Rural Vermont Hosts Final Farmer Workshop of Raw Milk Series:
Learn the Ins and Outs of Producing Raw Milk for Direct Sale
Rural Vermont wraps up its series “From Cow (and Goat) to Customer” with a final workshop on Saturday, September 17th from 11 am – 3 pm at New Village Farm, located at 700 Harbor Road in Shelburne. There is a suggested donation of $10 for Rural Vermont members and $20 for all else. Advance registration is not necessary, but preferred and appreciated – to sign up, call (802) 223-7222 or email shelby@ruralvermont.org.
“From Cow (and Goat) to Customer” will illustrate the options available to those current and aspiring farmers considering the production and sale of raw milk. Participants can expect to learn about the regulations governing the sale of raw milk, and to see them in practice on a successful raw milk micro dairy, while learning about animal care and micro dairy management. At the end of the day, participants will debrief with a cold and refreshing glass of New Village raw milk and cookies donated by From the Ground Up Bakery.
This workshop will be useful for anyone considering raw milk sales as a profitable farm addition. The information presented will be applicable for goat, sheep, and cow dairies. Bring a brown bag lunch and lots of questions! Informational materials will be provided by Rural Vermont, including a detailed seller’s guide, outlining everything farmers need to know to sell raw milk within the confines of the law.
The New Village Farm setting will provide an opportunity to check out a successful microdairy and raw milk business, and see how they have incorporated the requirements of the new law by investing a limited amount of money and time. Farmer Michaela Ryan will share what she’s learned along the way, and will welcome questions about the farm and her raw milk endeavors.
For the last several years, Rural Vermont has been advocating for common-sense raw milk regulations that are sensitive to the small scale of farming here in Vermont. In July 2009, a new law went into effect that established a set of reasonable and basic standards that all raw milk sellers are expected to follow. There are a few additional requirements for those selling more than 50 quarts per day, and/or making home deliveries.
New Village Farm is a biodynamic learning farm that offers a practical skills-building education program. It is owned and operated by Michaela Ryan, and along with the help of local children and the community, New Village produces and sells raw milk, eggs, beef, pork, lamb, goat, and chicken. Animals are raised on pasture and organic feed, and all farm products are available at the farmstand. For more info, visit www.NewVillageFarm.com.