Since John and Eileen Langdon’s pig farm is located near Raleigh, North Carolina, they look for ways to connect the farm and the city.

“We welcome visitors and want to educate them about what we do and how seriously we take our job,” says Eileen, who is a veterinarian, as well as a pork producer.

Pigs have been part of the Langdon farm near Benson, N.C., for more than 70 years, starting with John’s grandfather in the 1930s. Today, the Langdons and their children, including John Michael, Hunter and Megan, manage seven swine barns, where they raise 20,000 pigs each year.

The Langdons use the latest technology to help their animals stay healthy. Sensors in the barn measure the temperature and make necessary adjustments to keep the animals comfortable. “We want to keep the pigs healthy so we can produce a safe, wholesome product,” Eileen says.

Recycled water cleans the buildings’ manure holding area four times a day. This helps to protect air quality, which is better for the pigs and the people. Also, the nutrients in the manure help to fertilize the grass that the family’s cows eat. “We can produce healthy crops, pastures and cattle, thanks to these nutrients,” John says.

Careful management attracts wildlife to the Langdon’s farm, including bluebirds, wood ducks and mallards. John and Eileen, who are active in the activities of the local soil and water conservation district, have also been honored as “River Friendly” farmers because of their good farming practices.

“We want our grandchildren and great grandchildren to have the same opportunity we’ve had to raise animals on this farm,” Eileen says. “That’s what continues to motivate us.”