Courtesy iStockphoto/Thinkstock Hobby farmers can read through the ALBC’s Dairy Processing 101 workbook online to learn basic information about starting a dairy operation. |
In the fall of 2010, the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, an organization dedicated to genetic conservation of livestock and the promotion of endangered livestock and poultry breeds, conducted a two-day intensive Dairy Processing 101 workshop at its annual conference. The workshop covered many aspects of establishing a dairy-processing business, including breed selection, business planning, product development, legalities and marketing. The workshop was well-received by all who attended. As a result of this positive feedback, the ALBC wanted to provide anyone interested in getting involved with dairy processing with access to the workshop information.
The ALBC recently released the Dairy Processing 101 course workbook online in a self-guided format. Hobby farmers can walk themselves through the process of setting up a dairy-processing business from the planning stages to the implementation of all the small details. While the online workbook does not provide the same interaction as the hands-on workshop, it provides a framework for beginners to think about a dairy farming or processing operation.
Inside the Dairy Processing 101 workbook, hobby farmers will find six sections covering pre-business planning, business planning, heritage dairy animal overview, what dairy products to make, legalities (including a list of state dairy organizations), and dairy-processing infrastructure.
The ALBC says its goal is to help farmers find niche outlets for their rare breeds and rare-breed products. As the market for rare-breed dairy products grows, new farmers interested in this venture must be wise and informed in order to create financial success and to serve conservation, it says.
