We purchased the 86 acre property in 2003 and have spent the last 10 years planting and developing the vineyard, building or remodeling goat structures and in general deeply enjoying the benefits of this land.
When we first arrived at this acreage, we were impressed by the diverse types of land and vegetation represented here. There were wetlands populated by ducks, geese, fish, frogs and numerous other creatures. There were open farmed spaces with fertile land that was used for seed crops. There were open meadows that had been used for grazing as well as tall stands of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and Oregon white oak (Quercas garryana) along with some areas of dense brush. We chose to enjoy much of it just as it was when we arrived; to preserve that which is indigenous to the area and is very characteristic of the Willamette Valley. Where invasive plants or animals have moved in, we chose to use gentle means of eradication such as goats in the elimination of the Himalayan blackberries. We have also chosen to grow crops and raise animals suited for this area using sustainable methods to keep the site healthy.
During the summer of 2004 we bought our first Toggenburg goats. Their job at the time was to finish off the Himalayan Blackberries that we mowed down on a number of acres. They have done a fantastic job and we now have lush green pastures where blackberries once stood.
Read more about our Dairy goats:We planted our first acre of grapes during the winter of 2005. With the help of family and friends we hosted the first of many planting parties! Greg and Kristina laid out the plant locations and pre-drilled the holes then invited friends and family to help plant the grapes. Afterwards we had a potluck style meal and tried out some of the local wines. The party was such a success that we have continued the tradition with each of our subsequent plantings, and now have seven and a half acres of vineyard.
Read more about our Vineyard:This property also once boasted a 1950’s vintage cow dairy.. This little run down cement building started the idea of a goat dairy. For several years we slowly worked on remodeling the old building and added on to both ends. We now have a building that is Grade “A” certifiable and very functional as a small dairy and processing facility. In 2011 we made soft fresh cheese and marketed it locally. In 2012 we sold milk to another cheese maker. In 2013 we started making yogurt for the pet food industry and continue to do that today
Read more about our Goat Dairy: