When we moved into our small farmstead southwest of Salem, Oregon, the fences were falling down; the grass in the fields was 16 inches tall and brown; and poison oak, blackberries and thistles were everywhere. Enough of all this must have been visible from the road for the suspicions of the county assessor—out on his once-every-six-years inspection—to be aroused. As we stacked moving boxes outside the garage, he paid us a visit and, with seriousness, said: “Welcome to the neighborhood. Did you know that a farm is to farm?” That was July and the challenge he left us was to have a farm enterprise begun by the following January 1.

Thus began our study and then purchase of our first two Pygora Goats, Blondie and E.T., and their constant and care-full companion Summa, the llama. Why Pygoras? Because they were small enough to manage but strong and sturdy too. They offered a useful product in their lovely, soft fleece—and one did not need to kill them or milk them twice a day. Our poison oak, blackberries and even Thistles were their pieces of cake. And, they were smart, interesting, and personality plus (that Pygmy/Angora combination with the best of each). Also, did you know that Pygora goats were first bred in Oregon in the mid-70’s? They’re a local product!

At Verdant Vistas, the scale is small and personal, the attention intimate and continuous, and all our goats are above average.  Each has a name, a special place in our hearts and a personality all his or her own!