Small Organic Dairy in USA: Tour and Licensing

After 12 long years of planning, two years of raising dairy cows, and almost a year building the dairy barn, we finally are a fully licensed Organic dairy in Washington State! It felt so good to put milk from our cows in the bulk milk tank knowing we would bottle and sell it next week. Thank you so much to our mentors, family and friends for all their support and guidance. Now we are moving to the next phase of operation and sales! Stay tuned!
Music iMovie Riverwalk

Пікірлер: 278

  • @fasx56
    @fasx564 жыл бұрын

    The people that are commenting on your channel wrote some of the most intelligent and kind words that I have seen on any post on You Tube. Many people identify with you because they are in a similar business and recognize the tremendous effort you put into to get where you are today. Stay healthy and I wish you all the success you deserve.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Yes, we are blessed to have so much support from our community on YT. When we look, and see people commenting from all over the world, it just reminds you how small the world really is, and that we’re all in this together.

  • @davidj.mackinney6568
    @davidj.mackinney65684 жыл бұрын

    I had no doubts. Congratulations. You are very detailed and careful people. Waiting for a chicken report.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Chickens are... well, Chickens! First group should be starting to lay soon!

  • @ronaldwang8119
    @ronaldwang81194 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations from all of us here at Otter Creek Valley Farm Eau Claire Wisconsin USA! Your dairy is the perfect example of the American dairyman can do attitude. Your attention to detail, the thought process of your plans and design , the desire to succeed as a team all speak volumes of your hard work. Excellent job 👍 your dairy farmers now,!!!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your support! We always appreciate your comments! More to videos to come, so stay tuned!

  • @sandyrees490
    @sandyrees4904 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations!!!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @macfarms
    @macfarms4 жыл бұрын

    It sure is a nice little setup. Congrats on getting your licensing!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @waynehawke1820
    @waynehawke18204 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations very exciting!!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @dougdickey7381
    @dougdickey73814 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations! I'm glad you share your journey with videos. There are a lot of hoops to jump thru to be a dairy producer for sure. They seems to be a few less for Pennsylvania for direct farm businesses, I'm sure the amount of amish here helped contribute to that, but there are still several agencies to deal with. Side note though, you can sell raw milk here in Pennsylvania (though we probably won't)

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    You can sell raw milk in Washington State as well, but we chose to pasteurize as we feel it’s a better market for us. There are several raw milk dairies around us, but no small dairies doing pasteurized milk in glass bottles, so that’s the direction we went! And yes, there are a lot of hoops to jump through, but honestly, all the regulations are pretty common sense things. Thanks for watching!

  • @dougdickey7381

    @dougdickey7381

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@vnthomas16 I didn't know that Washington state allowed raw milk sales. We were going to pasteurize as well as we feel its safer and since we wanted to primarily do cheese and butter then if we do a soft cheese ot would have to be pasteurized. Raw milk cheeses have to be aged a minimum of 60 days here I believe.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Yes, in fact, you can buy raw milk in the Supermarkets here. With pasteurizing, it was certainly easier (and cheaper) to find somebody to underwrite our product liability insurance as well.

  • @toma5153

    @toma5153

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@vnthomas16 Glad you have a good attitude about the regulations, process controls and licensing. Too many people parrot complaints about excessive government regulations. But here there is an important reason - keep people from getting sick!

  • @KeithFinkFamilyFarm
    @KeithFinkFamilyFarm4 жыл бұрын

    Loved it! Beautiful facility. Next video - marketing! Yep, make sure the tank drain is closed before you start milking. I think we've all made that mistake a time or two over the years. Nothing more disheartening to come into the milk house and find you've just run all of the evening milking out the bulk tank and down the drain...Have dumped the pipeline wash into the tank a time or two as well...that means the whole thing gets to hit the drain. Loved the photo @ 18:38 Keith-

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    The valve was closed and the cap was tight! Haha! We always appreciate your comments and enjoy your videos too. Glad you’re along on our journey with us!

  • @douglassmith6448
    @douglassmith64484 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations you two

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @IcamanSogge
    @IcamanSogge4 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations so nice too keep the dairy industry going.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    We’re just trying to do our part! Thanks for your support!

  • @rustyvt4470
    @rustyvt44704 жыл бұрын

    Small is beautiful! I LOVED that yellow Jersey milk being stirred in that classic tank. Wish we lived closer so we could taste it! Congratulations and whew! As if the farming part of farming wasn't enough, you're carpenters, electricians, painters, plumbers, engineers, janitors, administrative staff and (no insult intended) lawyers too!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! Small is beautiful. We want to increase our herd a couple cows, but have no aspirations to become “big”. I don’t think a company’s size is a measure of its success.

  • @terrywagner7551

    @terrywagner7551

    3 жыл бұрын

    RustyVT Congratulations for a job well done 👍. I grew up on dairy farms the late 40s, 50s 60s my Dad sold out in 69. I have never seen a bulk tank that small. Good Luck

  • @jeannel1065
    @jeannel10654 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations. Nice to see your progress.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @Rosie-xi5sz
    @Rosie-xi5sz4 жыл бұрын

    Woohoo!! Congratulations!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @hallidayacres1245
    @hallidayacres12454 жыл бұрын

    Is the milk parlor a 1 or 2 stall parlor I couldn't tell - next time do the Happy dance with your wife don't leave her hang in like that! Your dairy is awesome you guys have done a fantastic job!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    It is a two-stall parlor. We love it! It makes milking so enjoyable! I think it is best for all, viewers included, that I refrain from dancing! Haha! Thanks for your support and thanks for watching!

  • @stevemccoy8138
    @stevemccoy81384 жыл бұрын

    Hi Guys , I'm so happy for you Thanks for the tour.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    You’re welcome! Thanks for watching!

  • @beirnefarm8988
    @beirnefarm89883 жыл бұрын

    I’ve been watching you two for quite some time. The amount of work that you put into this is unbelievable. Starting from almost nothing to where you are today. You should be very proud of your accomplishments. I’m 60+ and I’m now just starting farming after 30 years of military, but I’m too old to start up a dairy despite being raised on a dairy farm. I see there’s a lot of haters out there they’re either just ignorant or living in their own fantasy world. You two are doing a wonderful job. And you have such a supportive wife. God bless the two of you.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your kind comments! We really appreciate them!

  • @donaldgibson3121
    @donaldgibson31214 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for sharing your journey to become dairy farmers with us. We love your videos and wish you success in your new business adventure.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you very much! Glad you enjoy them and we appreciate your support!

  • @donaldmack7213
    @donaldmack72134 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations ! Wishing you the best of luck! Please keep more videos coming!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Stay tuned!

  • @bjornneerhof2055
    @bjornneerhof20554 жыл бұрын

    Gongratulations. I'm waiting for the hay trolley video and also for the first cut of hay video if you gonna publish them

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    We’re waiting for sun so we can cut some hay! It’s been so wet! Looks like the weather will be turning around for us soon! Stay tuned, because there will definitely be a hay trolley video!

  • @enjoyingretirement4846
    @enjoyingretirement48464 жыл бұрын

    You guys should be so proud. Watched you from the start and all that work is now paying off. Awesome job.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @michaelcorning4857
    @michaelcorning48574 жыл бұрын

    Awesome you guys congrats on your dream come true

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @ritaparker2137
    @ritaparker21373 жыл бұрын

    You two are awesome. They sure make you jump through the hoops just to make a natural wholesome product. Congratulations and many blessings to you.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your supportive comments!

  • @glendonmorgan7253
    @glendonmorgan72534 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations!!!!!!!!! I'm thrilled for you. Dairy is my passion too.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! We love dairying! It’s so rewarding to be milking our own cows on our own place, but I am so grateful to all our mentors for whom I milked their cows on their places. We wouldn’t be where we are without them!

  • @glendonmorgan7253

    @glendonmorgan7253

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@vnthomas16 I got bit by the dairy bug working a commercial dairy at 16 and I am bound and determined to at least milk my own cow a la homestead. I'm now at 34 in the works of buying my family farm now. 25 acres just north of Indianapolis. I'm hoping to turn it back into a profitable working farmstead. I'm thinking about a small herd of grass fed American Milking Devon and milk a few as a hobby/maybe an enterprise. If I hit the lottery I'd turn my farm into exactly what you guys are doing (I love Jerseys!!!! Sassy cows). I'm so excited to see people in organic and regenerative agriculture doing well. America needs it's small farms back! Dairy cows should have names! Good vibes from Indiana!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Wishing you the best! We need more small farms!

  • @joenoe7885
    @joenoe78854 жыл бұрын

    Congrats to both of you..the farm is spotless,,, shows you care and love the animals....you both came along way,, best wishes for the many months and years ahead for you both...

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your kind words!

  • @mickoostingh5777

    @mickoostingh5777

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@aaronmerkel5216 why is dairy farming dead

  • @andrewopoku5019

    @andrewopoku5019

    3 жыл бұрын

    I would love to visit your farm to learn more about diary farming

  • @ericrudgers6816

    @ericrudgers6816

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@aaronmerkel5216 lmao sounds like you’re living in a fantasy world

  • @PilotMcbride
    @PilotMcbride4 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations!!! Well done, long road, but you made it easily. Inspectors are not bad people, they are a source of information and assistance if approached properly. I little while back I helped a friend set up his business which involved multiple inspectors from 3 levels of government - local, state and federal. To be honest, we pestered them, asking questions, asking for quick face to face meetings etc. One inspector said it was a pleasure to come and chat and see our progress, offering over the top advice and having coffee with us. We were told that some people insisted on arguing over silly points, whereas my friend would listen and act on their advice. For final clearance, one inspector even asked if he was really required because we had acted on all his advice. "Only if you want coffee" was our response, he turned up, quick run around, all good. Some people don't realize that they are on your side, as long as you follow the rules set down by years of experience. Shortcuts are a no no. Congrats again, well done, you deserve the rewards. 👏👏 👋👋 🇦🇺

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for the support! Yeah, once in a while we run into a bad apple, but for the most part it’s all good!

  • @larrycroft470
    @larrycroft4704 жыл бұрын

    Y'all have worked SO VERY hard for this!! I have enjoyed following your beautiful dairy farm through it's delvelopment. I just wish I could get over to beautiful eastern Washington so I could taste some of your beautiful herds milk and products!!!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your kind words of encouragement!

  • @georgerydberg4393
    @georgerydberg43934 жыл бұрын

    There was no doubt in my mind that you would pass all tests. Two very intelligent people, congratulations!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! We were confident, but it is still nerve wracking!

  • @bucsr.6106
    @bucsr.61064 жыл бұрын

    I’m doing the happy dance with you! Your wide smiles say it all-CONGRATULATIONS! 🎉Most of us do not have 5-10 year goals much less actually meet them to fruition. So impressive! Love the office, tank, fridge...I can’t believe it! Woot! ♥️💜💙

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! Now Virginia isn’t alone in the happy dance! Haha!

  • @connorsmythe1595
    @connorsmythe15954 жыл бұрын

    Hey love your farm and your story. At our farm we seperate the young from the mother at young age and feed them bottles and just give the first milking of the cows colostrum to them

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    We bottle feed colostrum just to ensure that the babies get the immunities they need, but otherwise leaving the babies with their mommas is a huge labor saver and the gains are amazing. We love this system! Thanks for your support and thanks for watching!

  • @farmingforfunandprofit940
    @farmingforfunandprofit9403 жыл бұрын

    Co ngratulations......... I can remember the first time the cows arrived from Ontario and we milked them.... 2 days later the Co-Op milk truck picked up what was in the Tank..... Being involved with Dairying my whole life... I loved the experience.... but it was not to last as milk prices fell to where it was a struggle to survive......After 5 years the USDA instituted a buy out program to reduce the amount of milk produced in the country..... I got out.......I still got one Cow........ painted on the Barn

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your kind words and sharing your story!

  • @danbaker8933
    @danbaker89334 жыл бұрын

    Never seen a milk house without at least one fly in it.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    We don’t like flies, so we do our best! Haha! Thanks for watching!

  • @jennyfox1398
    @jennyfox13982 жыл бұрын

    This is my all time favorite channel. I want a small dairy with 2-4 cows and a couple goats. You guys are so wonderful for sharing the detailed ins and outs of dairy farming. Most people leave out Financials, licensing etc. Ya'll are awesome.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoy our channel! Stay tuned as there is more to come!

  • @JB-mf1zc
    @JB-mf1zc4 жыл бұрын

    You guys are awesome! I hope your business is very successful! Do ya'll ship to south Texas? Lol God Bless!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Milk probably wouldn’t ship well! Haha! But, we do have some merchandise that we will be able to ship. We need to get an online store going, so stay tuned for that!

  • @mennoreuten1563
    @mennoreuten15634 жыл бұрын

    Congrats to the both of you for having it running and now hoping that everybody loves the clovermountaindairy milk, would love to come over and try some but i quess i have to stick on my own milk for a while which btw taste excellent, thanks and the best of luck,greetings from a Dutch dairyfarmer

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Well, we appreciate your support! Thanks for watching!

  • @ajlewis9454
    @ajlewis94544 жыл бұрын

    Congrats and wishing you well.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    We appreciate that!

  • @sarahtompkins24
    @sarahtompkins244 жыл бұрын

    Good job congratulations from Chesapeake Va.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! We appreciate the support!

  • @patriciabannwarth6844
    @patriciabannwarth68444 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations...it's been a long road. Glad all the inspections went so well.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Us too! Thank you!

  • @PAfarmboy
    @PAfarmboy4 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations! It's been a long time coming but I'm sure, worth the wait. Wish I lived close enough to buy a quart.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your support!

  • @oneproudnana3315
    @oneproudnana33154 жыл бұрын

    Impressive. You've worked hard and deserve your licenses. Congratulations.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you. We appreciate your support!

  • @karencary3312
    @karencary33123 жыл бұрын

    You are so organized. I know you will do well. If I lived closer I would buy your milk.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    We appreciate that! We’re glad you can support us on KZread though!

  • @susantreibs6593
    @susantreibs65934 жыл бұрын

    Glad you passed the inspection. Nice WSU shirt, great school.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Go Cougs! Thanks for watching!

  • @zaneymay
    @zaneymay4 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations! You two have come a long way.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @KumiOriFarm
    @KumiOriFarm4 жыл бұрын

    What a huge accomplishment.!!! This is so cool. Good job!!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @sahalabdulle4501

    @sahalabdulle4501

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@vnthomas16 very nice

  • @pierrotgretillat9365
    @pierrotgretillat93654 жыл бұрын

    Salut super tank you vidéo magnifique bravo

  • @richwhitaker1506
    @richwhitaker15064 жыл бұрын

    What a great achievement. You've worked long and hard as a team to reach these goals. The herd looks healthy and happy. Thanks for sharing your story. Enjoy!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    You’re welcome! Glad to have you along!

  • @dirtroadfarm.4024
    @dirtroadfarm.40243 ай бұрын

    Awesome setup. Beautifully happy and healthy cattle.

  • @charlesthomas6210
    @charlesthomas62104 жыл бұрын

    You two are doing a awesome job. I hope everything works out and your farm prospers

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your support!

  • @JamesDedmon
    @JamesDedmon3 жыл бұрын

    Just watching random videos, congratulations on the accomplishment. The Milking system took me back to my early childhood when my parents was dairy farmers. In fact I still have cousins who still operate larger diaries on a commercial scale

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    We’re glad you stumbled upon us! Feel free to check our some of our other videos!

  • @melwallace1255
    @melwallace12554 жыл бұрын

    🥳🎉🎊CONGRATULATIONS🎊🎉🥳 Thank you for sharing your journey with the rest of us. So happy for you both!! I do have a couple of questions though. Are you able to put more than one milking in that big chiller from the 50's? Or only one milking at a time? Will you be getting a second Miller, so that you are able to utilize both milking stanchions? How far are you willing to ship your finished product??? Congratulations again, you two!!! That's a lot of licensing. Looking forward to future videos on the milking, the calves, the cows, the farming, and of course, the two of you!!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your kind words! Yes, our tank can hold multiple milkings. We are just required to empty and wash it every 72 hours. Eventually, when we get more cows, we’ll end up using both stalls. With only two cows, it’s just easier to use one stall. There was a time a couple days ago where both cows snuck through the door before I could close it, so I put one in each stall, and Buttercup just had to stand there until I was done milking Rose. We’re just planning on selling our milk locally because it’s so perishable, but we do have some Clover Mountain Dairy merchandise that we plan to sell through our website, so stay tuned!

  • @melwallace1255

    @melwallace1255

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@vnthomas16 thank you for such a quick response!! I really am happy for you both! This all must be so exciting! Do you know when you plan on getting more cows? I'm going to assume you'll be keeping any heifers born on the farm, and adding them to your heard. What is your plan for the little bull that was born on the farm? Will you make him a steer and once he's ready, send him to "freezer camp?" Or are there different plans for him as well as any additional like him born on the farm? Thank you again for sharing your journey. It brings back good memories from the farm I grew up on, even though ours was not a dairy farm. Congratulations again!! 💗💗

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Rainy is already a steer, we did that at dehorning. As far as growing our herd, it will be a slow process, since we do plan to build up from within. Hopefully our next calf is a heifer!

  • @joansmith3492
    @joansmith34924 жыл бұрын

    i will be surprised if you don't sell out the first day! no pressure.LOL

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Haha! No pressure! We hope that’s the case!

  • @gwc3721
    @gwc37213 жыл бұрын

    I got my Animal Science degree from WSU in Pullman. Great school, great state and wonderful people.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    We love WSU! Go cougs!

  • @waynemiracle8928
    @waynemiracle89284 жыл бұрын

    BIG Congratulations! It has indeed been a long road, but you are dairy farmers now! You all are a GREAT example to everyone that if you will work hard and persevere you will reach your goals! I only wish we were local so we could purchase your products!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Well, we appreciate your support here on YT... We also do have some merchandise that we can ship that we’ll be selling through our website, so stay tuned!

  • @theunconventionaldairy9092
    @theunconventionaldairy90924 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations you two! You are truly inspiring to others by showing that a dream is possible by hard work and determination to make it happen! Thank you for taking us along your journey!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    You’re welcome! Thanks for coming along!

  • @jimhuskins8506
    @jimhuskins85064 жыл бұрын

    Proud of you. You’re bucking every cultural trend by going into the dairy business, and you’re doing it in an exceptional manner. We continue to wish you every success. I’m curious to see how your cows let down when they realize that they will have access to calves after milking.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    What’s the old joke? “There’s no such thing as a good time to get into dairying”? Initially, we were worried that letdown might be an issue, but we really haven’t had any issues. There was a few days when Rose first came fresh that she was a little reluctant to let down. Usually just a little massaging on her udder would overcome it, but now there is no problem! In fact, when Rose lets down now, she just lets go and it’s a torrent the entire time until it just stops when she’s empty! Thank you for your support!

  • @jimhuskins8506

    @jimhuskins8506

    4 жыл бұрын

    Wonderful.

  • @ishaanandrew7629

    @ishaanandrew7629

    2 жыл бұрын

    I know im randomly asking but does someone know of a way to get back into an Instagram account? I stupidly lost my account password. I appreciate any tricks you can give me

  • @marckaden1564

    @marckaden1564

    2 жыл бұрын

    @Ishaan Andrew instablaster =)

  • @ishaanandrew7629

    @ishaanandrew7629

    2 жыл бұрын

    @Marc Kaden i really appreciate your reply. I got to the site thru google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff now. Seems to take quite some time so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

  • @brianfletcher7942
    @brianfletcher79424 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @wendy833
    @wendy8334 жыл бұрын

    Whoot whoot! Congratulations! I'm happy for you, and I'm sure you'll sell out of the milk at the market.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    We hope so! Thanks for the support!

  • @zippypony1
    @zippypony14 жыл бұрын

    Have you ever thought of autographing the milk bottels or bottle cap with the cows name on it , little marketing humor , could turn into collectors item for adults , kids . So happy for you two. I use to milk 8 to 12 head by hand,and pail milk with under belly pail milker , the good old days lol . Any plans for other products , cheese ,butter,ice cream ? You hiring lol ?

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    We would like to do yogurt and maybe cheese curds in the future. I don’t think we want to encourage folks to keep our bottles! Haha! We want them back! Of course, I know we won’t get them all back, but we can try! Thanks for watching!

  • @garyzehr4445
    @garyzehr44454 жыл бұрын

    CONGRATULATIONS I hope you're taking us to the farmers market!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Of course! See you there!

  • @timothyames2138
    @timothyames21383 жыл бұрын

    Love your vlogs. Hope you post more often. Beautiful farm and cows..

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoy the videos. We do that as much as time allows! Stay tuned!

  • @hereandtherehomestead2201
    @hereandtherehomestead22014 жыл бұрын

    I'm 1958 vintage too, and can only hope I look good for my age, haha. More importantly, I aspire to work well for my age. Did you notice any increase in the amount/weight of milk after separating the calves for 4 hours? I thought that the calves didn't look to desperate in the clip of them walking down the lane after milking. Would you - Virginia - be able to do all the milking/processing steps if needed? I have been thinking a lot about that lately for our farm, that I don't know how to use all the equipment (not a dairy operation) and don't know how to move the livestock and such. We need to figure out a backup plan that doesn't require my husband to be there every day (like if he is sick or something). We've been doing it this way for years but it's not smart. I love watching the cows get milked after seeing all the equipment. So complex but it all came together!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    We did get some increase after separating for four hours, but we’ve since transitioned to separating the calves at night, from about 10 until 6. There’s a definite increase in milk production there. All our systems and facilities are designed for the both of us. Hopefully, once we get in the groove of things, we’ll be able to give each other a day off once in a while. Thanks for watching!

  • @richardcompton2555
    @richardcompton25554 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations from Tempe, Arizona. I've been following you from barn erection to becoming milk producers and sellers. If I lived in your area, I would buy your wonderful milk. So happy for you both!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for your support!

  • @TC-by3qc
    @TC-by3qc4 жыл бұрын

    Wow, a great accomplishment on becoming a Licensed Organic Dairy Farm. Your dream, determination and dedication have made it happen. Wishing you the best of success. I'm happy and excited for you both. Congratulations!!!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your support! It means a lot. Have a happy day!

  • @zacman2112
    @zacman21129 ай бұрын

    This was very informative. Thank you

  • @DennysCountryLife
    @DennysCountryLife3 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations guys, thats huge! I couldn't be happier for you two!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Been a long road to get here!

  • @heatherviteo7128
    @heatherviteo71284 жыл бұрын

    Congrats 🎉 can’t wate ti see how things go at the farmers market .

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Us too! Thanks for your support!

  • @louchitchat
    @louchitchat Жыл бұрын

    congratulations guys

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @martinjones3721
    @martinjones37214 жыл бұрын

    WooooHoooo! Great job and congratulations !!!!!!!!!!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @amechelb
    @amechelb4 жыл бұрын

    Big old congratulations from me to you two!!!!! How amazing it must be. That’s a LOT of red tape. I’m sure it was a bit stressful at times.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    It could be overwhelming at times, but like we mentioned, the regulatory agencies wanted us to succeed and helped us through it! Thanks for your support!

  • @kokweing9469
    @kokweing94692 жыл бұрын

    Congratulation obtaining licence, great reward both of your hard work

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @ajayyadav4001
    @ajayyadav4001 Жыл бұрын

    Good work

  • @kirksawler1199
    @kirksawler11994 жыл бұрын

    Great news, congratulations

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for your support!

  • @webera
    @webera3 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations on the complishment😊 very happy for you.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @agirlandhercows501
    @agirlandhercows5013 жыл бұрын

    thanks for the trour!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    You’re welcome!

  • @markdodson4267
    @markdodson42674 жыл бұрын

    Nice cattle, nice facility best of luck. Stand-By Gererator

  • @markdodson4267

    @markdodson4267

    4 жыл бұрын

    Stand by generator? Replacement hoses, parts for milker? Talk to your electrican about what size generator. If you can get one big enough to run your house also. Used generator check to make sure not a lot of dust inside blow-out before starting. Turn off all breakers before starting then turn on one at a time so not to overload and trip main breaker. New generator is better if possible will have a warrantee. Test at least once a month under load or before a storm if possible. Bye.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hello! If 20 years in the military taught me anything, it’s standardization and redundancy! Yes, we have a PTO generator that is sized to be able to keep the lights and heat on in the house as well as be able to milk cows and cool milk in the barn. Also, I keep replacement parts and seal kits on hand for everything in the Dairy because when you need them, you need them right now! Haha! Thanks for your comments and thanks for watching!

  • @randynelson5614
    @randynelson56143 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for this video and congrats on passing! This is something I've been wanting to do on my family farm in Minnesota but its so hard to find videos and sources for guidance to get started. You two are great! Just gotta find out how to do it in my own state.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    You’re welcome! Glad it helps! Are you milking cows right now? If you have any specific questions, feel free to contact us! You can reach us through our website at clovermountaindairy (dot) com. Thanks for watching!

  • @randynelson5614

    @randynelson5614

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@vnthomas16 Will do! We do have 15 jersey cows certified organic like you have but only sell on farm raw milk that a few people are interested in. Really want to take the next step to pasteurize so we can advertise and reach more people.

  • @angelopecora1
    @angelopecora14 жыл бұрын

    Congrats

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @flvince
    @flvince4 жыл бұрын

    Best of luck.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @73Shakes
    @73Shakes4 жыл бұрын

    New to the channel (sub'd a couple weeks ago). Congrats on the licensing! Even though im not a farmer of any kind :( I find the process of diary farming very interesting (im weird like that I guess lol) Anyway.....love the channel and many thumbs up!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Welcome aboard! And thanks for the support! We’re glad you found us!

  • @cevuardriddick3305
    @cevuardriddick3305 Жыл бұрын

    ❤❤ Thank you for the video very intresting

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    Жыл бұрын

    You’re welcome!

  • @richardthompson9284
    @richardthompson92844 жыл бұрын

    Congrates!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @neilfaulkner9424
    @neilfaulkner94244 жыл бұрын

    Well done guys, you should be very proud of your achievements, never realised it was so involved for you. When do you get a third member of the milking team?

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Carnation is due mid-July, but I wouldn’t be surprised if she’s a few days early!

  • @toddcaskey9984
    @toddcaskey99844 жыл бұрын

    Great job u 2

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @nicholasholmes7837
    @nicholasholmes7837 Жыл бұрын

    Nice milk parlor!!!!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you! We love it still!

  • @williamw1907
    @williamw19074 жыл бұрын

    I can’t believe surge milkers are still around. 1970 s tech. Nice!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    They’re still popular too! They’re just a tried-and-true bulletproof design!

  • @RoseThistleArtworks
    @RoseThistleArtworks4 жыл бұрын

    Wow! That is a lot of licensing! Congratulations on navigating through all the paperwork. How many gallons did you end up getting with the new calf separation plan? I might've missed it if you said in the video. I'm seriously wanting some of that chocolate milk now. Would you ever consider doing something like yogurt or kefir? I know it may be too soon to ask, but thought I'd throw it out there, anyway. It's really cool to see how you two worked out a plan, stuck with it, and have come to fruition now after all that hard work. You deserve every bit of success I am sure will come your way.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    We just started separating the calves at night, 10pm-ish to 6am-ish, and in the morning, we get 1 1/2 - 2 gallons from each cow. The calves run with momma all day, so a little less milk at evening milking. We plan to do yogurt someday in the future. Thanks for the kind words!

  • @lisanowakow3688
    @lisanowakow36884 жыл бұрын

    Yea!!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Our thoughts exactly!

  • @amedcom
    @amedcom4 жыл бұрын

    Congratulations! Is it cost effective with the current number of cows? Good luck!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Great question! Just the two cows does cover our expenses, but it will be nice when the next cow comes online in July. That said, we’re just starting our and plan to grow. While we never want to milk more than 12, I think 6-8 would be a good place to be. Thanks for watching!

  • @stevemccoy8138
    @stevemccoy81383 жыл бұрын

    Hi Folks, What happened to your other two cows ? Hope you are doing well thanks for the update 🇺🇸

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    Hi there! Well, we started milking two cows who calves pretty close together (Buttercup and Rose) and then it wasn’t until a few months later that Carnation calved, so right now we’re milking three. Daisy didn’t get bred last year, so she’s just freeloading this year. But, all four have been rebred this year, and confirmed pregnant, with Daisy being the first one due in the Spring! Thanks for watching!

  • @davidwilson7021
    @davidwilson7021Ай бұрын

    I would buy from you all was raised on fresh milk.❤from Coleville

  • @MichaelSmith-hs5iu
    @MichaelSmith-hs5iu3 жыл бұрын

    Love it, wish I was there to see it in person. Can't get the dairy farming thing out of my blood. The best of luck to you guys for doing what a lot of people wish they could do. You have obviously over come all the barriers that today's society throws in front of most people. Wouldn't it be great if a lot more people could make a living off just a few acres with a minimum of investment

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    Starting a farm from scratch is definitely not an easy feat. It took us 12 years to get where we are. Nearly everything on our farm was the result of our own labor. If we were to hire someone to build our farm, we could never afford it. It was hard work for sure, but worth it! Thank you for your kind comments!

  • @tompreiss5010
    @tompreiss50103 жыл бұрын

    Stir caves from that bread are consider to be that best stakes or meat perfect marbling

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    We will see! Thanks!

  • @tompreiss5010
    @tompreiss50103 жыл бұрын

    Love to see some ove the dutiful orange butter.

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    We make butter for the house and it is a beautiful deep yellow color. And delicious!

  • @foxacresfarm7595
    @foxacresfarm75953 жыл бұрын

    I see you’ve dawned the suspenders he’s truly old time dairying

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    I’ve worn suspenders pretty much my entire life... The only thing is pants are getting harder and harder to find with suspender buttons pre-installed!

  • @enosburkholder2908
    @enosburkholder29083 жыл бұрын

    I grew up on dairy farm I remember that kind milker machine some where it just vaccum with milk hose it something it made pulse vaccum. I was wonder what name brand this milker machine. Yes I was grew up by surge milker but have other pulser equitment like one hose for milk other small pusle hose

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    The milking claw with pulsator we use is by NuPulse. We love the way it works. Thanks!

  • @jwmfarms
    @jwmfarms4 жыл бұрын

    Does the milk have to be cooled before processing, or could you go straight to the pasteurizer?

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    You could process straight from the cow I suppose, but we don’t make enough in one milking to meet the minimum on the pasteurizer, so we have to store the milk.

  • @davidwilson7021
    @davidwilson7021Ай бұрын

    Hey I live in Colville cool guys

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    Ай бұрын

    The creamery milk is available at the Super 1 Huckleberry’s in Colville.

  • @billshaver1767
    @billshaver17674 жыл бұрын

    bravo...i'm in ny....looking at same....working with 5-10 cows....on farm processing of milk into butter and cheese...like more insights...

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hello! We’re really happy with how everything has turned out! I love small dairies. Best of luck with your venture! We’ll continue to make videos of our journey so hopefully you can get something useful from them!

  • @billshaver1767

    @billshaver1767

    4 жыл бұрын

    look fwd to your progres... cheers!!1

  • @kimmyjeremy
    @kimmyjeremy3 жыл бұрын

    Just out of curiosity how'd y'all get recipes for the milk chocolate and if 2% and whole milk I would like advise because I'm looking into doing this in my future.....

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    We don’t do 2%... everything is whole milk. For our Chocolate Milk, we just experimented on a small scale in our kitchen until we found a recipe we liked. Good luck and thanks for watching!

  • @otispage5746
    @otispage57463 жыл бұрын

    Go Cougs!

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    Love WSU!

  • @enosburkholder2908
    @enosburkholder29083 жыл бұрын

    It is eaxcalty true that smaller farm are most cleanest job. Oh yes I love that Jersey cows milk they are very good milk the best number one milk taste more butterfat in it

  • @vnthomas16

    @vnthomas16

    3 жыл бұрын

    Jerseys definitely give the best milk!