Our family is setting up a new homestead on several acres of land in Surry County, NC - near Mount Airy.

I am looking for dairy and meat goats, feeder pigs, and poultry. We don't know many local breeders / producers and need help locating livestock at reasonable prices. We are willing to pick the animals up anywhere in North Western North Carolina and South Western Virginia.

If you have goats, pigs, or poultry (and any necessary equipment) that you want to get rid of, or can put me in contact with someone that does - please email me.

I appreciate your help!

Will

-- Will Branch (will_branch@rjia.net), June 28, 2001

Answers

Will, I don't live anywhere near you but I have just found a free or very cheap way to get feeder pigs. Find a good size hog operation near you. There should be some in the country with 10 sows or more. Ask them about their runts. One farm near us gives them away, another charges $10.00 each.They are small and have been weaned at about 5 - 10 days old so they do need some extra care but they grow up to make wonderful feeders. We have even saved some of the nicer gilts for breeding. You could also check your county extension or 4-H office. Get names of people who raise show pigs. They will also sell non show quality and runts cheaply. Good luck, Joanie

-- Joanie (ber-gust@prodigy.net), June 28, 2001.

Hi Will, Two other sources are the area vet and feed store. You could put up a sign at the feed store asking for the same help and usually someone will call with what you need. Stay away from the auction houses. I started out that way and got many sick animals that looked okay but if they are in with the sick. I should also say that I did get alot of good animals there too so....I think it's a matter of knowing there.

-- Dee (gdgtur@goes.com), June 29, 2001.

Hi,

We used to live in south central VA. We raise alpines and show as well. I met several folks in the area who may be able to help. But let me begin with this first. My dear friend and goat mentor Bonnie Kempe has after 30 yrs decided to sell out. if you are looking for some really nice goats then e-mail her, its bayview@intrepid.net I also have another friend near to you who needs to cut back. If you are interested let me know. Also,,,, i have the adga directory and can send you names and numbers of folks near you. Have you decided upon a breed? Hope this helps.

Bernice

-- Bernice (geminigoats@yahoo.com), June 29, 2001.