When we first envisioned our regenerative farm, our initial focus was on managing the steep hillside slopes that came with our land. That naturally led us to consider introducing grazing animals—primarily cows and goats—to help with vegetation control and soil health.
But as with many new ventures, we quickly realized this was an entirely new world.
Where do you even buy livestock? How do you care for them properly? What kind of fencing is required? What’s the deal with predators? And why does every conversation suddenly involve a whole new vocabulary?
But as with many new ventures, we quickly realized this was an entirely new world.
Where do you even buy livestock? How do you care for them properly? What kind of fencing is required? What’s the deal with predators? And why does every conversation suddenly involve a whole new vocabulary?
The First Herd
Our first set of cows and goats came from a generous rancher on the Central Coast. We visited his ranch—absolutely beautiful—and were thrilled when he offered to deliver the animals directly to us.
We felt off to a great start.
Our first set of cows and goats came from a generous rancher on the Central Coast. We visited his ranch—absolutely beautiful—and were thrilled when he offered to deliver the animals directly to us.
We felt off to a great start.
Reality Kicks In
Well… let’s just say the grass isn’t always greener—even if the goats think it is.
It didn’t take long before we encountered the flip side of livestock ownership. Despite our best efforts, the animals occasionally broke through the fence and wandered down to our house, happily munching on flowers and landscaping we were quite fond of.
Building the System
We quickly realized that before the animals, there needs to be infrastructure:
Well… let’s just say the grass isn’t always greener—even if the goats think it is.
It didn’t take long before we encountered the flip side of livestock ownership. Despite our best efforts, the animals occasionally broke through the fence and wandered down to our house, happily munching on flowers and landscaping we were quite fond of.
Building the System
We quickly realized that before the animals, there needs to be infrastructure:
- Fencing strong enough for determined goats and curious cows
- Reliable water access throughout the grazing area
- Predator protection, especially at night
- Shelter, feed planning, and—yes—poop management
And then came the babies. Our herd started growing with calves and kids, and suddenly we were learning about hay storage, birthing signs, and naming debates around the dinner table.
Still Learning, Still Growing
We’re still early in this journey, but every challenge has taught us something new. Our goal remains clear: to build a resilient, regenerative farm where animals, land, and people all thrive together.
It’s hard work—but it’s deeply rewarding. And we wouldn’t trade our flower-eating goats for anything.
It’s hard work—but it’s deeply rewarding. And we wouldn’t trade our flower-eating goats for anything.
