The Pasture Recovers with RISE Grant Support

During a summer of devastating storms in North Dakota, smaller-scale producers, often ineligible for the same insurance protections as larger operations, faced significant financial strain in the aftermath of heartbreaking damage to their farms. Farmers reported damaged animal shelters, destroyed polycarbonate coverings for greenhouse and high tunnels, ruined fencing for pastured poultry, and loss of animals and plants. 

Generous donations from our supporters make it possible for us to respond quickly and provide emergency funding to farmers. We were able to establish the RISE (Resilience in Small-scale Enterprises) Grants to award farmers in need with up to $500.00 to replace critical infrastructure needs. 

For one local farm, The Pasture, a $500 RISE Grant meant replacing critical fencing and protecting their pasture-raised poultry, ensuring they can fulfill 2025 customer orders.

Owned by Wayne and Becca Baumbach, The Pasture is a model of sustainable farming, with a mission to create a thriving, biodiverse environment for animals and people alike. Located in Cummings, ND, the couple raises myotonic (fainting) goats, boer goats, turkeys, and chickens while also maintaining wildflower meadows, beehives, and a honey processing operation on their property. The Pasture is a trusted source of pasture-raised turkeys and chickens that they offer to local customers.

Significant dedication and passion has gone into making The Pasture what it is today. Since purchasing their farm in 2018, the Baumbachs have removed thousands of pounds of debris, enhanced the soil with organic compost, and are restoring the property with native grasses, wildflowers, fruit trees, wildlife, and the rotational grazing of livestock.

The Pasture faced a new challenge on June 21st when a storm with wind gusts over 100mph and heavy rain swept through the area. The family farm was hit with devastating damage: trees fell, fencing was destroyed, and the farm’s coop and brooder were damaged. The Baumbachs lost 15 butcher-ready chickens and 20 young turkeys, an especially hard hit for their summer meat production.

FARRMS awarded The Pasture a RISE grant to help replace two critical sections of fencing, restoring secure containment for their flocks. “Without the grant, we would not have been able to replace fencing due to the cost,” said Becca Baumbach. “This funding will restore critical infrastructure and get our farm’s flocks back on track to fulfill 2025 customer orders.” The Pasture was one of several farms impacted and was among five recipients of an emergency $500 grant.

These grants helped fund critical recovery projects like replacing plastic coverings on greenhouses, rebuilding a calf shelter, and replacing fencing for pastured poultry. "We know farming is challenging and a storm like this is truly devastating," said Stephanie Blumhagen, FARRMS Executive Director. "We hope these grants help farmers begin to pick up the pieces and remind them that they're not alone. FARRMS is here to help." These projects and the grants that supported them reflect the resilience and determination of North Dakota's small-scale producers and the vital role that targeted support plays in helping them recover and rebuild. 

This story is just one example of how your contributions make a difference. Whether they’re recovering from a storm or planning for the future, your support empowers producers to grow resilient, sustainable operations. Learn how you can contribute at farrms.org/empoweringfarmers