Diversified Farming Systems
Our farm is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species that work in harmony together with the land. We are developing a rotational grazing system that starts with goats to will eat invasive plants, followed by sheep to clean up after the goats, and then flocks of turkey, chickens and ducks to eat pests while adding nutrient-rich natural fertilizer back into the soil.
Our Kiko goat and Katahdin sheep herds are hardy breeds that are parasite resistant and well-suited to our northeastern climate. They are instrumental in our invasive species management. Our livestock guardian dogs keep watch over the herds.
We also have plans to develop a diversified orchard with fruit and nut trees along with shrubs and berries. This permaculture approach will also provide shade for grazing animals and will include bioswales for water retention.
Invasive Vegetation Management
As is common in the northeast, Japanese barberry, mugwort and multiflora rose threaten the forest understories. Through long-term grazing patterns, our goat and sheep herds are our most valuable tool in actively managing invasive species without the negative impact of chemical or mechanical means of removal. Ultimately our goal is to restore native plants to the forest understory and re-establish native meadows.
