One of the key attractions of our Certified Regenerative by AGW program is its practical…
First Principles
Jerry Kitt (above right, with his family) owns First Nature Farms, a 3,000-acre certified organic farm in Goodfare, Alberta. First Nature Farms raises AGW-certified pasture-raised Berkshire pigs and cattle.
How did you get into farming?
Quite by accident—while hitchhiking! Raised in Edmonton with a love for the outdoors, I hitched a ride to Alaska and was picked up by a long-lost cousin who had just bought land in Goodfare. He eventually settled there, and I followed, working at a research station before diving into farming—and straight into poverty! My love of nature led me to organic farming and a holistic management course gave me focus. That was 30 years ago. Today, I farm alongside my son, Donovan, his wife, Lisa, who manage The Homestead (also AGW-certified) on the same land as First Nature Farms.
Describe a typical day
Morning chores are the only consistent part! There’s always something happening. The grizzly bear that came by, for example. I stood on the deck playing accordion to it—I don’t think he’ll be coming back.
How did you hear about AGW?
From TK Ranch in Alberta. They were the first Certified Grassfed by AGW farm in Canada. We were looking for similar recognition and the logo on our packaging is a key benefit!
Sustainable farming: why does it matter?
We feel a great responsibility to our part of the planet. We also want to nourish our customers as well as we can. We need more farmers who are gentle to the Earth.
Who are your customers?
In Alberta, families in the Grande Prairie area and shoppers who visit the stores we supply with our pork in Vancouver, British Columbia. Our Certified Animal Welfare approved by AGW, Certified Grassfed by AGW beef is marketed through The Homestead, managed by Donovan and Lisa, and available by subscription.
What are your business plans for the future?
I want to provide a stable income for the people who work on our farm. I envision a future that is full of small, self-supporting communities.
What is the biggest threat to sustainable farming?
Big business and a changing climate.
What keeps you awake at night?
Too many finished pigs.
What single thing would most improve your life?
Rain.
What do you love most about what you do?
I can look back at my life and know it was worthwhile.
AT A GLANCE
Farm: First Nature Farms
Certification date: July 2024
Size: 3,040 acres
Soil type: Grey wooded
Altitude: 2,600 feet
Annual rainfall: 13 inches
Enterprises: 350 Berkshire pigs, 40 Galloway cows plus calves, feeders and finishers, 3 acres market garden
Originally published in the Spring 2025 issue of AGW’s Sustainable Farming magazine.
Related Posts
