Raising goats can be a rewarding and beneficial endeavor. Here are just a few of the many benefits of keeping goats on your farm:
- Milk Production: Goats are known for their high milk production and the quality of their milk. Goat milk is known to be easier to digest than cow’s milk and is also a good source of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients.
- Meat Production: Some breeds of goats, such as Spanish and Boer, are raised for their meat. Goat meat is lean and flavorful, and can be a great alternative to traditional meats for small farms.
- Fiber Production: Goats also produce fibers that can be used for clothing, blankets, and other textiles. Some breeds, such as Angora and Cashmere, are known for their high-quality fibers.
- Brush Control: Goats are known to be excellent at controlling weeds and brush, which can be beneficial for small farms that need to keep their property clear.
- Easy to Handle: Goats are known to be easy to handle and care for, making them a great choice for small farmers with limited resources.
- Companionship: Goats can be great companions for farmers, they are known to have personalities and be affectionate with their owners.
- Sustainable: Goats are known to be a sustainable animal to raise, they have a low impact on the environment, they can adapt to different terrains and climates and can thrive on roughage and weeds.
When it comes time to choose the goats you want on your farm, here are a few popular choices and their benefits:
- Alpine: Alpines are a hardy and adaptable breed, making them a great choice for small farms. They are known for their high milk production and are also used for meat. They are also known for their friendly personalities, which can make them great companions for farmers.
- Nubian: Nubians are known for their high milk production and unique, long ears. They also have a friendly and outgoing personality, which makes them a good choice for small farms.
- LaMancha: LaManchas are known for their high milk production and their gentle dispositions. They are also known for their lack of external ears, which can make them less susceptible to ear infections.
- Oberhasli: Oberhaslis are a medium-sized breed known for their milk production and their calm personalities. They are also known for their beautiful coloring, with a distinctive bay color.
- Pygmy: Pygmies are a small breed of goats that are known for their friendly personalities and their ability to be easily handled. They are also known for their milk production and are often kept as pets or companion animals.
Each of these breeds have different characteristics, and choosing the right breed for your farm will depend on your specific needs and goals.
By raising goats on a small farm, you can enjoy fresh milk, meat, and fibers, while also benefitting from their ability to control weeds and brush. Additionally, goats are easy to care for and can make great companions for farmers. Keeping goats on a small farm can also be a sustainable way of producing food, fibers and controlling weeds.
Three Daughters Farm 