Between a Chicken and a Cow: The Basics of Raising Medium-Sized Animals

The impressive heritage-breed animal production at Bittersweet Farm will provide the ideal backdrop for Beginning Farmers to learn about incorporating pigs and sheep onto their farms.  An extensive farm tour will enlighten attendees about the range of animals raised in this North Country haven, though the discussion will focus on the raising of sheep and Tamworth Pigs, from breeding to marketing.  There are diverse areas on the farm dedicated to different animal-raising needs; mini-lectures at specific points will highlight the essentials for starting up with heritage animals, including infrastructure needs and costs of production.

All attendees are invited to a post-workshop cookout and are welcome to spend the night at the farm, either in the cabin or in your own tent!

Bittersweet Farm is a 112-acre family farm located in the St. Lawrence River valley. The farm has grown from a two low-tunnel operation to include vegetable and herb production, eggs, pasture-raised lamb, pork, and chicken.  Ann and Brian Bennett focus on producing heritage breeds that thrive in a natural environment with a reduced consumption of grain.

Some scholarships may be available for Beginning Farmers to attend this workshop.  For more information on scholarships or the content of this workshop, please contact Rachel at (585) 271-1979 ext. 511.  Please register for this event by visiting the NOFA-NY Shopping page or by calling Katie (Membership & Registration Coordinator) at (585)271-1979 ext 512.

Funded by the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, USDA, Grant #2010-49400-21847.