Episode 48: Raising Goats

Goats are amazing animals. They are tough, versatile and have many uses. Related to sheep, goats are lighter in build and have horns that arch backward, shorter tails, and straighter hair. Goats can survive and thrive just about anywhere. They are browsers and valued for eating inexpensive nutrient sources, such as woody plant and weeds that other livestock typically won’t consume. Goats have been used for milk, meat, fur, and skins across much of the world. Milk from goats is often turned into goat cheese.

On this fascinating episode of Nature Calls: Conversations from the Hudson Valley, learn from Peter and Charlene Padin as they talk about their goat farm located in Columbia County. They explain their journey to becoming goat farmers and the joys and challenges of raising an Alpine goat herd. Did you know that goats dance? Charlene also describes the many kinds of cheese that can be made from goat’s milk.

Hosts: Tim Kennelty and Jean Thomas

Guests: Peter and Charlene Padin

Photo by: Tim Kennelty

Production Support: Linda Aydlett, Annie Scibienski, and Teresa Golden

Resources

Cornell Goat Program

Sheep & Goats

Last updated December 16, 2022