Herd Management

"Breed the best, eat the rest!"

On Farm Performance Tracking ADG (average daily gain)

We track measurable performance from birth through weaning. All kids are weighed at birth and at 90 days. Data is entered into the Oklahoma State University (OSU) performance tracking spreadsheet, which calculates adjusted 90-day weaning weights based on factors such as age of dam and birth type (single, twin, or triplet).

We also calculate weaning weight indexes to compare individuals fairly within their contemporary group. This allows us to identify and retain goats that demonstrate true growth performance rather than advantages due to environmental factors.

Parasite Monitoring

Parasite tolerance is evaluated using routine FAMACHA scoring and fecal egg count (FEC) data. We are officially FAMACHA certified through the University of Rhode Island online program. 

Nutrition & Grazing Management

Our herd is rotated through a mix of woods, pasture, and brush. 

The does kid out in the pasture or woods and then we weigh and tag the kids. Depending on the size of the paddock they were born in and the weather at the time, we sometimes move them into jugs in the barn to let them bond and get to know each other's scent and voice. After 24-48 hours, they are back out with the herd again.

Winter feed consists primarily of unrolled local hay placed on recently thinned woodland paddocks to rebuild organic matter and seed banks. During late pregnancy and lactation, does receive measured amounts of grain and/or alfalfa to support maternal condition and optimize kid development — because carcass quality starts in the womb.

Evaluating Carcass Quality

We raise goats for meat and regularly process market kids for our own table. Evaluating carcass traits firsthand has been invaluable in refining our selection program. Hands-on experience with muscling, fat cover, yield, and overall meat quality informs our breeding decisions in ways that numbers alone cannot. Goats are delicious! 🙂