Goats - A prepper's asset

One of the things I've noticed in the prepping lists and documents I have perused, is little mention of livestock. When it is mentioned, it seems in passing, and not a lot of information on the topic is put forth, nor practical opinions. As an opinionated stocker-up of goodies 'just in case', I would like to put for my own practical opinion on the livestock I would definitely think about adding to one's personal 'prep list'.

As far as livestock is concerned, goats are not necessarily the easiest. Alot of hands-on time will be spent with these animals, whether they are being raised strictly for meat; for their milk; or for a conglomeration of both. But, I daresay, these critters have a way of creeping into your hearts and can quickly become family members that earn their keep!

Goats are known as the 'farmer's weed whacker', this is due to not only the fact that goats can and will sample everything, but also, because of their anatomy, they prefer to reach at eye level or above for their food, preferring to browse on the tips of woody shrubs, trees, and leafy plants. Think of them as miniature giraffes, they don't like to 'graze' as sheep or cows do. Goats are browsers, not grazers. This will help keep your land clear of not only those pesky branches that always snag the bottom hem of your shirt, but also the encroaching brambles.

The basic requirements, though simple, need to be thought out and planned for efficiency and effectiveness. First, they need shelter. Obviously this is not only a task to build correctly, but also, an ongoing project to keep clean. Once the 'goat hut' is built and function-able, it is important to set up a routine schedule for yourself of not only cleaning, but also maintenance and inspection. Buildup of yuckiness underfoot can and will cause sickness, and just like you, goats will not enjoy cold drafts and leaky roofs.

Second, they need space. With fencing. This is something that will definitely keep your hands busy in a SHTF situation. And here, once again, maintaining and repairing your goat's fencing and/or pen is an integral part of the upkeep of having goats. Keeping about 6 to 10 goats per acre is just about right. The amount of goats will vary with the quantity and quality of browsing material available.

Thirdly, they do need an alternative food source. Yes, they can survive on their foraging, but for the best meat and milk outcome, you will want to add some nutritional supplementation to their diet. Supplementation with corn and oats is much recommended. Lots of fiber in their diet prevents digestive disturbances.

Raising goats, while hard work and sweat, can be very rewarding. And in a teotwawki situation, you will be grateful to have a sustainable, yet productive herd.

My Friday lists keep growing!

Hooray for mid-week Fridays!  Now that my weekend has begun, I have so much planned.  Our weather here is finally giving the soil a chance to dry out, so I can till to my hearts content!  We have a garden party planned for my Queen's birthday. We are expecting our first baby goat in two weeks. Our greenhouse still has to be finished. Whew! And that's just the beginning few lines of my list! Expect pictures and videos!

    We received two new young laying hens yesterday from a neighbor down the road (THANK YOU ANNIE!) and they are already laying strong! They complement our flock nicely as far as coloring goes. The same friendly neighbor will also have some chicks to give us in a week or two, so things are getting pretty busy around here!

    Our weed-eater's carburetor is almost shot - learned only last year that small two-stroke engines need ethanol free gas.  But, I do plan on finding a way to convert it to veggie oil, so maybe now is a great time, since I will have it apart to repair the carb anyways.

    After the winter's destruction of our greenhouse, we have decided to start straight into the garden whilst it gets repairs. Here's to hoping for the best!

    I plan on making a movable goat pen with movable electric fence like they use on Polyface Farms.  Very sustainable. i recommend the book, "The Sheer Ecstasy of Being a Lunatic Farmer" by Joel Salatin, to everyone. This was a wonderful read.  It fits right into what we are trying to accomplish here at Amber Fox Farms.  I am always looking out for inspiration and knowledge to create and maintain our farm as a sustainable homestead.  This book sent me farther in the right direction!
here's the permalink:
the sheer ecstasy of being a lunatic farmer
    and here's a link to the Polyface blog 'Hen House':
The PolyFace Hen House

    My Queen's Birthday Garden Party Extravaganza should be wonderful! I think it is a wonderful idea for a birthday party! what do you think? Let me know!