City Farm Austin

About the people: I've been a member of this herd-share for a month now, and it's been a great experience--Paula's been great about working with my schedule for milking times and teaching me everything I need to know to be comfortable and proficient when milking--and I didn't have any experience to start. She's also always gone out of her way to ensure that each shareholder feels like a valued member of the community--I've never felt like my input has been ignored, and I've always been kept up-to-date with changes happening around the farm. She's very proactive.

About the animals: Milking has totally become my "zen" time, and I love it. The animals are well-fed and well-kept, with clean living spaces and milking area.There are 4 adult goats, and records for milk-production tracking.

About the milk: Delicious.

Thoughts on cost: Full disclosure--The amount of milk you get, for the monthly share price, may not seem cost-effective if you compare to cow's milk. However, I've found that my costs (I have a full share) are comparable to or cheaper than what I'd pay to buy goat milk in-store, or cow's milk from a local, organic, ethical dairy...and I get all this knowledge and experience with my purchase, as well as knowing EXACTLY how the animals were treated, and milk obtained. It's well worth the cost.

In my opinion, this is one of the best local-food deals in the Austin area.