James Haven Farms and Piggin’ Out are joint business ventures operated by Phyllis James and her son, Mark. Located outside of Perth, James Haven Farms is a former commercial pig farm that has evolved into an operation focused on local food production. Piggin’ Out is the name of the booth at the Perth Farmers’ Market—started by Mark and his brothers-- that the family has run since 1993.
The centerpiece of the booth is the barbecue where sausages, pork burgers and back bacon laden with homemade condiments are served up to hungry customers. Baked goods including pies, doughnuts, scones, breads, muffins and other delectable treats make this a must-stop spot for farmers’ market visitors. Frozen cuts of pork can also be purchased at the market or directly from the farm.
On the farm, Phyllis and Mark raise pastured turkeys and chickens. The birds are housed in huts and are moved daily. The feed comes from a local certified organic farm. In 2008, they introduced a mobile egg operation that provides free-range eggs for their farmers’ market booth.
James Haven Farms uses non-certified organic methods. Members of Canadian Organic Growers, Lanark County Slow Food, Lanark Organic Producers’ Guild, Perth Farmers’ Market.