Small Farm Spotlight

In this series, get to know more about the small farm operations that are using sustainable methods to help meet the local demand for fresh food. And meet the farmers that are making it happen!

By: Patrick Holladay

“Through agriculture and farming the past 2 years I have found something positively life changing for my family. We are here to keep our agricultural heritage alive with traditions that have been shown and passed on from the generations before us.” These are the words of Ian Griffith, the hard-working farmer/owner of Ocean Grown Farm.

Ocean Grown Farm is a small family farm in the Sterling community of Brunswick in Glynn County. With a heart for their community, Ian, his partner Tymber Ammons and his young family raise some of the best farm-fresh meat found in the area. And they are not new to food, farming and great taste. Both Ian and Tymber have worked with Southern Soul Barbecue for years. If you’ve ever eaten the amazing barbecue at this famous restaurant on St. Simons Island you know they understand how delicious a pig can be!

Using permaculture and regenerative principles, the plan for the farm is to use the animals to clear and prepare land. Starting with pigs and cows, future plans include adding goats, sheep, chickens and seasonal crops to the farm’s offerings.

“I like the idea of permaculture because of the purpose it serves. Permaculture allows a natural process without chemicals, best for the animals and the land. Rotating the livestock keeps them on fresh ground, the pigs get fresh forage and add nutrients to the soil. The ground feeds the pigs and the pigs feed the ground,” Ian explained.

Ian is driven to produce high quality meat products for his community so people can enjoy the many benefits of eating pasture-raised meats.

“The quality of commercial factory farming and the lack of knowledge of that process, no one really knows what these products contain and what we are putting into our bodies. I have always had a love for good quality food. Using my knowledge and experience, I can now provide that quality to others.”

Looking to find Ocean Grown Farm products? Ian is a regular vendor at the Mary Ross Farmers Market in Historic Downtown Brunswick and other local pop-up markets like the ones at Striplings General Store on State Highway 17 and with the Way Green cooperative.

All their wonderful products can also be purchased online through the Barn2Door platform and are available for delivery in Brunswick, St. Simons Island and beyond. Current selections include a variety of beef steaks, fresh sausage links, pork chops, smoked cured ham, and thick cut bacon. Grab a sampler pack to try an assortment of these high-quality products, which includes nitrate-free sausages for those who are staying to stay nitrate free. (Ian is even known for passing out some free samples at the farmers markets!)

Ocean Grown Farm is also a member of Georgia Grown Trail 17. This agritourism trail runs from Florida to South Carolina showcasing agribusinesses and is the coastal corridor for agritourism experiences. (Farm visits by appointment only). To learn more about the farm, check out Facebook and Instagram and you are welcome to give them a call at (912) 602-8590.

Ian Griffith, his family and Ocean Grown Farm have one final thought that he shared with us.

“I truly believe smalls farms are revolutionary and can solve a lot of problems in the world.” We couldn’t agree more.