. Starting with just a few chickens, the flock quickly expanded as she realized the therapeutic benefits they brought her.

"I had no clue the genuine effect it would have on my mental health," she said, noting that the simple act of being around her chickens provided immense comfort and peace, especially given her struggles with PTSD. The presence of the chickens offered a unique form of therapy, different from the affection of pets like dogs, but equally meaningful.

Her husband’s support played a crucial role in this transformation. Initially skeptical about farming, he eventually embraced the idea after researching and watching YouTube videos on the subject. Sophie’s vision for the farm was not just about raising chickens but creating a sustainable and regenerative agricultural model. She emphasized the importance of soil health and rotational grazing, drawing inspiration from practices at White Oak Pastures, known for their innovative approaches to sustainable farming.

Pineland Pastures Farm stands out for its commitment to quality and sustainability. Sophie is passionate about delivering fresh, nutrient-dense eggs directly to consumers, minimizing the time eggs spend in transit and storage.

"By the time you get your eggs from the grocery store, they're like almost two months old," she explained, highlighting the nutritional degradation that occurs over time. Her eggs, raised on grass and supplemented with raw milk, are a testament to her dedication to providing the best possible product.

Sophie’s vision extends beyond her farm. She advocates for empowering other small farmers, creating a network that can collectively challenge the dominance of large corporations in the food industry. "We want to bring other farmers to join us, but we don't want to take away your name. We want to teach them, empower them, and bring them out to the world," she explained. Her model contrasts sharply with that of companies like Vital Farms, aiming instead to preserve the identity and pride of individual farmers.

Her journey has not been without challenges. Moving to the farm from the city was a significant adjustment, particularly given her PTSD. The constant vigilance that city life required was exhausting, but the farm offered a haven where her heightened awareness found a productive outlet.

"I found a place where my brokenness isn't broken," she said, describing how the farm environment allowed her to use her instincts in a beneficial way.

Warrior Rising, an organization supporting veteran entrepreneurs, played a pivotal role in her journey. The community and knowledge she gained from the Warrior Rising Academy were invaluable. "Every single veteran, like we're all in competition together. But then I was like, wait, what? This isn't... Oh, I like this one. This is a good one," she recalled, appreciating the collaborative spirit and support she received.

Through Warrior Rising, Sophie found a platform that expanded her mind and passion for farming. The experience provided her with new perspectives and strategies, enhancing her ability to run and grow her business. The relationships and knowledge she gained were transformative, allowing her to take her passion to new heights.

Sophie's story is one of resilience, passion, and innovation. From a backyard chicken coop to a sustainable farm, she has built a business that reflects her values and dedication to quality. Her commitment to empowering other farmers and challenging the status quo in the food industry is a testament to her vision and leadership. As she continues to grow Pineland Pastures Farm, she remains a powerful advocate for sustainable farming practices and the empowerment of small farmers across America.

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