Got Local Milk?

— from Krista Bouchey for Coffelt Farm —

Did you know that Orcas Island has its very own certified raw milk dairy? The Coffelt Farm Stewards has four beautiful dairy cows, Marigold, Ginger, Maple and Fergie. These cows are pasture raised year round and get plenty of fresh air and exercise. They produce (on average) 70 gallons of milk a week.

Fresh, raw milk direct from the farm is available at the farm stand on 1071 Crow Valley Road, Tuesday-Saturday from 1 pm – 5 pm. It can also be purchased at the Orcas Food Co-op, Orcas Village Store, Blossom Grocery on Lopez Island, and the San Juan Food Co-op.

In 2016, Coffelt Farm went through the rigorous process to become a WSDA certified dairy. The farm implemented the latest milk cooling technology and standards to ensure the milk is safe for human consumption. The farmers milk the cows every morning at 6 a.m. and the cows produce up to 10 gallons at each milking.

Eating locally produced food is not only richer in nutrients but also good for the planet. The Weston A Price Foundation (westonaprice.org) has lots of great information about the benefits and myths of consuming raw milk.

In addition to milk, the farm stand offers grass-fed meat, produce and wool products. Questions about the farm? Email Kate Mikulak at stewards@coffeltfarm.org.

The Coffelt Farm Stewards operate the Coffelt Farm that spans the northern reach of Orcas Island’s scenic Crow Valley. The 185-acre mosaic of pasture and marshland fringed with mature conifer forest extends to the lower slopes of Turtleback Mountain Preserve, creating one of the most beloved vistas in San Juan County.