In 2013, we went to our first non-fair shows, had our first linear appraisal, and put our does on milk test in the DHIR program. We have appraised every year since (we did skip 2016, as our yearlings were all due right around appraisal time, and 2019 because of Nationals), continued on milk test, and done a little bit of showing here and there. Our herd continues to improve, with several champion legs added to our list.
Our does continue to receive their milk stars as first fresheners. Our 3-year-old Lamancha also was the first to receive the Superior Genetics (SG) designation through ADGA, in December 2014. We have since added several more SGs to our name, SG Featherbrained MaryAnn's Belle, SG Olentangy Stingray Hestia, SG Fir Meadow DNL Falke, SG Literate Lamanchas Dacey and SG Literate Lamanchas Tiger Lily (2019 Elite Doe). Literate Lamanchas Scout, who freshened as a 2 year old in 2019 and has been milking through, came within 8 lbs. of making the 2019 Breed Leader list for butterfat--so close! Perhaps she will make it on her second freshening--time will tell.
Our purebred French Alpine herd continues to grow and improve, with several of the does earning championship legs. We have been very pleased with what our bucks are doing for us as well. Our first *B Sunrising Charmer Zut Alors daughter, Tuva Acres ZA Beignet, has been milking through since last May, and continues to hold up in milk volume, despite the summer heat. She looks better every day, too, widening out and deepening as a 2 year old. Tuva Acres ZA Gallette freshened as a 2 year old this year with big twin bucks, and we are so very pleased with her udder. We can't wait to be able to get her out and show her again as a milker.
Our herd continues to test negative for CAE, CL and Johnes. We have decided to discontinue CL and Johnes testing, as we have consistently tested negative and have never had an issue (plus the tests are of dubious value and testing adds a great deal of expense). We will continue to test for CAE on an annual basis.
Our does produce delicious, sweet, creamy milk in greater quantities that we can use ourselves. We are now selling it for $12/gallon, and you must bring your own clean, sanitized containers. Contact us for availability.