destinations
The
Little Goat Farm at the Lake Story and photos by Amy Falkofske
T
The Beginning of the Little Goat Farm at the Lake
When you arrive at the farm, you’ll be led to a large fenced-in area where you’ll be given your very own friendly goat to interact with. That little goat will follow you around and seem to instinctively know that they belong with you. You’ll also be greeted by Marshmallow the funny alpaca who will stare — and maybe even spit at you. You might be approached by the very laid-back little Sicilian donkey meandering around the property. After you’ve spent some time with your goat, including feeding it a bottle, your group will get its very own bunny to snuggle.
“It was like going into the settlers on a prairie, but I’m from Minnesota, and like anywhere you go in the world, it’s a walk in the park weather-wise,” she said.
his year hasn’t been easy for anyone, but you know what makes any day a little better? The company of a little goat. You can find some goat company at the Little Goat Farm at the Lake.
Reservations Required
Like most businesses, the Little Goat Farm has had to make some changes due to COVID-19. You now need to make reservations. Also, each family gets their own dedicated goat, and the goats are sanitized between families. Co-owner, Susane Marsh, says the changes have actually been positive for family and group connections. “It restricts us, but we’ve also found from the pandemic some positive things. We’re going to continue pairing groups and families with their own goat for more enriching time together. This is one way we can safely provide really great entertainment for families and groups and continue with much of our practice that we’ve learned as a result of this COVID,” said Marsh.
14 |
September 2020 prince william living
The Little Goat Farm sits on 25 acres right on Lake Manassas. Marsh bought the property with her husband, Dr. Bob Marsh, while it was in foreclosure. She said the area was really overgrown with spikes, ticks and predators when they first took ownership of it, but that didn’t deter the native Minnesotan.
The Marshes’ decision to have goats was born out of wanting products that were pure for skin, without chemicals. They found that the pH of the goat is very similar to human beings in that it’s absorbed into the skin and filled with naturally high amounts of vitamins and minerals. They now offer a variety of soaps and lotions, including products for facial care.
Goat Yoga and Gardening Classes
Marsh, a PhD, is also a yoga instructor and a Master Gardner. The Little Goat Farm was the first in Virginia to offer goat yoga. It’s now in its fifth year. Yoga classes are currently limited in size and scope due to COVID-19. Marsh pointed out that goat yoga is very different than your usual more serious yoga. “Goat yoga is joyful,” she said.
