“The biggest reason that we wanted to start farming was to become self sustaining,” says Jessica Lubic, who presides over the family-based Wild Rose Farm in Eatonville, Washington. “We didn’t want to have to rely on anyone or anything but ourselves.”
After long harboring dreams of running a farm since she was a young child, Lubic and her family eventually founded Wild Rose Farm. These days, visitors to the venture encounter a tribe of goats running free across the property, ably supported by chickens, ducks and a resident turkey named Tom.
Taking a break from farm duties, we spoke to Lubic about using goats to help clear the land and the importance of knowing your food’s origins. We also got to know resident star goat Buttercup.
Send in the Goats
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When Lubic first moved into her farm property, she was faced with acres of blackberry bushes and weeds that needed removing.
The solution? Send in the goats.
“They were actually our first purchase when we moved here, as far as animals go,” she recalls. “We had bought a tractor. But, while we were at work or what not, we knew the goats were clearing ample space we would need to create a pasture for livestock.”
Since completing their inaugural task, the goats now help to provide milk, cheese, butter and soap.
Read more: Maximize the lactation cycle of your dairy goats with these 5 steps.
Goats or Dogs?
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“Goats are the dogs of the livestock world!” says Lubic. “They each have their own personality and are stubborn. No matter how big an area you give them or how much forage, they will test your fencing everyday!”
Get to Know Buttercup
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Buttercup is one of the key goats residing at Wild Rose Farm.
“When we got her, she was actually pregnant. Her personality was so different,” says Lubic. “She was sweet, docile and friendly. Now, after being a mother, she is a lot more independent and has a sense of confidence that has come to her.”
Summing up the change in Buttercup’s personality, Lubic adds: “She is still very sweet to me but weary of others. Maybe that’s just the overprotective mother in her!”
Read more: How long can dairy goats go without breeding?
The Value of Knowing Where Your Food Comes From
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Lubic says that the most fulfilling part about running a family-centric farm is “knowing where our food comes from.”
Building on the sentiment, she adds that she also takes joy from knowing “that my kids get to see how our food is made and get the experience many don’t get anymore.”
Follow Wild Rose Farm at Instagram.
