About Bracher Farms

History

Our farm story begins in 1887 with the original homestead near Helix, Oregon.  Since the late 1800's dry land wheat farming and livestock have remained the economic center for our family.  In the first part of the 20th century, the family expanded and transitioned from mule and real horsepower to large diesel tractors.  In the 40s a major shift occurred with the trade of bulk grain instead of sack grain. This allowed farmers to build warehouses and ship grain more efficiently.  A new generation of farmers arrived in the 70s with more varieties of grain and even larger equipment.  Along with that came the use of fertilizers, herbicides, and grain varieties bred for better yields and resistance to diseases.  Turn of the century ushered in the current generation of Bracher Farmers and the changes in technology.

Growth and Changes

The farm continues to grow and is reshaped by expanding families, agricultural opportunities and advances in technology. All of our land remains dry land (non-irrigated) and wheat remains the economic center.  We have diversified in many ways to support our growing family.  This includes: organic mustard, forest land and pasture rangeland improvement. We also keep in mind that the farm will support our family for years to come. We act as environmental stewards by improving wildlife habitat, practicing soil conservation with minimum tillage, and reducing reliance on chemicals and fertilizers.  It is important to us that we remain on the leading edge of technology and agricultural practices. We hope that our creative and innovative solutions will allow our family farm to support Brachers for generations to come.