CD&J Mini Ranch

In 2018, Cynthia, her husband David, and their son Justin took a significant step by establishing the CD&J Mini Ranch. This 35-acre Certified Naturally Grown farm is nestled just outside San Benito, Texas, in the picturesque Rio Grande Valley. Close to South Padre Island and the Southern border next to Mexico, our ranch benefits from the refreshing gulf breeze that constantly flows through the area.

Our journey began with a commitment to raise our own meats and produce. This decision was driven by increasing concerns over meat and vegetable recalls, the challenging conditions market animals face, and the food shortages caused by hurricanes, floods, freezes, and the COVID-19 pandemic. We raise a diverse array of animals, including pigs, cows, ducks, seasonal turkeys, and chickens. Alongside our animals, we cultivate various vegetables. Not only do we and our neighbors enjoy these fresh products, but we also ensure their longevity through canning, dehydrating, and freeze-drying.

When we began, our intent was simply to provide a healthier, more readily available food choice for our family. However, as we progressed, we found that others in our community shared these concerns. This realization inspired us to offer our fresh, grass-fed, locally-grown meats and vegetables to our Valley community.

Cynthia took the initiative to market our products at local farmers' markets, directly from our farm, and to a handful of small businesses. At the CD&J Mini Ranch, we now sell our products online individually or through our Protein Pack CSAs, offering a model reminiscent of a traditional produce-based CSA. In addition to our Certified Naturally Grown produce, we emphasize our humanely treated, free-range cattle, our grass-fed Angus & Wagyu, Idaho Pasture pigs, and farm-fresh eggs.

As you explore our story and products, we hope you find what you are looking for. If any questions arise, please don't hesitate to reach out to Cynthia for more information.