Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
much space you need, depends mostly upon the nature of your region's climate, the goals you
have in mind for your operation, and of course, the size of your herd.
If you are starting with just two or three goats, keep the arrangements simple. You can expand
your facilities later when you decide to increase your herd. Before constructing any special
buildings or investing in expensive dairy equipment, consult your local agricultural officials
and zoning department to make sure any improvements you make comply with zoning laws,
building codes, and regulations. Local agricultural bureaus will have information and advice
specific to goat keeping in your region, including recommendations for housing, building
plans, and warnings about disease.
To determine how much land you need for your goats, first check local government zoning
regulations. Besides being zoned for livestock, you might have to comply with regulations
specifying the amount of land required per animal housed. A minimum amount of space prob-
ably is required to house any livestock at all. In most rural areas, the rules governing goat
keeping will not be too restrictive for your purposes. Some urban areas do not allow livestock
to be kept at all, while others are friendly to community gardens and small farm enterprises.
In some areas, goats are defined as livestock while in others they are defined as companion
animals. This definition can affect the success of a dairy-farming operation.
Most people are surprised to learn that, when well managed, five acres can support 100 dairy
goats. You can keep a dozen goats on one or two acres, including land for your stable. Within
this space, specific areas and enclosures should be allotted for various purposes.
Yards and fences
No animal can escape like a goat. Goats are clever and like to work at solving problems. A
small flaw in a fence presents an irresistible challenge to a goat brain. Prepare an escape-proof
enclosure before you bring home your first goats. Goats love to eat shrubs, vegetables, garden
plants, and tender rose bushes (which contain a lot of vitamin C). They also love to jump on
top of cars. A reliable, well-made fence is essential to everyone's well-being and peace of
mind.
A well-built fence remains strong for as long as it is needed, prevents goats from going where
they do not belong, and protects them from dogs, coyotes, and other predators. Good fences
also protect goats from demolishing your trees and shrubs. For keeping goats, you will need
three types of fencing: boundary or perimeter fences, interior fences, and barn lot fences.
