As November is Military Family Appreciation Month, we're featuring JonDor Herefords, a family-run farm in Rushford Village, MN, owned by Army Veteran Jonathan and his wife Dorothy. After serving in Vietnam from 1968-70 and earning a Bronze Star, Jonathan returned home to build a life with Dorothy on an abandoned 40-acre farmstead. Today, the farm has grown to 120 acre and specializes in 100% Hereford cattle and Hereford hogs.
Jonathan, originally a city kid with a love for Herefords, and Dorothy, who grew up with a few Herefords herself, decided to make farming a family endeavor. Their interest in agriculture started with 4-H projects for their kids and has since evolved into their retirement passion. They’ve kept the family affair going strong: Jonathan handles the daily care of the animals, their son Josef manages the breeding and show prep for both hogs and cattle, and Dorothy does all records, promotion, and pitches in across the farm.
The Hereford cattle and hogs are the farm’s pride and joy. Known for their mild temperaments and fantastic flavor, these animals produce meat that Jonathan and Dorothy describe as “old-fashioned and great tasting.” Their 100% Hereford cattle provide tender, juicy beef, while the Hereford hogs offer deliciously rich red meat. For Jonathan and Dorothy, interacting with customers at local markets and sharing the unique story of their farm and Hereford breeds are among their favorite parts of farm life.
JonDor Herefords sells at the La Crescent and Goodview Farmers Markets and directly from their farm. If you’re looking for high-quality Hereford beef or pork, be sure to check them out on their Minnesota Grown directory listing.
This month, and all year long, we extend our gratitude to Jonathan and all veterans for their courage, service, and sacrifice. Thank you for your dedication and for the freedoms we enjoy every day. You can support more veteran-owned businesses by using the producer identity filters in the Minnesota Grown directory.