Meet a Farmer: Deb & Johnny Wray
Meet Deb and Johnny Wray of High Hope Farm, located in Northeast Mississippi along the edge of the region’s fertile Prairie Belt.
Farmer’s Footprint is a nonprofit initiative dedicated to restoring human and environmental health by advancing regenerative agriculture through education and storytelling.
Located in Northeast Mississippi along the state’s famed and fertile “Prairie Belt,” Deb and Johnny Wray founded High Hope Farm - a regenerative operation built on a commitment to cultivating a vibrant ecosystem. Their approach prioritizes soil health and animal welfare, avoiding herbicides, pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, antibiotics, growth hormones, & other chemical pharmaceuticals, with rare exceptions made only to save an animal’s life.
They have grown over the past decade from selling just 3-4 grass-fed steers in their first year to now selling shares in around 25 annually, along with around 100 lambs, plus a growing flock of layers.
"We have the world to live in on the condition that we will take good care of it"
The Wrays continually review and refine their grazing plan - including animal movement, fencing design, water systems, shade, and the integration of cool- and warm-season annuals. Looking ahead, they hope to welcome a resident farm partner, creating immediate income opportunities while fostering ongoing education through workshops, conferences, and other regenerative-focused programs.
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