Welcome to Shat Acres!

About Our Farm

Welcome to Shat Acres Highland Cattle, LLC! We are a husband and wife-owned business located in the beautiful state of Vermont, with farms in Plainfield and Greensboro Bend. Shat Acres was founded as a dairy farm in 1915 by Ray's grandfather, Arthur Shatney--hence the name Shat Acres. Our journey with Highland Cattle dates back over half a century, when in 1966 Ray's father purchased Scottie, his first of these remarkable animals. Shat Acres Highland Cattle is now the oldest registered fold of Highland cattle in the United States. Highland cattle are a heritage breed, and we are proud of our ancient genetics which are sought after by discerning Highland breeders throughout the United States. Our Highland cattle offspring have been sold to breeders in over thirty of the United States, as well as Canada and Australia. 

Our passion for offering Highland beef was ignited when Janet, after reading The Omnivore's Dilemma, had a life-changing experience tasting 100% Grass Fed and Finished Highland Beef. She knew in her heart that this breed had something truly special to offer, as Highland beef is unsurpassed in flavor, tenderness and health benefits. In 2007 Ray and Janet decided to share the exceptional 100% Grass Fed and Finished Beef their Highland cattle produced with the world. Driven by love for our respective hometowns, Greensboro Bend and Plainfield, we proudly named our beef brand Greenfield Highland Beef. Little did we know that what started as a small-scale operation, expecting to sell just a few animals each year, would grow into something extraordinary that would help sustain the Highland fold Ray's dad had started so long ago.

Highland cattle, with their long hair and long horns are truly majestic and awe-inspiring--unmatched by any other breed of bovine. Because we know how much joy, peace and comfort Highland cattle offer, we have added a Farm Stay option where guests can gaze at and commune with our Highland cows and calves. Highland House Farm Stay is a brand new, three bedroom, 2.5 baths, sleeps six, CleanAir home on the Plainfield property. Highland cattle graze outside the Farm Stay's spacious deck and farm activities are offered for guests to interact with the cattle and learn about our Regenerative Agriculture practices if they wish.

Shat Acres Highland Cattle is not only the oldest registered fold of Highland cattle in the US, but also the oldest closed herd. Our fold currently numbers around seventy-five animals. At Shat Acres, we are committed to raising our cattle humanely with the utmost care and respect. Our animals graze on lush pastures, enjoying a natural and wholesome diet that translates into healthy cows and calves, and flavorful and tender beef. We are passionate about sustainable farming practices and believe in the importance of preserving our land and resources for future generations.

We invite you to explore our website and learn more about the Highland Cattle that have captured our hearts, bringing us joy and purpose for over fifty-seven years. Whether you are looking to purchase your first Highland breeding stock animal or an established breeder looking to improve your Highland genetics, a seasoned beef enthusiast looking for a superior meat option for your table, or a place to get away surrounded by beautiful vistas and Highland cattle, we guarantee that Shat Acres Highland Cattle, Greenfield Highland Beef, and Highland House Farm Stay will exceed your expectations.

Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. If you have any questions or would like to know more about our breeding stock, beef, visiting options, and farming practices, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are here to share our knowledge and the gifts our Highland cattle can offer.