Randy and Mary Orbeck

City: Paynesville  - Number of Goats: 99
Randy Orbeck, along with his wife Mary and their 7 children run a small goat farm operation on their hobby farm near St. Martin.  The family includes 5 boys and 2 girls, Adam, 16; Aaron, 12; Grace, 10; Ben, 7; Maria, 5; John, 3; and Clarence 1.  A few years ago the Orbeck family started looking into establishing a farming enterprise that they could all work on together.  An enterprise involving goats was the best option.  In early 2006 the Orbeck’s decided to build a barn and milking parlor for the goat herd.  In May of 2006 they started building the barn and in July of 2006 the goats arrived.  One challenge was finding the goats, since there aren’t many goat farms in the state of Minnesota, the Orbeck’s had to buy their goats from out of state. 

One big challenges for the Orbeck’s is exploding feed costs.  Hay and feed costs have doubled.  Also, herd health has been a larger of an issue than expected.  When asked about challenges, Mary said, “There are many challenges.  They include maintaining good herd health, making sure someone can do the milking and feeding, preparing for kidding, and deciding what to do with the kidds that won't be used in the herd.”

The family members taking turns doing the chores.  The Orbeck’s two oldest sons Adam and Aaron can milk by themselves, while Grace is a good milking assistant, and Ben a helpful feeding assistant.  Mary is a full time homemaker and home school teacher for her children, while Randy works full time with his father-in-law in a business that runs mail routes.   “This is truly a family operation, everyone contributes.  We have all learned so much.  Despite all the difficulties, it has been a good decision for our family,” says Mary.