With the rise of urban farming, self-sufficiency, and sustainability, goats have gained popularity in the Midwest and worldwide. These fascinating creatures come in a delightful variety of shapes, colors, and sizes, ensuring there's a perfect fit for every goat enthusiast out there. So, are you considering purchasing one of the acreages for sale in Central Iowa and fulfilling your dream of raising goats? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from finding that perfect property to caring for your fun new goat herd.
Part 1: Finding the Ideal Acreage in Iowa
1. Location Considerations: Finding Your Perfect Piece of Land
When it comes to purchasing an acreage in Iowa for goat farming, the location is absolutely paramount. Consider the following factors to ensure you find the perfect piece of land:
- Accessibility: Best to opt for a location that provides very easy access to main roads and highways, facilitating transportation of goods and livestock. Additionally, consider proximity to essential amenities such as grocery stores, veterinary services, and schools.
- Terrain and Soil Quality: Goats like to graze... and graze... and graze... Evaluate the terrain of the property to ensure it is suitable for goat farming. Look for land with gently rolling hills or flat areas, as steep slopes can be challenging for both grazing and infrastructure development. Assess soil quality to ensure that it can support healthy pasture growth, which is essential for all grazing goats.
- Water Sources: Adequate water sources are crucial for both your goats and for your property's overall functionality. Look for properties with natural water features such as ponds, creeks, streams, or wells. Alternatively, consider the feasibility of installing irrigation systems or water catchment systems if those natural sources are limited.
2. Goat Space and Cohabitation
How Much Space Do You Need to Raise Goats?
Determining the space required to raise goats is essential for their well-being and your management practices. Here's a breakdown of space requirements based on the number of goats and their behavior:
- One Goat: A single goat requires a minimum of 250 square feet of space. However, goats are herd animals and prefer companionship, so keeping a lone goat may result in excessive noise. Two goats are recommended for companionship.
- Two Goats: Two goats require at least 500 square feet of space. With a buddy, goats are happier and quieter. Ensure they have access to a hay feeder, fresh water, shelter, and shade for comfort.
Do Goats Need a Pasture to Graze In?
Contrary to popular belief, goats are browsers, not grazers. While they may nibble on grass, they prefer browsing on bushes, weeds, and other foliage. Pasture grazing is not a necessity for goats unless they lack other sources of nutrition. Providing alfalfa hay as the main dietary source is preferable, supplemented with grazing opportunities for variety.
Managing Space and Cohabitation
- Escape Artists: Goats are notorious escape artists and will seek variety in their diet, often attempting to escape their enclosures. Implementing pasture rotation and dividing the yard into smaller areas can prevent escape attempts and satisfy their need for exploration.
- Cohabitation: Goats can cohabitate with various animals, including sheep, llamas, alpacas, and chickens. However, it's essential to separate them from pigs, as pigs may attack goats. Additionally, be cautious when keeping goats with fowl, as they may lay their udder in feces if confined in small quarters.
Managing Male and Female Goats
- Castrated Males (Wethers): Castrated males can be kept with females without issues. They exhibit similar behavior to females and are suitable companions.
- Breeding Males (Bucks): Breeding males should only be kept with females during breeding time. Pregnant does and mothers with babies should be separated from bucks to avoid aggression and potential harm to the offspring.
- Baby Goats: Baby goats should be kept separate from adult goats until they are at least 3-4 weeks old. Avoid keeping them with bucks, as bucks can be aggressive and pose a threat to the younglings.
3. Size and Zoning Regulations: Ensuring Compliance and Adequate Space for Your Herd
Before finalizing your purchase, it's essential to understand the size and zoning regulations that govern livestock operations in Iowa. Consider the following points:
- Acreage Size: Determine the size of the acreage you need based on the number of goats you plan to raise and your desired level of self-sufficiency. While larger properties offer more flexibility and space for grazing, smaller parcels can still accommodate a modest goat herd with proper management practices.
- Zoning Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local zoning ordinances and regulations governing agricultural activities, including livestock keeping. Ensure that the property you choose is zoned for agricultural use and permits the raising of goats. Pay attention to any restrictions on lot size, setbacks, or maximum animal densities that may apply to your desired location.
- Neighborhood Considerations: Consider the proximity of neighboring properties and any potential conflicts that may arise from your goat farming activities. Be respectful of neighboring land uses and ensure that your operation complies with noise, odor, and nuisance regulations to maintain positive relationships within the community.
4. Can I have a goat in Des Moines?
When it comes to raising goats within Des Moines city limits, you are currently limited to three pygmy goats. However, if you're looking at a property downtown, in Waterbury, Beaverdale or one of the South of Grand homes for sale in Des Moines you'll want to read up on all the current local laws ahead of time. Most of the regulations are similar to those of raising chickens in Iowa and exist in Section 18 of the City of Des Moines municipal code.
Part 2: The Art of Raising Goats
1. Housing and Shelter
Provide adequate housing and shelter for your goats to protect them from the elements and predators. Depending on the climate, you may need to invest in a barn, shed, or sturdy fencing.
2. Choosing the Right Breeds
Select goat breeds that are well-suited to your climate and intended use. Popular breeds for dairy production include Nubian, Saanen, and Alpine, while Boer goats are favored for meat production. The American Goat Foundation has a thorough page where they discuss the characteristics of all goat breeds.
3. Nutrition and Feeding
Ensure your goats have access to a balanced diet consisting of pasture, hay, grains, and minerals. Supplement their diet as needed, and provide fresh water at all times.
4. Health Care and Disease Management
Establish a regular health care routine for your goats, including vaccinations, deworming, and hoof trimming. Monitor their health closely and consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Part 3: From Farm to Table: Utilizing Goat Products
1. Milk and Dairy Products
If you're raising dairy goats, learn how to milk them and process the milk into various dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, and soap. Share your homemade goodies with friends and family or consider selling them locally.
2. Meat Production
For meat-producing goats, develop a plan for processing and selling meat to local markets or consumers. Explore value-added products such as goat sausages or jerky to expand your product offerings.
3. Fiber and Other Uses
Certain goat breeds, such as Angoras and Cashmeres, produce high-quality fiber that can be spun into yarn or used for crafting. Additionally, goats can be trained for pack or brush-clearing purposes, offering additional opportunities for income or land management.
Embarking on the life changing journey of buying acreage in Iowa and raising goats can be incredibly rewarding. By following the steps I've outlined in this guide, you can create a sustainable homestead that provides you with fresh dairy products, meat, fiber, and/or companionship. Not quite sure? You may want to look at Agrihood homes for sale in Iowa to begin with where there are goats a working farm as the centerpiece of the community. Whether that sounds more your speed or you're ready to move to rural Iowa and begin your private homestead search, reach out to me at the bottom of the page to start your adventure today and experience the joys of goat farming in Iowa.
