By: Rachell Rottman, AmeriCorps Member
Located in Dayton, Pennsylvania, Tri-County Farm is a multigenerational farm owned and operated by Ryan and Ali Barrett and their three children. As the name implies, the 116-acre farm spans three counties in Western Pennsylvania: Armstrong, Indiana, and Jefferson counties. Ryan’s great-great-grandfather established the farm in 1899. Ryan grew up on the farm and took over when he was a mere 15 years old. Ali also grew up on a dairy farm in Rural Valley and shares a deep appreciation for agriculture with her husband, who is “happiest on the farm” and left a full-time career as a carpenter to pursue farming and homesteading with his family.
What Farming Means to Tri-County Farm
When asked why they farm, Ali shared that they want their daughters to grow up on the farm and learn respect for the land and animals that provide for us. They also want others in the community to be able to rely on one another rather than big stores. The Barretts believe that home-grown meats don’t have to be a luxury, and at Tri-County Farm, community members can buy affordable, trustworthy, and healthy products.
How You Can Support Tri-County Farm in Dayton
Tri-County Farm currently offers pork and beef shares, as well as packaged beef and pork for convenience, including hamburger, steak, bacon (which sells out very quickly!), pork chops, and other cuts of meat. They will soon be expanding their offerings to include meat chickens and turkeys for Thanksgiving. Orders can be placed via email at [email protected], call or text at 724-954-8685, or through Facebook messenger. Payment can be made by cash, check, Venmo, or PayPal.
The Barretts also host an annual Christmas vendor show that began in 2020 and are hoping to bring more events to the farm for the community to enjoy.
And, as if they aren’t busy enough… Ryan, Ali, and their crew are opening Tri-County Feed at the former Dayton Feed Mill and Graham Brothers Milling Company at 125 W. Main Street in Dayton this spring! Here, you’ll be able to find livestock and pet feeds and supplies, general hardware, Tri-County Farm freezer meats, Bostonia Dairy milk, gardening and planting supplies, canning supplies, small gifts, and locally-made home necessities. Keep an eye on the Tri-County Feed Facebook page for announcements.
Explore Agritourism and Agricultural Programs in Armstrong County
Armstrong Conservation District (ACD) and Experience Armstrong, Inc. are collaborating on a new ongoing blog series highlighting Armstrong County farms, agricultural events, and locally-produced products. Tri-County Farm is currently working with ACD to install a heavy-use area with manure storage and associated BMPs, along with a grazing plan. ACD provides financial and technical assistance to farms throughout Armstrong County. Learn more about programs offered by the Armstrong Conservation District — including nutrient management, manure management, erosion and sediment control, farmland preservation, and agricultural security — and other agritourism opportunities throughout the county with Experience Armstrong, Inc.
