“I’ve been farming for as long as I can remember,” says Erica Hermonot. “This farm was passed down from my great-grandparents to my grandparents, my parents, and now to me and my family.”

For more than a century, Fairholm Farm in Woodstock, Connecticut, has been shaped by generations of family.

In October 1920, Ethal and Estella Barrett purchased the 100-acre farm for $14,500.

“I would love to bring my great-grandparents back and show them where we are now,” Erica says.

Over time, Fairholm Farm has steadily grown its dairy herd from around 100 cows in the 1970s to roughly 400 cows today. Along the way, the farm has continued to modernize, moving from a stanchion barn to a parlor, and now to four DeLaval milking robots. 

That balance of tradition and progress continues to guide the farm today.

Adapting to Today’s Challenges

Like many farms in the Northeast, Fairholm Farm faces a unique set of challenges, from limited land availability to higher operating costs and a volatile dairy market. 

“In Connecticut, there’s not a lot of extra land, so growing isn’t always easy,” says Jon Hermonot. “At the same time, the industry is consolidating, so we’re always thinking about how we stay competitive and where we fit long term.”

To help manage that uncertainty, the farm has diversified in recent years, expanding into compost sales, a farm camp for kids, and a retail farm store offering beef, pork, and poultry.

“We’re always looking for ways to bring more balance to the farm,” Jon explains. “Diversification has been a big part of that.”

Fed by Phoenix

A strong nutrition program is a key part of keeping the operation running efficiently, and Fairholm has worked with Phoenix Feeds & Nutrition for more than a decade.

“We’ve been working with Phoenix for over 10 years,” Jon says. “They’ve consistently provided high-quality grain.”

In partnership with an independent nutritionist, Fairholm Farm utilizes Phoenix products, relying on their consistency and competitive pricing to support day-to-day performance on the farm. 

“We’re feeding about 60% forage and 40% concentrate,” Jon shares. “The cows have been really healthy, and our milk production and components are strong. Having steady, reliable grain without fluctuations in quality goes a long way.”

Fairholm Farm also utilizes Phoenix’s calf milk replacer and pellets to support youngstock development, setting the herd up for long-term success.

Beyond product quality, the relationship stands out.

“I think of Phoenix as a partner. They’re always there to help, whether it’s answering questions, working through challenges, or helping us get the best value.”

“You can’t beat the customer service from Phoenix,” Jon adds. “They’re just top-notch, and you can tell they care just by interacting with them, so I recommend them to anyone, you know, because they just do everything 150% ”

For Fairholm Farm, having a trusted nutrition partner is essential in navigating an increasingly competitive and evolving industry.

After more than 100 years, Fairholm Farm continues to build on its foundation, adapting to change while staying rooted in the values that have carried it forward for generations.

“We’re always trying to make better quality milk and improve what we’re doing,” Jon says. “Having the right partners in place is a big part of that.”