By Ron Brown
 
February 5, 2010
 
WILLIAMS, Ore. - A Josephine County rancher who built his reputation on organically-raised bison is trying something new.
 
The Full Circle Bison Ranch in Williams is raising a hybrid cross of "heritage" pigs for sale online and at area growers markets. Heritage pigs are a cross between two rare old English breeds, the Tamworth and large black.
 
The ranch has about 80 acres of oak forest for the pigs to forage in, with tons of acorns. Heritage pigs are certified organic, and Owner Tobias Hatfield believes it's certain to bring a new taste.
 
"What we found is that pigs that are grazing grass, eating alfalfa, we feed certified organic alfalfa, grass and acorns, have a much richer flavor. And a sweet flavor to them," Hatfield said.
 
The piglets will also be for sale once they're weaned.