In Tomales, fifth-generation rancher rules free-ranging roost

by Ben Stocking March 29, 2023March 30, 2023

Anna Erickson tends her family farm with help from her sister, Laura. She says the small size of her flock—1,000 strong—is ideal for her lifestyle. She sells the eggs at an Oakland market, where she says her customers are kind and supportive. (David Briggs / Point Reyes Light)

Anna Erickson is raising a 5-year-old child and 1,000 chickens. The name of her business is apt: Hands Full Farm.

Anna, the chickens and her son, Frank, live on a 350-acre cattle ranch between Tomales and Valley Ford that’s been in the family since 1897. She intends to run the entire operation when her 70-year-old dad retires, but she’s hoping he doesn’t stop working anytime soon. For now, her hands are indeed full.

The hens…