Joe McCartin and his wife Sally run Hathor Hill Farm in Lakeside, CT, doing everything from building fences and shelters to caring for the animals. Their farm is a regenerative operation, meaning it’s managed in a way that helps restore and improve soil health. This includes cows for mowing and fertilizing, goats to keep invasive plants under control, and chickens to rip up compost from the mushroom operation and increase soil fertility. Joe spoke to this process, noting that, “It's a bit more labor intensive than traditional farming, but hugely impactful in restoring fertility and abundance to our farmland.” He added, “Everyday, we have a real sense that we are more "partners" with our land and animals, and less "farmers" of them.”

One of the most effective "natural systems" on the farm are the Livestock Guardian Dogs - the most lovable fluff-balls with people, but loyal protectors against wildlife. Being in the rural Lichfield Hills, Hathor Hill Farm had to contend with predators like bears, bobcats, coyotes, foxes, and so on. While the farm supports natural wildlife, none dare come into the livestock areas protected by the guardians.

Joe, the Veteran, served in the Air Force designing, building and operating military command centers in Europe, and the U.S. When asked what it means to be a CT Farmer Veteran, Joe replied, “In the military, we had a mission we could be proud of, that was worthy of our best efforts. Restoring 50-acres of Connecticut farmland back to productive, healthy production is no different in my book.”

Hathor Hill produces pastured beef, chicken eggs, guinea fowl eggs, maple syrup, and specialty mushrooms (i.e. oyster, lion's mane, chestnut, etc.). Joe also added that, “As a regenerative farm, we don't use pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or any of the other things associated with industrial farming.”

Hathor Hill Farm is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 to 1:00.  During the farmers market season, you can find them at the Torrington, Bantam, Bristol, Watertown and Collinsville markets. Contact them through their website https://hathorhillfarm.com/ with any questions!