The science of pasture-raised livestock and produce.
Healthy food, healthy living.
"Nature's a lot better at inventing wonders than we are."
David Attenborough
The Objective
Sustainable food and living independence that everybody can afford. Allowing for Nature to do what it does best.
About David and Laura
We are a family homestead of Science professionals who made a life out of becoming more and more self reliant, and less governed by “ civilization ” dependent living. Laura with her PHDs in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry is truly the life sciences expert here on the Haystead. Along with her years of diving as a citified Dive Master in the family dive operation . David spent 26 years as a professional underwater diving instructor CD and 15 years owning his own dive school and shop. Specializing in the science of diving, and dive research training. David is back in school part time, finishing up his certifications in Astronomy and Astrophysics. Truly a science power couple here on the Haystead covering the bottom of the oceans to the stars and all life in-between.
The Plan
Growing our own food was just the first step. We focused on following Earth science, pasture raising , seasonal growing and old time independent homesteading as a way of life. Before we knew it, it took over us compleatly and became simply who we are. In 2018 we took a chance and started looking at different homesteading philosophies, but none seemed to be a good fit for us. We wanted self reliance and less government control but not total self exile. And we are students of the natural world and the laws that govern her. So, we made our own “Homestead Ideal” Blending both science and nature, and with that, the Haystead Project was born.
At one time, we didn’t know how our food got on our plate just, took it for granted and trusted others to provide us with nutrient dense healthy foods. Wow, where we wrong! So, first step was to take a hard scientific look at what we called “food”. This started a research project, that is still ongoing right now and boy, what we consume as Americans is frightening.
For one thing, we learned the importance of letting food ripen on the plant, not in a refrigeration car or warehouse or with chemicals. Instead, the way nature intended according to its needs and timing. Sun, clean water and fresh air is critical for the health of all living things. Truly ‘old school’. Fresh, living, natural farm food that we can grow well in Virginia. Without having to go to a store and paying for something artificial, expensive and with an unknown history.
Our goal was to find a better, healthier way of life, but also a better tasting, a way to also enjoy what we eat. Without going broke doing it. Or “buying“ into dishonest promises of “All Natural” and “government food security” or fake quality.
In 2018 we purchased the land out here in beautiful Buckingham county and the Haystead Ranch Project came to life. Our mission is a common sense approach to local family, Sustainable, scientifically defendable, ethical land practices. Independence, self sufficient living while contributing to the community with Farm Gleaning projects and farm food for market boxes.
When you support or buy from us you are helping the land and the community in multiple ways.
Our Conclusions
What we discovered during this process is that a growing number of people are concerned with how their food is raised, and what they are feeding their families. While at the same time feel powerless or confused about making that happen. We began to share our story, and the response has been inspiring. It is shocking when you discover just how good food is supposed to taste, the way nature intended it. Also, we do not have to abuse sickly animals or “strip” the land to feed our families. We can have love and respect without compromising. You CAN obey nature and our physiological needs, without cruelty. Everything in its right time and season. We are now going on six years in and still going strong!
If interested in knowing more, please do not hesitate to reach out!
Thank you for your support
"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better." — Albert Einstein
The Legend of the Hay Clan
The origins of the mighty Hay Clan high protectors of Scotland
The legendary origin of the Hays is the stuff of fairy tales. In the year 971, Scotland was subjected to attack from Viking marauders who had crossed the North Sea and proceeded up the Tay estuary to Perth. King Kenneth II, resident at Scone, attempted to repel them, but his army was routed in an engagement at Luncarty, north of Perth. A farmer and his two sons, ploughing in a nearby field, had watched the proceedings, and these three men, all of huge physical stature, removed the yokes from their oxen and used them to bar the way of the fleeing Scots soldiery. The peasant and his sons rallied the fleeing troops and led them back to victory, driving the Danes into the Firth of Tay.
The Hay Clan became the official body guards and was always at the side of Robert the Bruce and helped establish him on the throne. Bruce gifted the lands of Slains in Aberdeenshire to Sir Gilbert Hay together with the office of High Constable in recognition of his services. Sir Gilbert was one of the barons who signed the famous Declaration of Independence at Arbroath in 1320.
Serva jugum A Hay! A Hay! A Hay!
