After obtaining a Chemical Engineering degree at Ohio University and working in material development for gas processing and military applications, I purchased the land in 2018 to start a small homestead. I moved in with two horses and acquired a few sheep and chickens, which pushed me towards a passion of raising small livestock, with an emphasis on heritage breeds.

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Dominique chickens were the first heritage breed to join the farm. Their striking black and grey pattern dotted across the grass has always been a lovely view, and even in the snowy months they add a bit of fun. Shetland sheep followed a few years later, and that is really where I found my joy. I discovered the breed while participating in the Shave 'Em to Save 'Em program offered by The Livestock Conservancy. Guinea fowl, Toggenburg goats, Herdwick sheep, Muscovy ducks, and Pilgrim geese were added over the years, creating quite a menagerie in my backyard. 

 

In 2020, the sheep and chickens became Certified Animal Welfare Approved by A Greener World, with the dairy goats following in 2021.  This certification states that the farm's practices are in the best interest of the animal and guarantees that the animals are raised sustainably and on pasture their entire lives. ​I pride myself on healthy and happy creatures, foraging and roaming, doing exactly what they are meant to do. Working closely with the land to develop a well-rounded management program has been a work in progress and an ever-learning adventure. 

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I have loved creating my happy place with the furry, wooly, and feathered critters that roam my backyard.

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-Rachel LaRue