JTJ Highland Acres

JTJ Highland Acres, horned shorthorns in Lime Springs, Iowa, is located in Northeast Iowa and the Driftless Area near Decorah. Jessica Larson manages this family operation with a focus on breeding resilient dual-purpose cattle. It follows USDA-aligned herd-health protocols, including regular veterinary exams and genetic screening. Calves are raised on open pastures with rotational grazing to promote natural behavior, seasonal exposure, and healthy muscle development.

Alongside horned shorthorns, the farm offers heritage semen and embryos to support conservation of native lines. Its dual-purpose cows provide both high-quality milk and sturdy draft work suited to small homestead settings. The farm’s roots in cow/calf operations and grass-fed practices reflect a commitment to sustainable agriculture that benefits local communities and small-scale farms. Each breeding cycle includes careful records to ensure lineage transparency and ongoing improvement, with selection criteria that emphasize longevity and feed efficiency.