You can purchase a share for $30.00
(undivided interest) in a cow. It is a one time cost. When you leave the cow
share, you sell your share back to us and get your $30 back (less any
outstanding balances owed). One cow share entitles you to about 1 gallon of
milk a week. If you need more than one gallon a week ,then you will need to
buy more shares. The boarding fee pays for labor and the expenses involved
in feeding and caring for your share of the cow. Costs may be subject to
increase. The boarding fee cost is currently $32 per month per share. The
first monthly boarding fee will be prorated depending on when you purchase
your share(s). Billing is the 20th if each month.
What are the cows fed?
The cows always have access to grass
pasture on our 60+ acres. Their primary feed source is premium alfalfa hay,
with a minimum amount of grain at milking time. The grain ration is our own
special mix, which contains no soy or cottonseed.
Why do you feed grain? I've
heard grass-only is better...
We have researched this topic quite
thoroughly. Although the cows don't produce huge quantities of milk, they
truly need the grain for the extra energy necessary for milk production.
Period. Without it, they become quite skinny, even with free access to
hay/grass. This leads to stress on their bodies, which in turn leads to
lowered immune systems. And all of this leads to...multiple issues. Cows
with lowered immune systems are more susceptible to mastitis (infection of
the udder), respiratory infections , and hoof problems. I await someone that
can show me a strong, healthy cow that is completely grain free.
Do you ever use
hormones?
Absolutely NOT.
Are Antibiotics used?
Antibiotics will be used as a last
resort and never given as a preventative measure. The milk will not be
used if antibiotics are given, until the hold off period is over. Our
preferred method of treatment is homeopathic/herbal treatment.
That said, the norm at the farm is happy,
healthy, low stressed cows. Perfect.
Is the milk tested?
Yes. In accordance with RMAC standards, we
test our milk on a monthly basis. You can look under "Testing" on our site
for results.
Are the cows tested for
Bovine Tuberculosis, Brucellosis, and Johnes?
Yes. Colorado is certified free for
Bovine TB and Brucellosis. Cows will be tested when added to the herd,
and in accordance with RMAC standards.
How is the milk collected and stored?
This is really just a brief description-we have designed a facility for
milking/processing the milk which is easier to explain in person, during a
tour. RMAC has set standards for each farm; Isle Farms meets or exceeds all
standards set in place for producing milk.
The cow is milked twice a day by machine,
closed system. Before each milking, all equipment is sanitized . After a
thorough washing of the udder and teats, the area is dried with a clean
cloth. The milker is attached, and milk extracted. The milk is then taken to
the milk room (completely separate facility from the barn/milking area)
where it is jarred. The jars are placed in an ice bath for rapid cooling and
then stored at 35 degrees. Finally, all milking equipment is cleaned with a
dairy detergent in dishwashers, and readied for sanitization next milking.
How long does a cow
produce milk?
A cow begins to produce milk after birthing. She is normally milked for 300
days and then dried up for 65 days prior to giving birth again. This coming
year (2007 into 2008) we are trying for a 'no dry' period. Our hope is that
by breeding each cow in a different month, the process will be something
like "one cow goes dry, another comes online for milking". There may be a
short time between cows dry/birthing that milk is not available. Please
remember-you are not buying milk, but rather paying for feed/care of your
share of your cow, so boarding is still due, notwithstanding milk
availability.
How long will my milk
stay fresh?
If kept properly at 35 degrees F, your milk should be good for 2 weeks. Any
time spent above 35 degrees F, the quality of the milk will decrease. Our
milk room has an ice machine for shareholders use- please utilize it!
