Learn about buying local meat

New to buying direct from farms? Start here. Our guides cover everything from animal shares and yields to cuts, processing, and freezer planning.

How Animal Shares Work

Understand whole, half, and quarter shares — ownership timing, processor relationships, and estimated versus final pricing.

Learn the difference between live weight, hanging weight, and take-home weight — and why yields vary.

A consumer-friendly guide to steaks, roasts, ground beef, brisket, short ribs, and more.

A neutral comparison of feeding systems, flavor, marbling, production time, and pricing.

From finishing to pickup — understand the full processing journey and key terminology.

Estimate how much freezer space you need for different share sizes.

Answers to common questions about buying, selling, payments, processing, and compliance.

Browse farms and listings near you.