Who We Are
NC Farm Families began in 2015 in response to attacks on family-owned pig farms in North Carolina from activist groups like the Waterkeepers. Today, we are a coalition of thousands of NC hog farmers, producers and friends all fighting to protect the farm families of NC.
Our Team
NC Farm Families is run by passionate individuals with a rich history in agriculture. They are committed to doing their part in protecting the farm families of North Carolina. The staff of NC Farm Families also works heavily with a dedicated board of directors. Together, they work hard to be a voice for the farmer.
Chad Herring—Executive Director
A third generation farmer, Chad raises pigs in Mt. Olive, NC with his family. He has a strong desire to advocate for family, friends, and this great industry.
“My family is a North Carolina farm family and I want to be involved. I have a vested interest in the success and sustainability of the pork industry. My kids know how important this farm is to our family. I want to lead them by example and to show them that some things are worth fighting for.”
Marisa See— Director of Engagement
Growing up on a farm in Mt. Olive, NC that has been in her family for more than a century, Marisa’s passion for ag grew through raising and showing livestock.
“I’ve always enjoyed telling stories, but one of my favorite stories to tell is that of the farmer. I believe in the farmer and am passionate about making sure their voice is heard. I’m proud to be part of an organization that is so committed to protecting the farm families of NC. I’m also grateful to be a part of an organization that combines some of my favorite things: pigs, agriculture, and food!”
Who are the Farm Families?
The farm families of North Carolina are men, women, parents, grandparents, coaches, teachers, neighbors, and hard-working families. They are everyday people who have a passion for their profession. The faces of NC Farm Families may look ordinary, but they are extraordinary people doing amazing things.Over 80% of North Carolina’s pork farms are owned and operated by individual farm families, who make the preservation of the environment, the humane treatment of their livestock and the well-being of their communities they live in top priorities. These family farms produce a high-quality, healthy, nutritious product – grown and processed right here in North Carolina – that is in high demand in North Carolina, across the country and around the world.
These farms operate the right way. Pork farmers in North Carolina specifically work with animal scientists and veterinarians, including those at North Carolina State University, to make sure they raise and bring pigs to market humanely.
Recently, these family farmers have been under attack by anti-agriculture activist groups. These attacks have the potential to badly damage the state economy, cost thousands of jobs and put many family farmers out of business. NC Family Farmers was created to stand up and speak out in their defense against these attacks.
Questions? Please feel free to contact us at info@ncfarmfamilies.com.
