Meet the Team: Ben

Back to our ‘Meet the Team’ series, we have Ben Dillon, who hails from Louisiana. He came to Whiffletree as an intern in the winter of 2021, then became a full time employee in the fall of 2023. He’s a great teacher and always ready with a word of encouragement, and loves to help others on the farm pursue their interests. And he does a great job taking care of our pigs and cattle!

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in southeast Louisiana.

What did you do before you came to farming/Whiffletree?

I served 10 years in the Navy and then produced, managed, and directed off-road triathlons and trail runs.

What inspired you to become a farmer?

Inspiration came from a growing biblical worldview and the connection of so many physical, emotional, and psychological ailments that plague society. Other inspiration came from authors such as Wendell Berry and Joel Salatin.

What are some things you didn’t expect to learn that farming has taught you?

That farming is like many other disciplines: get started and then learn through experience of what works and what doesn’t, then adjust and execute. Develop and nurture relationships. Continue in humility as knowledge and experience develops. 

God created us to participate and though nature is complex, there are techniques, practices, and procedures that are tried and true for managing in a way that benefits the entire ecosystem, in which we are connected.

How has farming benefited you?

I have benefited, just as I have served in the Navy and then as a race director, to be surrounded by amazing men and women who strive for excellence in all that they do. 

As well, farming reminds me that at the end of the day humans need clothing, shelter, and food…and that those animals need to be managed in a way that honors the animals’ nature and benefits the land, and that we farmers are dependent on our customers to value our good work, and that we farmers are here to serve our customers, animals, and land.  So that in the end, each day is a day to be committed in service of others.  

What do you hope to accomplish through farming?

To continue surrounding myself around others who value the need for managing animals in an ethical way that results in healthy, vibrant  ecology and nourishing food. 

How has your role at Whiffletree evolved in your time here?

I have gone from Intern (then serving at another farm for the summer and then spending a brief time back home) to current feeder to finish hog manager and secondarily maintaining, repairing, or coordinating repairs on our various vehicles and equipment. This coming year I will take more of a lead on our beef production.

Most memorable Whiffletree experience?

My most memorable Whiffletree experience would be sharing our winter internship experience with Robby and Josiah. The work was great but our time spent gathered together during meals and other non-farm related activities was most memorable.

What’s your favorite animal on the farm? And why?

Pigs: start to finish they are aesthetically pleasing to look at and come with bunches of personality.

Favorite hobby?  Or favorite things you like to do when not working? 

I like to backpack, read, and visit friends.

Favorite food?

I like to cook and eat various soups and stews.

Favorite dish you like to make with a Whiffletree item?

Within those soups and stews, I like to put various types of beef ranging from ground beef, beef brats, and steak.