Dionas Farm
Project Background:
After working with landowners and partners for years in the Buckley Plateau to lay the groundwork for conservation in this rapidly developing agricultural community, Washington Farmland Trust is proud to call Dionas Farm its first conservation project in the area. The Buckley Plateau in eastern Pierce County historically supported many mid-scale dairy and livestock farms in the prairies between the White and Carbon Rivers, but with its proximity to the urban centers of Seattle and Tacoma and its unobstructed views of Mount Rainier, the Plateau has become an attractive location for development, making it a top priority area for conservation.
Current Farmer:
Dan and Kim Dionas purchased Dionas Farm in 2015 as second career farmers. Together, they have made significant investments to convert the land from a horse farm to a small-scale, sustainable cattle operation. In addition to upgrading on-farm infrastructure, Dan is working with the Pierce Conservation District to identify opportunities to increase productivity and natural resource protection such as rotational grazing and improved manure management practices.
Farm Products:
The farm currently supports 25 red angus beef, which are processed and sold locally direct to consumers.
