by Leondia Walchle Indiana Correspondent
ADAMS County, Ind. – Roger and Jenny Neuenschwander, along with their extended family, have been raising, showing, breeding, and milking goats for 36 years. They are well-known dairy goat breeders, particularly recognized for their Toggenburg (Toggs) and Nubian goats. Toggs are the oldest registered breed in the American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA). They are primarily known for their high milk production, extended lactation period, consistent performance, and gentle nature. The Nubians are known for their long, floppy ears and high-quality, rich milk with high butterfat content. They are a dual-purpose breed for both dairy and meat production. The Neuenschwanders utilize an eight-stanchion milking area where two goats can be milked at a time using an automatic milking machine twice daily; very similar to dairy cattle on a smaller scale. Each goat will produce around one gallon of milk per day. Goat milk is the most widely consumed milk in the world. It has a rich nutritional profile, is easier to digest, and is a viable alternative to cow’s milk for those allergic. Jenny said, “We started out raising registered Holstein dairy cattle. When 4-H fair time came around, the kids were more interested in the goat barn.” The family maintains a 40-goat herd. They keep their own bucks to breed their does and sell breeding stock and wethers (male goat that has been castrated). Participating as a family unit, a handful of goats are entered in annual competitions from the county and state 4-H fairs to the national level. The Neuenschwander team returned from the July 2025 American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA) National Show held in Grand Island, Neb., to bring home the title of National Show Toggenburg Senior Champion with their 4-year old, “Neuen-View Mt Amazing Grace.” Judges look for an attractive framework, strong level top line, correct feet and legs, and wide, flat ribs. The family plans to participate in the 15-day 2025 North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE), in Louisville, Ky., Nov. 6-20. This is considered the largest all-breed, purebred livestock show in the country. |