Frequently Asked Questions

Beef & Lamb FAQs

What does “forage-finished” mean?

At Rado Heritage Ranch, our cattle and sheep are raised primarily on diverse pastures and are finished on forage as much as possible. We believe forage-based nutrition — combined with heritage genetics and time on pasture — produces healthier fats, robust nutrient profiles, and the rich, nuanced flavor our customers appreciate.

We do provide supplemental nutrition (such as barley, alfalfa pellets, or shredded beets) as needed to support energy and condition, especially during times of increased demand (cold weather, late pregnancy/lactation, recovery, etc.). Even with these supplemental feeds, the foundation of our program is pasture and forage, not grain-based finishing.

Do you ever use grain or commercial feed?

We do not use grain or high-starch commercial feeds as part of a traditional grain-finishing program. Our priority is forage-based feeding, and we do not confine animals to a grain-fed feedlot system.

When necessary for animal well-being, we may offer limited supplemental feeds (such as barley, alfalfa pellets, or shredded beets) to maintain condition, support lactating ewes, or help animals through periods of stress. These supplements are used sparingly and support animal health — they are not part of a grain-finishing regimen.

What breeds of livestock do you raise?

We raise:

• 100% Red Devon cattle
• Registered Navajo-Churro sheep

Both are heritage breeds known for exceptional pasture performance, flavor, and hardiness.

How does ordering beef or lamb work?

1. Submit your order request on our website.
2. We contact you with current availability and/or butcher dates for whole animal.
3. You choose pickup or delivery.

What cuts are included in a beef package?

A package includes a balanced mix of:

• Steaks
• Roasts
• Ground beef
• Soup bones

Do you ship meat?

At this time, we offer:

• Local pickup
• Delivery on a case-by-case basis

Shipping may be added in the future as we scale.

How long does it take to receive my order?

We keep beef and lamb stocked in our freezer.  Most order packages can be picked up or delivered within 24 hours. These quantities are limited.  Restocking depends on our harvest schedule. Many customers, wanting ½ or whole cow or sheep should reserve ahead; we will provide estimated dates one you submit your request. We do not rush our cows and sheep, weight and condition are monitored to determine time for processing.

How do you manage parasites and animal health?

We prioritize animal health through pasture management, genetics, and monitoring. When parasite treatment is necessary, we use targeted, responsible interventions rather than routine treatments.

Cattle & Sheep (Breeding Stock) FAQs

Do you sell breeding stock year-round?

Yes, but availability is limited. Our animals are bred selectively for temperament, forage efficiency, and conformation.

Do you offer consulting for new homesteaders?

Yes — we are happy to help you select animals that fit your goals, land, and forage conditions.

Are your cattle A2/A2?

Many of our registered Red Devons are A2/A2. Ask us about current herd genetics.

Do you sell rams and ewes for breeding?

Yes. We offer registered Navajo-Churro rams, ewes, and lambs annually.

Can we visit the ranch?

We allow visits by appointment only.

Regenerative Agriculture & Soil FAQs

What does 100% no-till mean?

Our ranch practices true no-till management across all acres — including our garden beds.
We do not mechanically disturb the soil, preserving:

• Soil structure
• Fungal networks
• Microbial life
• Carbon sequestration potential

Do you use chemicals or synthetic fertilizers?

No. We focus on biological soil health through:

• Managed rotational grazing
• Diverse forages
• Compost applications
• Sea minerals
• Natural amendments

What is rotational grazing?

We move cattle and sheep through small paddocks frequently, allowing grasses time to rest and regrow. This mimics natural herd movement and leads to healthier soil, stronger forage, and better animal nutrition.

How do you manage soil health and fertility?

We manage soil health through no-till practices, rotational grazing, and soil-test-guided mineral amendments such as lime and calcium. These inputs are used thoughtfully to support soil biology and long-term resilience.

Wool & Fiber FAQs

Do you sell raw wool?

Yes. We offer raw, skirted Navajo-Churro fleeces in multiple natural colors.
Perfect for:

• Hand-spinners
• Felters
• Weavers
• Small mills

Do you plan to offer Longwool fleeces?

We anticipate offering Longwool fleece as we expand our flock.

Do you offer washed, carded, or felted fiber?

Right now we sell raw fleece. Additional fiber products may become available as we develop our wool enterprise.

Pickup, Delivery & Payments FAQs

Do you offer delivery?

Yes — depending on location. You can request delivery during checkout.

What payment methods do you accept?

We will soon accept:

• Credit/debit cards (Stripe)
• PayPal
• In-person card payments (Square)
• Cash for ranch pickup

Do you require deposits?

For large orders and live animals, deposits may be required. We will communicate this during the order process.

Policies & General FAQs

Can I reserve beef or lamb ahead of time?

Yes! Most customers reserve in advance. Just submit a request on our Order page.

Do you offer refunds?

Deposits are non-refundable, but we will work with you if scheduling issues arise.

How can we stay updated on availability?

You can join our email list or follow us on social media (coming soon).