One-Cow Revolution: Achieving Food Independence with a Grass-Fed Family Cow
By Shawn and Beth Doughtery
White River Junction
I know I’m not alone in feeling that the reality of having a small homestead seems daunting. How do I begin, how much land do I need and what are the first priorities? Should I buy a cow, and if so, what is the process? In One-Cow Revolution, Shawn and Beth Dougherty show us how just one of these domestic ruminants can change your life and homestead. Through detailing all that they have learned on their own journey, they make a convincing point that the cow is the logical first step to a healthy homestead.
The Doughertys take us by the hand and lead us through the “why” and “how” of getting a cow. They show that the “why” goes beyond simply having raw milk on the family table. The cow, as an integral part of a homestead, adds organic matter and microorganisms to build soil and soil fertility. The cow doesn’t just benefit the family but also the community. In addition, they beautifully describe part of the magic of the cow as the invaluable opportunity to experience true connection to nature and its rhythms.
The “how” covers the financial aspects of buying a cow, where to shop for one and everything that comes after that special purchase! Of course, the cow needs to be kept secure on the property, as well as kept healthy and properly fed, milked and bred. As with any living being, issues will arise such as illness, lack of milk production or even kicking behavior. This book is the guide to have in one’s back pocket. The authors also share expert tips such as figuring out the smartest time to take a break and how to find quality help.
What I appreciated the most is that the Doughertys are realistic in their advice. I have read more books written by farmers and homesteaders than the average American, and I’ve found that such books are often very black and white, without any gray. The Doughertys honor the gray. . . realizing, for example, that there may be times when feeding grain to your cow is necessary and they outline when those times are. In addition, while they hold similar values to WAPF regarding unnecessary animal immunization and testing, they share how vital it is to build a respectful relationship with a local vet, even when foundational principles differ.
If you dream of having a homestead but have no idea how to begin or what the first steps should be, or you simply want to provide raw milk for your family, or you have already bought land and are looking for some guidance from experienced farmers, this book needs to be on your shelf! Moreover, it is sprinkled with real-life blurbs from families who have brought a cow into their lives—each with varying experience, conditions and circumstances—showing that having a cow is possible. My favorite line, which the authors successfully support throughout the book, is, “When you have made the leap. . . the blessings become apparent.” Are you ready to commit to a cow? One-Cow Revolution is the trusty handbook that can help you succeed. Thumbs up!
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