The use of synthetic and/or any highly-concentrated pesticides, fertilizers, specific biocides and similar substances is  prohibited (one-time applications for extreme cases will be considered).  Soil & food product samples are taken at least once a year on each farm and tested for agricultural chemical residues.

Real Farms use natural methods to restore the fertility of the land, and thus ensure the nutrient value in their food.  Farmers replace and naturally manufacture the critical compounds that nourish the soil, and in turn, or bodies, every year using sustainable & regenerative practices.  This includes the quality and health effects of nonedible products.  

Every location is analyzed for according to the specific needs of each species.  Population size, space to freely roam, water access, feed quality and forage availability, handling methods, and other management aspects are all taken under consideration when evaluating each site. In general, we include the systems that best mimic the animal's 'wild' conditions and allow for it's natural behaviors, resulting in happier and healthier animals. 

We recognize that it is impossible for many real  farmers to source all their inputs locally for a variety of reasons, but we look for producers that utilize local sources to the best of their abilities, and use methods that minimize fossil-fuel consumption and soil compaction as much as possible.  We will be providing assistance to potential producers who desire to transition to more local sources & sustainable methods, but lack the financial means or technical expertise to do so.

The farmers we work with are highly intelligent, extremely hard working people.  But in order to support even one farm, we need each farmer to do his or her fair share as well.  Real farming is one of the last remaining truly grass-roots movements, and a spirit of passion, humility and perseverance will be needed in the all facets of the relationship between RARE and the real farmers we are committed to helping.