Ranch FAQ's

At Willis D Ranch we are committed to organic farming practices that are sustainable, environmentally-friendly, and compassionate to our animals. We believe that by cultivating a healthier, more natural ecosystem, we can produce high-quality beef products that are both delicious and nutritious.

Our organic farming practices involve providing our cattle with a natural and nutritious diet that is free from hormones or antibiotics. Instead, we use organic feed and allow our cattle access to clean water sources, fresh air, and ample space to roam and graze. We employ rotational grazing methods that allow us to maintain optimal soil health, reduce erosion and runoff, and support a wide range of biodiversity.

We also believe in treating our animals with the utmost respect, paying close attention to their welfare, providing them with comfortable living conditions, and avoiding practices that induce stress or cruelty. This means that all our beef is humanely raised and handled, ensuring the highest quality and most natural product from our farm.

We believe that our organic farming practices not only improve the quality and flavor of our beef, but also protects our environment and supports sustainable agriculture. We are proud to be stewards of this land, committed to producing products that are good for both people and planet.

A farm to table ranch is all about direct access to food. Unlike the big factory farms that mass produce so much of the food we eat, a farm to table ranch is about keeping things small, responsible, and efficient. The farmers are hands-on from beginning to end and have a deep commitment to raising animals as responsibly as possible. They typically also use methods that are sustainable and in accordance with natural principles.

Wagyu beef is widely considered to be superior to other breeds of cattle for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is known for its high level of marbling, which refers to the intramuscular fat content that makes the meat juicy and tender, and also enhances the flavor. This is due to the unique genetics of the Wagyu breed, which results in increased fat deposits in the muscle tissue. Additionally, Wagyu beef is higher in monounsaturated fat, which has been shown to have potential health benefits when consumed in moderation.

Furthermore, the unique farming practices associated with raising Wagyu cattle can also contribute to the superior quality of the meat. Most Wagyu cattle are raised on small to medium-sized farms, where they are given special diets and treated with great care and attention. Many farmers massage or brush their Wagyu cattle to improve circulation, reduce stress and enhance muscle development, resulting in a high-quality product.

Overall, the combination of genetic makeup, farming practices, and the flavor and texture of the meat itself make Wagyu beef a premium product that is often sought after by discerning consumers and high-end restaurants alike.

Grass-fed cattle is often considered a healthier meat to eat because it typically contains less fat and fewer calories than beef from conventionally-raised cattle. Additionally, grass-fed cattle have higher levels of important nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and vitamin E, which may offer health benefits such as reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and boosting immune function.

Grass-fed cattle are raised on natural pastures and consume a diet primarily made of grass and other forage plants instead of grain, which is the typical diet of conventionally-raised cattle. This grazing style allows the animals to live more naturally, promoting better animal welfare, and minimizing the need for synthetic growth hormones or antibiotics

Moreover, the production of grass-fed beef relies on more sustainable and environmentally friendly farming methods which allows for carbon sequestration in the soil leading to great biodiversity and improved environmental stewardship practices.

While grass-fed beef may be more expensive than conventionally-raised beef, the health and environmental benefits it offers make it a great choice for consumers seeking high-quality meat with a positive impact.

Willis D Ranch raises their cows on 1200 acres, a sizable area for cows to forage freely and grow out naturally. This type of environment allows for better quality meat and animal welfare, as cows that have room to roam and eat grass offer numerous benefits.

Our, grass-fed cows have a unique taste profile that is unmatched by conventionally-raised cows, and they are free from antibiotics, hormones, or synthetic fertilizers.

Additionally buying from Willis D Ranch directly & in bulk by either ordering the whole cow or half the cow as opposed to buying smaller amounts from a retailer leads to cost savings often around $3-$5 per pound of meat.

Customers can ensure that they are consuming high-quality meat that is butchered to their preferences, from the farm until consumption.

Overall buying meat products from Willis D Ranch ensures better animal welfare, environmental sustainability, end healthier food options, while also offering customers a better value compared to conventionally raised beef bought in stores.

Buying a whole or half a cow for meat can offer several benefits when compared to purchasing meat from a store.

First, buying a whole or half cow allows you to have more control over the meat you consume. You can select a cow that was raised using humane, eco-friendly, and sustainable farming practices, ensuring that you are consuming meat that aligns with your values.

Second, buying a whole or half cow allows you to get more value for your money. When purchasing meat by the pound from a store, you’re paying for additional costs and benefit from bulk purchasing, offering significant cost savings per pound of meat.

Third, buying a whole or half cow can give you a greater variety of cuts of meat that you otherwise may not typically find at the store. You can work with a custom butcher to create specific cuts that cater to your family or individual needs, such as mincing, nitrites added package, or skin on or off cuttings.

Overall, buying your meat in bulk by purchasing whole or half a cow can be a convenient, cost-effective and sustainable way to ensure you’re consuming high-quality meat that aligns with your values while supporting your local farming community.

Determining your budget for locally-raised, grass-fed beef can be tricky due to various factors. However, we offer a program that allows you to purchase a whole or half beef at a reasonable price range of $7.50 to $9.50 per pound, which includes a range of cuts such as Filet Mignon steaks, Ribeye Steaks, Tri-Tips, Brisket, Carne Asada / Fajita meat, Roasts, Stew Meat, Ground Beef, beef bones for your bone marrow, soup stocks and even custom cut dog bones. It is important to note that these estimates may vary slightly due to the weight and fat content of each animal, in addition to the cost of using a separate business for butchering services.

Considering the quality and traceability of our locally-raised grass fed beef compared to grocery store equivalents, purchasing from Willis D Ranch not only will be less expensive for you, but you know what you are getting and where your food is coming from.

Our grass-fed cattle consist mainly of WAGYU and WAGYU and Black Angus Cross.

Typically, we process them within 24 to 36 months of age with an average live weight of 1,100 to 1,200 lbs. The weight that the butcher charges you for custom cutting and wrapping your order is called the hanging butcher weight, which averages between 550 to 750 lbs.

If you only desire half of a beef order, we have a wait list in place which pairs you with another person who wants the remaining half. We will not process the animal until we receive orders for a complete whole beef.

Because you have a direct relationship with the butcher, you can order whatever cuts you prefer.. Should you desire steaks or Tri Tip or hamburger meat, for example, our butcher can make that for you.

The beef is not certified organic. However, we do not give our cows growth promoting hormones or antibiotics. They live in a pesticide and chemical fertilizer free zone and are humanely raised in an eco-friendly environment.

Unfortunately, we do not offer delivery services at this time. All customers must retrieve their orders from the butcher once they are ready. Here is a link to our butcher Rancho Sestero.

Our butcher is located in Santa Maria, CA. Because the butcher is a separate business, you will arrange when and where to pick up the beef. You will need to bring coolers to transport your beef back to your home or ranch. Here is a link to the butcher’s website Rancho Sestero