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Independent Cattlemen Association

Independent Cattlemen AssociationIndependent Cattlemen AssociationIndependent Cattlemen Association

Independent Cattlemen Association

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Case Studies: Proof That It Works

This isn’t theory. It’s happening right now. Montana Ranch and Cattle Company is one of the first in the nation to pioneer this model - 

operating both on the ranch and through Fresh Harvest Market.

Montana Ranch and Cattle Company: Leading the Way

At Montana Ranch and Cattle Company, we refused to accept a broken system where packers control 80% of the beef market. Instead, we used the USDA retail exemption to process our own beef on the ranch.


We then took the next step: opening Fresh Harvest Market - our own store where ranch and farm products are sold directly to the public. By applying for SNAP/EBT authorization, we now serve every family in our community, not just those who can pay cash or credit.

Highlight Box:


  • One of the first in the nation to implement the exemption + EBT model.
     
  • Operating both a ranch-based butcher shop and a full market.
     
  • Pioneering a blueprint other ranchers and farmers can follow.


“We’re not waiting for Washington or the packers. We took control of our own future.”

Farmers Working Together

In the Midwest, a group of five family farms pooled their resources to open a shared on-farm butcher shop. Each farm contributes livestock, and the cooperative hires skilled butchers to handle cutting and packing.


They sell direct at their farm market, accept EBT, and use a shared refrigerated truck for deliveries. By working together, they reduced costs and created a regional food hub that competes with corporate supply chains.

Adding Value on a Small Scale

A small farm in Vermont raises cattle, poultry, and vegetables. By using the USDA retail exemption for beef and the poultry exemption (up to 20,000 birds annually), they opened a modest farm store that meets SNAP requirements.


Their market now sells beef, chicken, fresh vegetables, and dairy - all accepted on EBT. This diversification increased farm income, strengthened community ties, and gave low-income families fresh food access.

You Can Do This Too

These examples - starting with Montana Ranch and Cattle Company and Fresh Harvest Market - prove that this isn’t a dream or a loophole. 


It’s USDA federal law, waiting for ranchers and farmers to use it.

Whether you’re a large ranch, a cooperative, or a small family farm, the model adapts to your scale. 


The key is knowing the rules, building the right facility, and connecting directly with your community.

Learn the Rules

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  • Home
  • The Problem
  • The Solution
  • How It Works
  • Regulations & Compliance
  • SNAP/EBT Setup
  • Resources
  • Case Studies
  • Compliance Kit
  • Facility Guide
  • Rancher’s Survival Model
  • White Paper
  • About Us
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • AI for ICA Members

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