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ISDA Recognizes Johnson Co. Livestock Farmer For Excellence In Progressive Farm Practices

Last updated on Tuesday, June 16, 2015

(INDIANAPOLIS) - The Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) recognized Doug Abney and family, Johnson County livestock producers and owner-operators of Red Barn Farms in Bargersville, who recently completed the voluntary ISDA Certified Livestock Producer Program for their commitment to excellence in their farm management practices.

"We are extremely proud of these livestock producers who spend the time to make their farms safer for their animals, families and communities," said ISDA Director Ted McKinney. "Doug and his family have been great advocates of the Certified Livestock Producer Program and is representative of the caliber of producers in this program."

The Abney family primarily focuses their farming operations on raising Belted Galloway beef cattle, in addition to a few pigs, lambs and goats for meat and chickens for fresh eggs. They sell their livestock to their daughter's business, Red Barn Meats LLC., which after being processed at a USDA inspected facility, sells the individually packaged and labeled frozen meats directly to the public at several farmers markets and local orchards. All three Abney children are involved in the operation.

To be recognized by ISDA as a Certified Livestock Producer, participants must complete the highest industry standards in environmental protection, animal health, bio-security, emergency planning and good neighbor relations. They also agree to sign the Producer Promise, committing to meet or exceed the high standards of the Certified Livestock Producer Program as a commitment to the citizens of the State of Indiana.

ISDA launched the Certified Livestock Producer Program in July 2008. Since that time, 106 Hoosier farmers have earned the certification. Producers and others interested in learning more about the Certified Livestock Producer Program should contact ISDA Livestock Program Manager Kimmi Devaney at 317.450.3570 or KDevaney@isda.in.gov.

ABOUT ISDA

The Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) was established as a separate state agency by the Legislature in 2005. The Director of ISDA is appointed by the Governor and is a member of the Governor's Cabinet. Administratively, ISDA reports to Lt. Governor Sue Ellspermann, who also serves as Indiana's Secretary of Agriculture. Major responsibilities include advocacy for Indiana agriculture at the local, state and federal level, managing soil conservation programs, promoting economic development and agricultural innovation, serving as a regulatory ombudsman for agricultural businesses, and licensing grain firms throughout the state.

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