The current commercial activities include: Chiangus cattle, timber, contract fishing and hunting (deer, turkey, quail, dove, waterfowl, rabbit, grouse, woodcock) and wildlife observation (songbirds, raptors, predator mammals).

Timber Production
Cumberland Mountain Farm comprises about 700 acres. Approximately one half of the farm's production is in maturing forest products. This timber will be selectively harvested using sound environmental practices under the guidance from the Forestry Service.

The other half of the farm is in pastureland. Some of this pastureland is used for cattle, and some has been converted to native warm season grasses for wildlife.

Cattle Production
John and Matt Looney are Certified Master Beef Producers, participating in commercial cattle production with Tom Looney Farms of Crossville, Tennessee. This operation is prominent nationally in Chiangus cattle production.

Conservation Practices
The Farm works closely with the Agricultural Extension Services of the University of Tennessee, North Carolina State University, North Carolina A&T State University and Clemson University to utilize best agricultural practices and to explore new commercial opportunities. The Farm also works closely with the Forestry Service, the U.S. Soil Conservation Service and the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency.

Historically
For many years the farm was primarily in the business of producing seed stock for commercial hog producers. This swine operation was developed in close consultation with the Swine Extension Service of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Cumberland Mountain Gilts were highly valued by commercial producers for their strong genetics for both good mothering traits and leanness. Offspring of Cumberland Mountain Gilts were animals of extraordinary leanness and rapid growth. The University of Tennessee used these offspring in demonstrating high meat quality. One of these offspring had the largest loin-eye (pork chop) ever seen by the University Meat Science specialists.

Qualifications
American Chianina Association #6096 (long Range Planning Committee)
Tennessee Beef Quality Assurance #8516
Master Beef Producer Certifications (John: 12/01/07 & Matt: 3/31/08)

Member
Tennessee Cattlemen's Association (Producer Education Committee)
American Chianina Association
Tennessee Farm Bureau
Pick Tennessee Products

Of Interest:
Tom Looney Farms
Center for Profitable Agriculture