Does' Leap LLC
Farm Overview
Certified Organic:
CSA:
Farm Stand:
Farm Type:
Dairy
Farm background, farming experience, philosophy, goals and interests
My wife Kristand and I, along with our 2 children, have been farming here for 14 years.
Farm operation
Does’ Leap is an innovative, diversified organic farm specializing in a variety of fresh and aged goat cheeses. In an effort toward greater sustainability and self-reliance, much of our farm work - including plowing, harrowing, spreading manure, and firewood collection - is accomplished with two draft horses. The farm is located in northern Vermont in the heart of the beautiful green mountains with close proximity to Lake Champlain. Our goats and other livestock have the luxury of feeding on the wild vegetation of our region as they spend all but the winter months outside. We are one of the few goat dairies in the country that rely on a mixture of pasture and browse as the primary feed source for our goats and have conducted a 2 year, USDA-funded study on this farming practice. As a result or our reliance on browse and grass, our cheeses are of exceptionally high quality and take on the flavor of our varied vegetation and Vermont’s changing seasons. We believe in a diversified farm ecosystem where each aspect of our farm complements the other.
Farm physical setting and community
Our farm is located in Bakersfield and is comprised of 155 acres - 40 acres of open land with the balance in forest land.
Are all crops and animals raised organically? If not, to what degree are organic methods used on the farm?
All are raised organically.
Current Opportunities
Work Type:
Farm Worker
Number of apprentices needed:
0
Number of workers needed:
1
Work Period:
We are looking for someone to work in our small farmstead cheese facility. Work includes every aspect of cheesemaking on a variety of aged and fresh goat cheeses. Housing (pictured) includes a 4 bedroom cape on our 155 acre farm. Opportunities for personal farm ventures possible. We are looking for a 1 year commitment minimum.
Work expectations
The work will involve every aspect of making cheese from pasteurizing to aging. This includes loading the cheese vat with milk, ladling curd, packaging, washing dishes, etc.
Work Week and Wages
92 hours labor in exchange for a beautiful 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom cape house (pictured). House is very well insulated. Firewood provided.
Stipend Available:
Yes
Wage to be determined:
Wage based on experience:
Trial Period Information:
There is no trial period.
Apprentice Benefits and Learning
Room & Board Benefits:
Room
Beautiful 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom cape house (pictured) in country setting. Free rent in exchange for 92 hours/month labor.