VALLEY CENTER, Calif. - For the first time, the public can buy fresh and organic turkeys directly from a San Diego County farmer for the holidays.
TAJ Farms in Valley Center used to only sell all-natural poultry it raised to friends and family, but demand has skyrocketed, and so this year, it's offering its birds to the general public.
"It's very encouraging that people want our product," said Jack Ford. "It's encouraging that people are looking for local sources for their food, sustainable farming methods and that farm to table experience."
Ford raises two types of birds, Kentucky Bourbon and Heritage turkeys. He said all the birds are raised humanly with natural-organic food and in nature.
"They sleep, eat and rest in a large fenced in area, but a majority of the day, they roam the field, foraging and eating," said Ford.
Ford has been raising turkeys for six years. It's a project he started with his late father. He is the only farmer to sell fresh, local birds in San Diego County.
"The turkeys get a lot of organic grains, oat hay and whatever is grown in the garden. They also get a lot of movement. Altogether, they're a different animal than what you buy in the grocery store," he said.
Ford said his birds have a much better flavor and more importantly, help sustain his farm.
Ford spends many of his days educating elementary and middle school students about farming and sustainable living.
"It's important for kids to see where they're food is coming from," said Ford.
The TAJ Farms turkeys are more expensive than store bought. He sells two weight-classes: 12-16 pounds for $145 or 18-22 pounds for $175.
As of November 7, Ford said he had 73 turkeys left. He has several dozen available for Christmas and New Year's as well.
