Chicken Bacon Ranch Farmstead, located in Eland, Wisconsin, is owned and operated by Ashley and Christopher Voelz, along with their three children: Clayton, Claire, and Harper. The small, family-run farm specializes in raising ABGA registered Boer goats, market hogs, produce, and specialty cut flowers.
In addition to the diverse range of products and animals raised on the farm, Chicken Bacon Ranch Farmstead is heavily involved in agritourism. The farm hosts several on farm events each year. “With greater generations removed from the farm, transparency in animal agriculture and education have never been more vital,” says Ashley, “Visitors can get a glimpse of life on the farm and ask questions about our stewardship, animals, and products.”
Wisconsin's harsh winter weather can be challenging for Chicken Bacon Ranch, so the farm utilizes barn cameras, heat barrels, and deep bedded straw in their barns to ensure a successful kidding season, cater to their market of show animals, ethnic holidays, and to avoid frostbite and respiratory illness the cold conditions may cause to their young animals. The Voelz’ also have two heated areas in their barn that they use for their does and kids in emergency situations.
Animal health and nutrition are the top priorities for Chicken Bacon Ranch Farmstead. They work closely with their vet and feed mill to create a custom plan for their farm and keep records of all vaccinations, health events, and weight checks for every goat. This information helps them make better decisions on management, feeding, and genetics, and provides buyers with an animal's history.
Ashley's job as an animal nutritionist led her to become interested in the Boer breed. She and Christopher bought their first registered stock in 2019 after seeing their fast growth potential, marketability, and gentle disposition while consulting on a farm. Since then, they have been continually improving their herd of 30 breeding does and bucks.
Earlier this fall, their son Clayton received the Boer Goat Nation Youth Scholarship, which they used to purchase two doelings to expand Clayton's goat project. This not only brought in different genetics to utilize, but also created many friendships and fueled a young man’s dream.
Ashley and Christopher's advice for those beginning in this industry is to be intentional with their goals and adjust them as they go along. “Progress is never static, and evolving plans are part of the process.” They also recommend finding successful mentors, veterinarians, and nutritionists, as well as buying good stock. Lastly, they emphasize the importance of animal health and nutrition, keeping meticulous records, and testing annually for diseases to make better decisions on management, feeding, and genetics.
Visit Chicken Bacon Ranch Farmstead at: chickenbaconranchfarmstead.squarespace.com
