Holy Cow
Moo
Did you know that you can buy a share in a dairy cow? It sounded crazy to me, too!! But, I was too intrigued NOT to research this concept, especially considering all the rage on organic vs processed foods.
So, what is a cow share? It’s just that – part ownership of a cow. Typically, dairy farmers sell shares based on the milk production of a given cow or herd. So, one share will equal approximately one gallon of fresh, non-pasteurized (raw) milk. Who buys cow shares? Anyone who is interested in the natural benefits that raw milk offers, when purchased from Dairy Farmers who do NOT use hormones, pesticides, antibiotics or other potentially harmful substances that may be passed through to the milk. And in many states, it is illegal to buy or sell raw milk, however, it is not against the law to drink fresh milk from a cow that you OWN. Hence, the cow share programs were conceived.
How does it work? You research and locate a cow share program in your area by visiting www.realmilk.com or www.westonaprice.org. Dairies that offer cow share programs generally sell you a share(s) for a one-time fee, ranging from $25-$60 per share, which many times is recouped when you “sell” your share. An additional “boarding fee” is charged per month, as the farmer is obligated to feed, milk, and care for your cow (which is totally worth the money, since you won’t have to wake up at 4 am to milk the cow yourself). Again, one share entitles you to about one gallon of milk a week. The added bonus—the milk, many times, comes with several inches of cream on top. This can be shaken into the milk for added creaminess or skimmed off the top and used to make butter, sour cream, yogurt, cheese, etc.
Remember, you are not purchasing the milk or other dairy products from the farmer, they are yours, compliments of your very own cow!
(1 votes, average: 5 out of 5)
Loading ...Discussion
4 comments for “Holy Cow”
Post a comment
Related Posts
Recipes
Browse Blog
Interesting concept! I wonder…then do they deliver the milk every week to your doorstep? I wouldn’t have to go to the grocery store near as often if I had my milk delivered!
It depends. Most of the smaller dairy farms that I read about expect you to pick it up OR there’s other “shareholders” that will deliver to those that live in the same area. If you are looking for delivery options, you may pay a little more in the monthly “boarding” fee. Also, the cost typically comes out to be about $5/gallon, but remember you get the cream too. AND a lot of the dairies will share their homemade recipe for dairy products. Butter only takes 8 minutes and a blender to make!! All things I did not know!!
I checked out our local cow share farm and it does seem interesting. I would need to do a little more research and taste test. In our area, it would cost $32/month for boarding fees and you get one gallon a week, which is about $8 per gallon! Sounds like a lot, but still worth investigating. Our local farm also offers hormone free meat. Thanks for the info Jordan! If you are in the Colorado Springs area check out this site: http://www.islefarms.com/
We also have a local milk distribution company in Colorado called “Royal Crest Dairy”. They deliver fresh all-natural milk to your doorstep every week. They also have other major grocery items such as; cheese, bread, sour cream and such to fill your order if you shall need them. Each week you fill out your order form and leave in your dairy box on your front porch, they fill your order and charge you each month for the total. This option allows you to get all natural milk and not have to run to the grocery store when you just need a couple staple items. They are a little more expensive, but you don’t end up spending money on items you really didn’t need either! AND you get ALL NATURAL milk for your family! Check them out!
http://www.royalcrestdairy.com