About Us
Our History
Steve grew up on a dairy farm and between us we have raised horses, dairy goats, chickens, turkeys, emus and show dogs. One day Steve noticed someone selling Scottish Highlands, an unusual breed of cattle. The more we researched the breed the more we liked them. We decided purchasing one or two Highlands was a good idea. Well, obviously Highlands are like potato chips, you can't have just one or two. We now average over fifty head in our Scottish Highland fold.
The Scottish Highland Breed
A group of Highlands is called a "fold" not a herd. This breed is very docile, intelligent, excellent foragers and are recognizable by their horns and long hairy coat. Because of their coat they do very well in the Iowa winters only needing protection from the winter winds. It has been noticed that Highlands do not increase their feed intake until the temperature drops to -18 degrees F, other breeds increase their intake at 32 degrees F. In the hot weather they need shade and appreciate a stream or pond to cool off. Highlands have a great longevity, they've been known to calve at 20 years. Because our cattle are not treated with hormones or an antibiotic regimen this grass fed and grass finished beef is a much healthier meat. A study conducted by the Scottish Agricultural College showed that Highland beef is significantly (about 40%) lower in fat and cholesterol. It contains more protein and iron than other beefs.
And Now...
This photo is of a lovely young lady that wanted to have her senior pictures taken with our Highlands. She is crazy about Scottish Highlands and we were happy to accommodate her request.
Due to the popularity of our meat, we are not at the Farmers Markets. If you'd like to purchase some good for you and tasty beef you can contact me via email me at highlandsofdecorah@gmail.com. We are currently taking orders for beef halves.
In addition to our Highlands, we also raise miniature horses and have foals for sale. Email me for more info.