What You Should Know
If You Want To Ship Goat
Milk Goat
Check
Market Conditions: Local Milk Processor may not be accepting new milk
processors or have a lengthy waiting list.
Usually people are interested in milking goats for a couple of reasons. First of all almost everyone likes the fact that there is no need to purchase quota when shipping goats milk. This is because there is no marketing agency for goat milk. However, some mistakenly take this to meaning that there is no regulation. In fact the same regulations apply whether you are shipping goats milk or cows milk. Actually goat milk producers have to be even more knowledgeable about some dairy practices. We have to be very aware of cleanliness because our milk is only picked up once a week as opposed to every other day for cows milk and because goat milk tends to be more susceptible to off flavors, it is necessary to constantly monitor all feed stuffs and the milk quality. Another reason people give for wanting to get into milking goats is that they think that goats will be easier to to buy and to handle than cows. Goats may be easier to handle, but they come with their own set of rules, with seasonal breeding being only one. As for easy to buy most people are surprise what they will have to pay for quality dairy animals, that is if they can find any, actually good quality animals are much easier to breed than buy.
When deciding whether or not you want to get into milking goats there are several criteria which have to be met. First you need someone who is willing to buy the milk you produce (Milk processor), these markets are growing and there is increasing interest out there, but the markets at present are very limited and potential producers far outnumber potential processors. Second you should have some working knowledge of goats and goat milk production, it is always wise to start with a few animals and grow and learn as you go rather than to buy an existing herd and start cold. Several people have tried the latter with dismal results.
Next you will need a milk house that meets all the criteria essential to receive a class 'A' dairy license, as no one can sell raw milk to anyone without a license. You will also need suitable stabling and land capable of producing good hay. Many producers get by with buying all their grain ration, but add to that the cost of buying hay and you may find it impossible to manage. Finally you will need a herd of goats, preferably high producing goats , and this will probably be the hardest part to accomplish. My advise to anyone getting started is to think ahead, purchase a few good does , bred if possible and then find yourself the best buck you can afford and start breeding your own herd. Mature does will routinely produce twins, or triplets, so with good management you will have a good sized herd before you know it. If you start off with poor quality animals you can of course always upgrade , but starting with good stock is much faster and more economic in the long run.
Your OMAFRA
office has information fact sheets available for the asking on milk
houses as well as information on goats and milk production. There are
also several good books available with valuable information on diseases,
housing, management etc. One of the best ways of learning about goats
and goat dairies it to contact someone who is shipping milk and ask to
see their operation. Several of the producers in Ontario are members of
the Ontario Goat Milk Producers' Association and most producers are very
willing to share their knowledge.
Your prospective milk processor will also have a handbook of their requirements from
sampling to laneway access.
If you don't know of any goat milk producers in your area, contact the OGMPA, they will be happy to answer any questions and help where they can.
