Field Day at Does' Leap Farm

Does’ Leap is a diversified and innovative farm specializing in a variety of fresh and aged certified organic goat cheeses, as well as pastured, whey-fed pork. Farmers Kristan and George believe in building a resilient farm ecosystem where each element supports and enhances the others—creating a system that becomes more vibrant and sustainable over time. At Does’ Leap, they've experimented with a range of land management techniques including manure applications, organic amendments, virtual fencing collars, and ripsowing through participation in various programs, grants, and as active members of the Land Care Cooperative. 

With funding from the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC) and the Agritech Institute for Small Farms, Does' Leap piloted NoFence virtual fencing collars for dairy goats in July 2024. We will look at how this system has worked for them, how it has changed their grazing management, and how they are incorporating and cultivating more alternative tall forb and browse species as a result of this technology.

Additionally, for the past three years, they’ve been active participants in the Farmer Soil Health Innovator Network (FSHIN)—a collaboration of farmers and professionals supported by the USDA Vermont NRCS Conservation Innovation Grant. The network empowers farmers to use their knowledge and experience to develop effective strategies for improving soil health. At this field day, we’ll present results on the impacts of these practices on soil health, yield, and forage quality.

We are committed to making this event as accessible as possible. If you have any questions or require an accommodation or service to participate, please contact Orenna Brand (orenna@franklincountynrcd.org, 802-752-9633).