Producer Spotlight: Ron Freeman
For over 30 years, Ron Freeman has been on a journey to redefine cattle production, moving away from conventional methods and embracing a system that works with nature, not against it. His ranch, Freeman Bros Ranching near Jacksonville, IL, is a testament to the belief that biodiversity, ecosystem balance, and nature’s abundance are the keys to profitable, sustainable beef production.
A Shift Toward Nature-Inspired Ranching
Ron’s journey into regenerative ranching began with the realization that traditional cattle production required too many inputs, with not enough returns. Determined to find a better way, he focused on selecting a mid-sized, productively efficient breed that could thrive on a grass-only diet. By eliminating practices that did not align with his nature-inspired philosophy, he saw dramatic improvements. Over time, his herd developed stronger immune systems and became more productive in a low-input environment.
But his vision extended beyond cattle. Freeman Bros Ranching follows a holistic approach, where all species—plants, wildlife, and livestock—are valued equally within the ecosystem. By fostering this balanced relationship, Ron has rebuilt his land while producing high-quality, nutrient-dense beef.
Expanding the Ranch Through Regenerative Grazing
Ron's regenerative ranching practices took a major leap when his father retired from crop farming, giving him access to an additional 600 acres to graze. Seizing the opportunity to transform this land into thriving pasture, Ron worked with the NRCS EQIP program to install miles of new fencing and 27,000+ feet of waterline with tanks in every pasture. This infrastructure allowed for better pasture management, and ultimately led to Ron expanding his grass-fed, grass-finished beef business to serve customers across five states.
A Legacy of Learning and Leadership
Beyond running his ranch, Ron is a published author and dedicated educator in regenerative grazing. His expertise has been featured in a segment of Illinois Stories, highlighting his innovative grazing techniques and business model.
His commitment to learning, adapting, and sharing his knowledge has not only improved his own ranch but also serves as an inspiration for other graziers looking to build resilient, sustainable operations.
Ron Freeman exemplifies the spirit ILGLC’s Master Grazier Award, which he received at the 2025 Grazing Conference. His innovative grazing strategies, dedication to sharing knowledge, and commitment to holistic land stewardship make him a great asset to the future of grazing in Illinois!
To learn more about Freeman Bros Ranching, visit www.freemanbrosranching.com.