They also are helping to protect the quality of water in the Tennessee and Paint Rock Rivers. Reflecting their interest in wildlife, the Joneses have introduced whitetail deer, wild turkeys, wild ducks and geese to the area. They have conducted experiments with forages that can attract quail and other small game. To provide more wildlife habitat, they have reforested areas on the farms. They have planted more than 21,000 walnut, pine, and oak trees.
Rotational grazing helps maintain pasture quality.
To help maintain quality of groundwater used by residents of nearby Huntsville, the Joneses took steps to prevent any contamination of wells on the farm. They regularly test soil on the farms, and they provide fertilizer as needed. They also are concerned about the cleanliness of drinking water for their cattle. The Jones family has been in the cattle business for 48 years. However, the family's agricultural enterprises go back to 1804, when Ray's great, great grandfather first settled in Madison County.