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Itasca County Farm Family

Heart & Hooves Horsemanship

For nearly 60 years, the Jerry family farm near Deer River has remained in continuous family ownership and stewardship. The 80-acre farm was originally purchased in 1966 by Llewellyn and Rosetta Jerry, who established a traditional family farming operation. Their son, Rodney Jerry, and his wife, Glorianna, continued the family’s commitment to agriculture, livestock care and responsible land management. Today, the farm is seeing involvement from its fourth and fifth generations.

In 2006, Francis and Michelle Jerry became the owners and began transitioning the operation from a traditional family farm to an equine-focused enterprise. In 2014, they formally established Heart & Hooves Horsemanship, building upon six decades of family values, hard work, and dedication to agriculture.

Heart & Hooves Horsemanship is a family-operated equine training and educational facility, featuring indoor and outdoor arenas, pasture systems, stall facilities and an extensive obstacle course. The operation supports nearly 40 horses and emphasizes responsible animal husbandry through quality nutrition, pasture management, routine veterinary and farrier care, and a strong commitment to horse welfare. 

Heart & Hooves serves approximately 500 individuals annually through horse training, riding instruction, clinics, educational programs and community events. The Jerrys actively support 4-H groups, mounted patrols, education for all ages and horsemanship development. Their educational programs have expanded beyond Minnesota to other states where they teach equine safety, proper horse training techniques and responsible horse care. They also host the Heart & Hooves Ranch Riding Association and travel throughout the region, providing educational clinics and demonstrations.

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