Whether you run a big farm or a small one, having a functioning tractor can be invaluable. Unfortunately, as with anything that has an engine, occasionally it breaks down. You can hire a mechanic to come out to your farm and repair it, or you can pay to have your tractor towed to a repair […]

I’m getting excited for spring, as we’re about to start hatching season here at Pleasant Valley Farm! Each spring, the poultry help to provide a boost to our income at a time when there are plenty of expenses on the farm. And while I’ve been making a modest income for quite a few years now, […]

Angora goats produce a fiber called Mohair. It is one of the warmest natural fibers in the world. Mohair is not to be confused with Angora which comes from Rabbits of the same region of Ankara, Turkey.   Turning mohair into a finished, usable product takes about 7 steps. Luckily, the fiber is sellable in […]

Basic Facts About Raising Angora Goats   When I was a girl, I was fascinated with the process of spinning yarn. I’m not exactly sure where the notion came to me. I faintly remember watching a children’s program that showed the process, maybe Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood?   I remember taking the dog’s 2 slicker combs […]

One of the great things about making a living on your homestead is earning an income doing things you love. But there are some things to keep in mind to successfully transition from hobby to work. If you want your hobby to be a successful business venture, you need to treat it as a business! […]

Growing and selling produce in a Farmer’s Market seems to have become all the rage. As more and more people look to add non-GMO, pesticide-free fruits and vegetables to their table, local markets have blossomed. The growth is not found solely in big cities but is also in high demand in rural America. Customers want […]

If you have lots of extra goat milk, and you’re tired of just feeding it to your pigs and chickens, what can you do with it that would also bring in a little extra income? Most people immediately think of selling milk, ice cream, yogurt, or cheese, but those types of businesses require a big […]

As a professional farmer or rancher, your attention gets pulled in multiple directions on a constant basis. The self-sufficient life you have chosen for yourself and your family demands daily maintenance and perseverance. The work needed to maintain your buildings will wear down the equipment you utilize. Whether it’s the tractor or tilling machine you […]

Email newsletters are a great way to keep in touch with your customers and let them know what is in season on your homestead. It’s a great way to highlight new products, important dates (like first or last market days of the season) or share exciting news about what is going on at your homestead […]