Newman Farm

Myrtle, MO

Newman Farm, situated in the picturesque Ozarks on the border of Arkansas and Missouri, is renowned for raising the oldest genetic line of Berkshire pigs in the nation. Dr. David Newman and his wife, Kristin Newman, lead the farm's efforts in implementing protocols for pastured pig raising and preserving pure lines of heritage breeds, ensuring the well-being of their animals.

An apprenticeship at Newman Farm offers comprehensive training in livestock management, covering topics such as animal welfare practices for swine, cattle, and sheep; daily care routines including feeding, watering, and housing requirements; fundamentals of animal breeding strategies, with a focus on Berkshire hogs and cattle; insights into the science behind producing high-quality meats; and knowledge about livestock production and meat science.

Viewed from above, Newman Farm in south-central Missouri presents a scene more reminiscent of a pioneer settlement or a serene holiday camp than a typical pig farm. Rustic wooden huts dot the verdant fields like bungalows, providing a tranquil abode for the contented Berkshire pigs that graze freely. This pastoral setting stands in stark contrast to the industrialized nature of conventional pig farming.

Newman Farm embodies a nostalgic image of a bygone America, epitomizing the essence of family farming infused with humane and conscientious practices, reflecting a growing global concern for food sourcing and safety.

Dr. David Newman wears two hats as both a farmer and a scientist. With academic credentials in animal science and a Ph.D. in meat science and muscle biology, specializing in meat quality, he seamlessly integrates scientific knowledge into practical farming practices. This interdisciplinary approach enables continuous improvement in farming methods, resulting in superior products.

Berkshires, favored by British royalty since their introduction to the New World in 1823, maintain remarkably pure bloodlines and are celebrated for their exceptional pork flavor and generous fat content. Dr. Newman, with his expertise in meat studies, staunchly defends the superiority of Berkshire pigs, citing scientific evidence to support their unrivaled quality and consistency.

At Newman Farm, family is at the core of operations, with Dr. Newman, his wife Kristin, his mother Rita, and their children residing on the property. Dr. Newman's dual role as a farmer and an educator at Arkansas State University enriches his teaching with real-world experiences, offering students invaluable insights from someone deeply entrenched in the agricultural sector. As he aptly puts it, learning from someone with firsthand experience adds a unique dimension to education, embodying the essence of the American dream at its finest.