Kidding Season Thrives on Clackamas County Farm Supporting Women and Food Security
- eaglecreekfamilyfa
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Kidding season is in full swing on a 20-acre farm in Clackamas County, where a group of 30 goats is cared for by a dedicated women's group focused on strengthening food security. This week, the farm welcomed twins from a Nubian goat, a special moment that highlights the farm’s role in supporting sustainable agriculture and community resilience. With several more births scheduled in the coming days, the farm is buzzing with activity and hope.
The Importance of Kidding Season on the Farm
Kidding season marks a critical period for goat farmers, especially those who rely on their herds for milk, meat, and breeding stock. On this Clackamas County farm, the timing of births is carefully managed to ensure the health of both does and kids. The arrival of twins from a Nubian goat is particularly exciting because Nubians are prized for their rich, high-butterfat milk, which supports the farm’s dairy production.
The farm’s 30 goats are more than livestock; they are a vital part of a community effort to improve food security. By raising goats, the women’s group provides fresh dairy products and meat to local families, reducing reliance on external food sources. This hands-on approach to farming helps build resilience in the face of supply chain disruptions and economic challenges.
How the Women’s Group Supports Food Security
The women’s group managing the farm brings together individuals with a shared goal: to create a sustainable source of nutritious food. Their work includes:
Caring for the goats: Feeding, health checks, and managing kidding schedules.
Processing dairy products: Turning fresh milk into cheese, yogurt, and other goods.
Community education: Teaching others about sustainable farming and food preservation.
Sharing resources: Distributing surplus products to families in need.
This cooperative model not only supports food security but also empowers women by providing skills, income, and a sense of community. The farm acts as a living classroom where members learn about animal husbandry, nutrition, and small-scale farming techniques.
What Makes Nubian Goats Special for This Farm
Nubian goats stand out for their adaptability and milk quality. Their milk contains higher butterfat than many other breeds, making it ideal for cheese and yogurt production. This quality is essential for the farm’s goal of providing rich, nutritious dairy products to the local community.
The recent birth of twins from a Nubian doe is a positive sign for the herd’s growth and productivity. Twins are common in goats but require attentive care to ensure both kids thrive. The women’s group has experience managing multiple births, providing warmth, colostrum, and monitoring for any health issues.
Preparing for Upcoming Deliveries
With several more goats expected to give birth soon, the farm is preparing carefully. Key steps include:
Setting up clean, safe kidding pens: To reduce stress and prevent infections.
Monitoring pregnant does closely: Watching for signs of labor and complications.
Providing extra nutrition: Ensuring does have enough energy and minerals for birthing and milk production.
Planning for kid care: Assigning team members to assist with feeding and health checks.
These preparations help reduce risks and improve survival rates for newborn kids. The farm’s proactive approach reflects the women’s group’s commitment to animal welfare and sustainable farming.
The Broader Impact on the Community
This farm’s work goes beyond agriculture. By supporting food security, the women’s group contributes to community health and stability. Access to fresh, locally produced food improves nutrition and reduces food deserts in the region.
The farm also creates opportunities for social connection and learning. Workshops and farm visits invite community members to engage with food production firsthand. This connection fosters appreciation for farming and encourages more sustainable food choices.
Looking Ahead: Building a Sustainable Future
As kidding season continues, the farm’s success depends on ongoing care and community involvement. The women’s group plans to expand educational programs and explore new ways to increase food production without compromising animal welfare.
Their model shows how small-scale farming can address big challenges like food insecurity and economic empowerment. By nurturing their goats and each other, these women are building a stronger, healthier community.
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