Gabriel Francisco
Gabriel Francisco
Thunderfoot Farms
Paw Paw, MI
Gabe Francisco is a livestock and grazing specialist based in southwestern Michigan and co-owner of Thunderfoot Farms, a 28-acre sheep farm in Paw Paw which he runs with his wife, Emily. Thunderfoot Farms was the first "Certified Naturally Grown" livestock farm in the state of Michigan and is a MAEAP verified farm in both Pastures and Livestock. Thunderfoot Farms focuses on raising healthy livestock through regenerative grazing and building a farm that reflects values of stewardship, resilience, and community. Gabe is also one of the founding members of "A Common Pasture", a cooperative of small farmers producing Certified Naturally Grown pasture pork, and also serves on the boards of the Michigan Sheep Breeders Association and the Texel Breeders Association. Gabe holds a degree in Sustainable Agriculture and Draft Animal Farming and was part of the inaugural class of the Wendell Berry Farming Program. His path to farming has been anything but typical spanning work as a professional clown, paleontologist, traveling chef, and avalanche control technician. Those experiences continue to shape his approach: curious, adaptable, and rooted in real-world problem solving. At heart, Gabriel and Thunderfoot Farms are committed to helping farmers succeed while caring well for their land and livestock.
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