MORNING VIEW, Ky. – As a trained molecular geneticist, Jennifer Myka is familiar with free radicals and their impact on our cells, so when she decided to name her 54-acre farm, she said, “Free Radical Ranch was perfect.”

“The name, Free Radical Ranch, started out as a playful play on words,” she said. “It’s got that scientific aspect and rolls off the tongue with a sense of uniqueness and energy that fits perfectly with the farm – and its owner.”

Located in the rolling hills of Morning View, Ky., in northern Kentucky, Myka founded Free Radical Ranch in 1997. 

“It all started with my love for horses,” she said. “It wasn’t long before I was raising chickens and selling their eggs. Fast forward to today, and I’m still going strong in northern Kentucky. I’ve expanded my horizons – and my animal species – by adding alpacas, llamas, goats, sheep, cattle, pigs, ducks, peacocks, donkeys, and rabbits into the mix.” 

I’m proud to say that I’ve established not just one, but six homestead farms, each more sustainable and environmentally-friendly than the last,” she said. “Free Radical Ranch is dedicated to enriching the lives of our community by sharing the joys of farming and homesteading, while being a model for exceptional animal care.”

She earned her Bachelor of Arts in biology, with minors in art and chemistry, from Hiram College in Hiram, Ohio; and her M.S. and Ph.D., from the University of Kentucky Department of Veterinary Sciences.

While the farm is not certified organic, she said, “We take pride in the quality and integrity of everything we offer. We prioritize sustainable practices, and don’t use any harmful chemicals.

“Our produce is always raised without pesticides or herbicides,” she said. “Our grass-fed animals graze on pasture grasses and hay, and our other animals eat non-GMO feeds, ensuring their well-being, and the exceptional quality of our meat and fiber products.

“Aligning with our core values, all of our animals are raised humanely with loving care, so they can live their lives in happiness and good health,” she added.

“We’re also excited to introduce Enhanced Farm Tours that are specifically designed to provide extra science support for homeschoolers,” she added. “These tours offer a unique opportunity for families to explore the beauty of our farm, learn more about sustainable practices, and engage in hands-on experiences with our friendly animals.”

Moreover, in addition to tours and events, Free Radical Ranch also offers farm stays, consulting, and a variety of meat products and gifts online.

On April 27, Kentucky Farm Bureau announced Free Radical Ranch had been accepted into the 2023 Kentucky Farm Bureau Certified Farm Market Program.

“As a member of this prestigious program, this market has committed to providing top-quality products and services to its customers,” said a statement from Kentucky Farm Bureau. “This certification ensures that Free Radical Ranch meets the highest standards of quality, freshness, and marketing appeal.”

Myka said being accepted into the Kentucky Farm Bureau Certified Farm Market Program means a lot to her, and Free Radical Ranch.

“It’s a recognition of our commitment to meeting the best practices required by the program, and proudly supporting Kentucky agriculture,” she said. “It’s an honor to be a part of this program, and contribute to the growth and success of our local farming community.”

For more information, visit: https://freeradicalranch.com