Goat farms becoming more popular in Missouri

Currently, the United States imports most of its goat meat into the country from New Zealand and Australia. But, consumers are looking for a more economical product as well as one that is fresh - not frozen and shipped half way across the world. Consumers are looking for product that is American made, if you will.

Goat farms and producers have increased in numbers and in size since 2002 - On January 1st, 2008 Missouri goat producers had 16% more goats in inventory than they had on January 1st, 2007. (Nationally, goat inventory was up 3% for the same time period.)

“Goat production for meat and milk continue to be the fastest expanding segment of Missouri’s livestock sector” according to Gene Danekas,
Director of USDA-Missouri Agricultural Statistics.

In 2006, a USDA survey placed Missouri in the Top 10 among states producing goats. Updated results are scheduled to be released the first week of February 2009. I expect Missouri to be in the top 5.

So Why goats and Why Missouri?

1. Missouri terrain is goat friendly. Goats will not only graze in a pasture, but they will help clean up most brushy areas. The terrain is easy to fence to keep the herd where they need to be.
2. Smaller statue: goats are less intimidating than a cow or bull; they are smaller and thus easier to handle and they are more calm than most other livestock.
3. Friendly disposition: goats are for the most part, kid friendly. Goats mix easily with cattle and some other livestock.
4. A variety of products: Not only can the meat be processed and sold, but there is a market for the milk (to drink, for lotion, for soap) and a market for some kinds of hair. (Angora goats produce Mohair)
5. Goats and goat products can easily be shipped from St. Louis or Kansas City

If you've been toying with the idea of a small farm, raising livestock and getting back to a more basic lifestyle, Missouri offers you that opportunity. You may just find that goats are the perfect match for you. And, you just may find yourself promoting Goat as the other red meat!