Home of Rhode Island’s First Registered Pinzgauer Herd

At Slate Hill Cattle Company, we are proud to be the first cattle operation in Rhode Island to raise and register Pinzgauer cattle, a rare and historic breed known for its tender, flavorful beef and exceptional resilience. As a family-run ranch, we are passionate about sustainable ranching, ethical livestock management, and preserving the legacy of this remarkable breed.

The History and Legacy of Pinzgauer Cattle

The Pinzgauer breed originated in the Pinzgau region of Salzburg, Austria, dating back over 1,500 years. Developed by Alpine herdsmen to withstand harsh mountain conditions, these cattle are prized for their hardiness, adaptability, and premium beef quality. The name "Pinzgauer" was first documented in the 1600s, and by the 1800s, these cattle were being exported throughout Europe, eventually reaching South Africa, Canada, and the United States.

In the U.S., Pinzgauer beef ranks among the most tender and flavorful, as confirmed by studies at the USDA Meat Animal Research Center. Unlike conventional beef, Pinzgauer meat retains its natural tenderness, without artificial processing, making it a premium choice for Rhode Island consumers looking for high-quality, grass-fed beef.

Sustainable & Ethical Ranching in Rhode Island

At Slate Hill Cattle Company, we are committed to regenerative farming and humane livestock management right here in Rhode Island. Our Pinzgauer cattle are born and raised on our Cloverbud Ranch, where they thrive on:

✔ 100% Grass/Forage Fed Diet – Grazing on coastal Rhode Island grasses in spring and summer, transitioning to baled hay in winter, with seasonal treats like pumpkins and fruits.
✔ Stress-Free Weaning – We naturally wean our calves to minimize stress for both mother and offspring.
✔ No Hormones, Antibiotics, or Vaccines – Our cattle are raised without unnecessary interventions, ensuring pure, natural beef.
✔ Regenerative Pasture Management – We cultivate our land using natural, pesticide-free methods to maintain healthy, nutrient-rich Rhode Island soil.

A Family Tradition Rooted in Rhode Island

Slate Hill Cattle Company isn’t just a ranch—it’s a family-run operation led by Dennis Welch and his wife, Crystle Welch, who was born and raised on Aquidneck Island, Rhode Island. Together with their two children, Lillie and Easton, they are passionate about raising high-quality, grass-fed beef while maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare.

Our kids love life on the ranch and take an active role—especially when it comes to naming the majority of our cows! We believe in educating the next generation about sustainable ranching while working to expand the presence of Pinzgauer cattle in Rhode Island and beyond.

Preserving the Pinzgauer Legacy in Rhode Island

As the first registered Pinzgauer cattle ranch in Rhode Island, our goal is to educate and collaborate with other local farmers to grow this magnificent breed’s presence across the Northeast. We are dedicated to preserving genetic purity, producing premium grass-fed beef, and practicing sustainable ranching that benefits both the environment and our community.

Whether you’re looking for Rhode Island-raised, grass-fed beef, nutrient-rich tallow, or all-natural dog treats, Slate Hill Cattle Company is committed to providing the highest quality products straight from our farm to your table.

Experience the Slate Hill difference—where tradition, sustainability, and family values meet.