Spring is here! In our humble little community, the goats at Ann Bertschy’s goat farm have been giving birth to their babies for a few weeks. Here in the valley, goats, sheep, and pigs begin giving birth to their young as early as January, so that the babies will be big enough and old enough for Gunnison’s upcoming summer 4-H programs. The 4-H is a youth program designed to teach children and teens responsibility and ethics through different projects, such as Livestock, Horse, Sewing, Photography, Cake Decorating, and more. Bertschy, a long-time resident of Gunnison, has been raising goats for the 4-H program for 22 years. She opens her farm to both the community and the children who participate in 4-H because she wishes “for people to experience the joy of goats and the lessons they teach.”

Children participating in the program adopt a baby goat (also known as KIDS) and then learn to care for it. The close interaction also helps teach the goats that people are safe and friendly as the children (and some adults) are often found holding and petting them. Children learn responsibility while opening their hearts as they create a wonderful bond with these energetic animals.

With the new quarantine in effect and the ability to meet as a group on hold. Here are a few pictures from about three weeks ago. I hope these bring you joy. Visit the Gunnison County 4-H website to learn more about this and other great programs in the valley.