Aaron White served two tours with the Marine Corps, deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Upon separating from the military, Aaron established White Stock and Produce in Carlisle, Iowa. He has 20 cow/calf pairs, 2 dozen laying hens, and a half-acre garden plot on which he plants one crop each watermelon and winter squash. All of his products have been certified Homegrown by Heroes since 2014. Aaron is a husband, father, active church-member and works as a fifth grade teacher and coach.
Aaron grew up on a small-scale livestock farm in Iowa, where his step-father taught him to raise cattle, sheep, hogs, goats, and chickens. This experience was just the beginning of what developed into a lifelong commitment to agriculture. In his “spare” time, Aaron helps out with his father-in-law’s row crop operation.
Aaron set about his new career as any dedicated teacher would; by seeking out as much knowledge and experience as possible. He attends the Practical Farmers of Iowa conference every year, as well as monthly gatherings of ranchers in his community with the intention of exchanging tips and ideas to improve grazing practices. Aaron opened his farm to local ranchers in order to benefit from their advice about his operation and, as he gains experience, he has been able to offer advice in return.
Aaron is a 2015 Bob Woodruff Farming Fellowship awardee. He will use the grant to purchase a trailer and a bull to enhance and expand his operation.
Aaron credits his time in the Marine Corps with teaching him many skills that he applies to his farming career. Bringing all of his men home from Afghanistan unharmed is one of his most meaningful accomplishments. Aaron is well-trained for the responsibility that comes with caring for his herd and flock. Visit White Stock and Produce on the web: https://www.facebook.com/WhiteStockProduce/timeline
