Wyoming Grass Fed Meats

I have had a lot of  inquiries about raw milk and milk cow shares and may be able to offer a cow boarding service soon.

Wyoming does not permit raw milk to be sold. Dairy regulations forbid consumers their right to purchase raw milk in stores or directly from farmers.

In a cow share agreement, you would pay for a share of the cow and then pay a monthly fee for boarding your cow, (or share of a cow), caring for your cow and milking your share of the cow herd. The cow share owner then obtains (but does not purchase) the milk from his own cow share. This arrangement is similar to arrangements of owning a share in a racehorse or a bull.

Sources for more information about raw milk. Link will open in new window.

Real Milk

A Campaign for Real Milk

A source of pros and cons of raw milk: Heritage Dairy

Weston A. Price Foundation

Fresh, Honest, Local Milk: Not 3-5 days old when you get it, not corporate owned, and definitely not shipped in from 3 states away! At EZ Rocking Ranch, you will be able to see your cows that produce your milk, the barn they’re milked in, the feed they’re fed, and how they are cared for.

FAQ

1. How would a cowshare program be set up?

You make a one-time payment of $50 (this amount might change) to buy a share in a cow and/or a cow herd.  From that point on you actually own a share of that cow. In addition, you pay a $35(pending) boarding fee each month for the feeding, milking and care of your cow. Your share would entitle you to about one gallon of milk each week. You may buy as many shares as you would like.

2. Are cow shares legal?

Yes, they are. It is not legal in this state to sell raw (unpasteurized) milk to the public. However, you may use as much raw milk as you wish from your own cow. Since you own a share in your cows, you may legally use the milk from your share in any way you see fit.


3. How should I handle the milk that is supplied to me?

The milk supplied will be raw--that is, it is not heat-treated or pasteurized. It will be chilled; and you should take care that it remains so until you can get it home and into your refrigerator. If you have some distance to drive or stops to make before you arrive home, it is imperative that you make provision with insulated containers and ice or chillers to keep the milk at refrigerator temperature until you return home. Milk should be kept in a refrigerator set at 35 degrees. It should not be left out for long periods at meal times. Many so called experts advise that milk should be pasteurized, however since you own the cow (shared) and thus you own the milk from your share, you may use as you see fit.

4. How do I get my milk each week?

For those who wish to come to the ranch to pick up their milk, a mutually agreed upon day and time will be assigned. We might also have a drop sites.  Probably the best solution would be to form groups and take turns to come to the ranch and pick up your groups milk.

5. What is the milk stored in?

The shareholder would pay a one-time fee of $15(pending) for the purchase of jars and lids. The shareholder is responsible for cleaning, sanitizing, and returning their jars for refilling.

6. What kind of cows would be used.

The cows would be Jerseys, Brown Swiss or other breeds known for excellent milk with high butterfat content.

8. What will the cows eat?

The most important part of their diet is the pasture grass on which they graze themselves all day (and, in the winter, high quality hay). High quality forage produces the very best milk. Note that the pastures are organic, no pesticides,  artificial fertilizers are used. While being milked, the cows eat a grain/alfalfa supplement.

9. How much milk do the cows give?

In contrast to more typical dairy breeds, Jersey and Brown Swiss cows give a smaller amount of milk which is higher in butterfat. I expect each cows to give  about three gallons each, per day. Please note that milk production varies with the season, the weather, the quality of the forage available; and the normal curve of the cow's lactation cycle.

10. Will the births of the calves have an impact on milk supply available to cowshare owners?

Yes, they might. During the final 6-8 weeks of a cow's pregnancy, she should be allowed to be "dry" (not being milked) because she is putting so much of her body's resources into growing the calf. During the calving season, there may well be times when we cannot supply you with milk in the normal amounts or on the usual schedule. We will do our very best to supply you then; and ask your understanding and cooperation.

Tell Us What You Think

Please answer a few questions in the short survey below. There is no obligation to purchase milk cow shares and shares may or may not be offered in the future. If you submit the form below, you will receive more information IF milk cow shares are offered.