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How to Celebrate National Agriculture Day
March is National Agriculture Month, a time to recognize the hard work and dedication of farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers across the country. And today, on National Agriculture Day, we celebrate the industry that feeds, clothes, and sustains us all. Agriculture is more than just farming—it’s a vital part of our economy and a cornerstone of our communities.
At Wilders, agriculture is at the heart of everything we do. From raising 100% Wagyu beef and Berkshire Pork with a commitment to quality to supporting fellow farmers, we believe in strengthening local agriculture for future generations. Today is a reminder to not only appreciate where our food comes from but also to support the farmers and producers who make it possible!
How to Support and Celebrate National Agriculture Day
1. Buy Local & Support Farmers
One of the best ways to celebrate agriculture is by supporting local farmers and ranchers. Choosing locally raised meat, produce, and dairy ensures your dollars stay within the community while also providing you with fresher, higher-quality food. Whether it’s stopping by a farmers' market, purchasing directly from a local farm, or seeking out restaurants that source locally, every small choice makes a big impact!
2. Learn About Agriculture & Share Its Importance
Many people don’t realize how much work goes into producing the food on their table. National Agriculture Day is the perfect time to learn more about farming and the agricultural industry as a whole. Follow farms and agricultural organizations on social media, read up on farming practices, or take a deeper look into where your food comes from. If you already know the value of agriculture, use today as a chance to share that knowledge!
3. Show Appreciation for Farmers & Ranchers
A simple “thank you” can go a long way. Whether it’s a social media post, a handwritten note, or an in-person conversation at a farmers’ market, showing appreciation for those who work in agriculture helps highlight their importance. National Agriculture Day is the perfect time to reflect on all that farmers do and recognize the dedication behind every meal!
Agriculture is at the core of our communities, economy, and way of life. Whether by supporting local farms, learning about the industry, or saying thank you, everyone can play a part in celebrating National Agriculture Day!
Celebrate National Farmer's Month with Wilders!
October marks National Farmers Month, a time to recognize the essential role farmers play in feeding our communities and driving local economies. Farmers provide more than just food; they’re the backbone of agriculture, working hard to ensure the availability of fresh, nutritious, and sustainable products year-round. It’s important to recognize how supporting farmers benefits not only them but all of us. Here are two key reasons why supporting farmers is essential:
1. Farmers Strengthen Local Communities
Farmers are integral to all communities, big and small. They create jobs, stimulate local economies, and provide access to fresh, local food. When we support local farmers by shopping at farmers' markets or buying directly from farms, we’re keeping money within our communities. This boosts local economies, preserves farming as a way of life, and ensures that future generations can continue to work the land.
2. Building Stronger Connections
There’s something special about knowing where your food comes from. When you purchase directly from a farmer, you’re not only getting farm-fresh produce but also developing a personal connection with the people who grow your food. Farmers are passionate about their craft, and many are eager to share their knowledge and experiences. These connections foster a sense of trust and respect, allowing consumers to make informed choices about the food they bring into their homes.
How You Can Support Farmers
Supporting farmers is easier than you think. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:
Shop at farmers markets: Buying fresh, seasonal products directly from farmers helps them retain more of the profit and reduce food waste.
Buy locally whenever possible: Whether it’s meat, dairy, or produce, choose local products at your grocery store to support local farms.
Attend farm tours and local events: Many farms host events such as seasonal festivals, harvest celebrations, or farm tours, which are open to the public. Attending these events is a fun and educational way to support farmers!
As we celebrate National Farmers Month, there's no better time to show your support for local agriculture by choosing Wilders. Our 100% Wagyu beef and Berkshire pork products are locally raised with care in Eastern North Carolina, embodying what it means to be a local farmer. By purchasing from Wilders, you're not only enjoying premium, farm-to-table meats but also investing in your community. Join us this month in honoring farmers by supporting Wilders and all the hardworking hands behind every product!
What Makes North Carolina Agriculture So Special
North Carolina's agricultural roots run deep, playing a vital role in both the state’s economy and its culture. Local farms across the region cultivate a rich variety of crops and livestock, helping to strengthen our communities. At Wilders, we’re proud to be part of this thriving industry and are grateful for the support we receive from those around us. Let’s take a look at three key factors that make NC agriculture truly remarkable!
1. Building Up Local Communities
One of the most powerful aspects of North Carolina agriculture is its direct impact on local communities. Farms play a vital role in supporting local economies. Farmers markets across the state allow residents to buy directly from producers, ensuring that more money stays within the community. This local connection creates a strong sense of pride and trust between farmers and consumers.
2. Geographic Diversity
North Carolina’s geographic diversity is one of its greatest assets. The state’s climate ranges from the mountains in the west to the coastal plains in the east, providing farmers with a variety of environments suited to different types of agriculture.
3. The People
At the heart of North Carolina agriculture are the people—farmers, producers, and consumers—who all play a role in supporting one another. Local farmers work tirelessly to provide high-quality products, while consumers actively choose to support their neighbors by buying local!
North Carolina’s agriculture is more than just an industry—it’s a reflection of the state’s vibrant communities, diverse landscapes, and the hardworking people who bring it all together. When you shop North Carolina meat and produce, you are investing in your local community. Shopping with Wilders is one of many ways to support the people and farmers around you!!
Your Go-to Guide on Where to Find Wilders
If you're looking to enjoy the great flavors of Wilders, you’re in luck! We proudly serve our 100% Wagyu beef and Berkshire pork at three farmers markets across North Carolina as well as two retail locations. No matter what you're planning or craving, Wilders is your go-to for quality and taste. With this location guide, there’s never an excuse to miss out on our exceptional products!
Retail Locations:
The PaperCo
114 W Main St, Clayton, NC 27520
Weekdays 8:00am to 5:00pm
Choose from a full selection of our 100% Wagyu Beef and Berkshire Pork!
The General Store
156 Long Horn Creek Ln, Turkey, NC 28393
Monday-Friday from 10:00am to 6:00pm, Saturdays from 10:00am to 4:00pm
Choose from a full selection of our 100% Wagyu Beef and Berkshire Pork, as well as Wilders swag!
Contact us if you're interested in a farm tour!
Farmers Markets:
Midtown Farmers Market
4191 Main at North Hills St, Raleigh, NC 27609
Saturdays 8:00am to 12:00pm; Apr 13 - Nov 2
Wrightsville Beach Farmers Market
12 Seawater Ln, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
Mondays 8:00am to 1:00pm; May 13 - December 2, 2024
If you're a North Carolina local, you have plenty of options to come see us in person! If you can't make it to these locations, you can always shop online here on wilders.com, as we ship all across the United States!
Meet our WILD Summer Interns!
Another summer season has rolled around which means a new class of interns! This summer, we’ve welcomed a diverse group of enthusiastic interns who are ready to learn, contribute, and bring fresh perspectives to our operations. They come from various backgrounds, each bringing their unique flavor to our brand. Join us as we share their stories and welcome these seven young interns into our WILD family!
MEET OUR NEW TEAM MEMBERS
EllaRyan Miller
Title: Contact & Network Engineer Intern
Education: Studying Communications Studies with a minor in Entrepreneurship at UNCW
“So far, I have really enjoyed touring the farm and working at markets; learning more about what Wilders does. I am excited to continue to learn and build connections. Since starting here, I have been working on making a CRM system that works for everyone in the company.”
Lillie Martin
Title: Marketing & Content Intern
Education: Double majoring in Business Administration and Integrated Marketing Communications at Catawba College
"I have loved getting to know the people at Wilders and the "why" behind everything. I love the versatility of this role; I stay busy and I am always learning something new. In the past few weeks I have taken over the weekly recipes, blogs, and emails, and I have captured content for various projects. I am excited to see what I learn next!"
Victoria Tomlinson
Title: Retail Management Intern
Education: Studying Communications & Marketing at East Carolina University
“It has been a great experience so far being a part of a team and getting to see how a productive workspace flows. I have recently been working on sorting apparel inventory in hopes to launch more on the Wilders website. Additionally, I have been brainstorming and implementing ideas for new summer swag!”
Luke York
Title: Logistics Intern
Education: Graduated from Liberty University with a degree in Business Administration with a focus in Supply Chain Management
"I have really enjoyed learning from Ms. Joette and Ms. Erica about everything our logistics program has to offer. Learning about all the meats and different cuts has been awesome! I can't wait to see what the rest of the summer brings!"
Josh Goldberg
Title: Logistics Intern
Education: Graduated from NC State with a degree in Agribusiness Management
"I have enjoyed getting to know the people within Wilders the past few weeks. I have learned a lot about supply chain management already through managing the wilders inventory. I am ready to see what the rest of the summer holds!”
Nicholas Wolcott
Title: Agriculture Management Intern
Education: Studying Animal Science at NC State University with focus in ruminant nutrition
“Wagyu is my favorite breed, so I love getting to work with them. I have already begun to learn about nutritional requirements and the behind the scenes of keeping these animals healthy.”
Christopher Barefoot
Title: Agriculture Management Intern
Education: Studying Agribusiness Management with a minor in Animal Science at NC State
"I have loved getting hands on experience on the farm; getting to work with the animals and learning upkeep of the whole farm. The people here are great and I am eager to learn more from them.”
We are so excited to see the impact these interns have on our operations, and we can't wait to see how they grow and develop throughout the summer. Make sure to say hello to them if you see them at a market, in the office, or out in the wild!
The Best Way to Season Cast Iron
If you don't have a cast iron skillet on hand in your kitchen, now is the time to get one! These "workhorses of the kitchen" are extremely versatile, allowing one to sear, fry, bake, roast, braise, and so much more! Here at Wilders we LOVE using cast iron skillets to prepare our 100% Wagyu beef and our Berkshire Pork too! Because our products have such defined and extensive marbling, using the cast iron skillet allows the meat to retain and baste in its own natural buttery flavors.
The true secret behind using a cast iron skillet is seasoning it correctly. Although most cast irons come pre-season these days, it is important to care for your skillet as the seasoning erodes over time. The Food Network recommends following these four simple steps for seasoning your cast iron skillet to create a flavor sure to enhance your cooking experience!
What You'll Need for Seasoning a Skillet
Cast Iron Skillet
Neutral Oil (canola or vegetable oil)
Paper Towels
An Oven Preheated to 350°F
Aluminum Foil
Directions
Coat Your Cast Iron Skillet with Oil
Dampen one paper towel with neutral oil. Using this paper towel, coat the entire cast iron skillet with oil (this includes the bottom and handle of the pan).
Using another paper towel, wipe away all excess oil. There should only be enough to coat the pan and it should feel dry to the touch.
If too much oil is used, it will develop a sticky feeling. Be sure there is only a thin layer of oil before step two!
Bake Your Coated Cast Iron Skillet with Oil
Line lower rack of oven with aluminum foil and preheat to 350°F.
Once the oven is heated, place the cast iron skillet upside down on center rack.
Bake for one hour. This allows the pan to develop a non-stick quality.
Leave Your Cast Iron Skillet to Cool in the Oven
After one hour, turn off the oven and allow the skillet to cool completely before removing.
Repeat for an Unseasoned/Stripped Skillet or As Needed
If your cast iron skillet is not already pre-seasoned, you should repeat these steps until your pan develops a smooth finish.
This method is tried and true here at Wilders! We highly recommend it for many of our products, especially our Prime Wagyu Steaks!
Wilders Donates Over 500 Pounds of Pasture-Raised Wagyu to Hurricane Ian Victims
Wilders Donates Over 500 Pounds of Pasture-Raised Wagyu to Hurricane Victims
Based in North Carolina, our team is far too familiar with the devastation a hurricane can cause. Which is why, when Hurricane Ian hit Florida, we knew we wanted to help.
Some of our coworkers from RiverWild headed down to Florida with a trailer full of supplies to help repair homes and businesses in the wake of the hurricane. Wilders was honored to contribute 500 pounds of our ground, pasture-raised Wagyu to that trailer load of love, and pray for God's protection and provision over the recipients.
“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” -Helen Keller
How We Raise Our Pasture-Raised Animals
Here at Wilders we are passionate about raising well-rounded animals including pasture-raised chickens, full-blood Wagyu, Angus cattle, and Berkshire pigs. Everyday the animals are tended to with love and attention.
Where Can You Buy Wilders Pasture-Raised Meats in NC?
It’s your lucky day - Wilders is now sold at various markets in North Carolina. Check out where we will be located!
Memorial Day Wilders Giveaway
Win Wilders for the rest of the year!
Enter our Memorial Day giveaway for your chance to win a $150 meat bundle, plus a $50 gift card each month for the rest of the year.
To enter:
1. Enter your email below
2. Extra entry for following Wilders on Facebook and Instagram
Winners will be announced on May 30!
Check out our shop for all of your favorite Wagyu and Angus prime cuts, Berkshire pork, and pasture-raised chicken!