Helpful guides & local resources to set up a small livestock farm in the PNW
Looking to start raising chickens in Kirkland? sheep in Lake Stevens? Alpacas in Puyallup?
We’re here to help you get started with poultry and small livestock on your small PNW property? This site is tailored to properties of around one acre or less.
What’s your
Why?
Everyone has a “why” they want critters. And hopefully it’s on this chart (if not, disregard).
Friendly Reminder
Don’t quit your day job!
Why Not!
There’s always that!
Learn how to manage the mess
Manure
Actually, good if properly managed but it will need to go somewhere.
Noise
Especially in a suburban environment.
Aggression
Mean roosters, sneak attack rams, spit-wad-to-the-face alpacas.
Level of Difficulty Raising Livestock Species
Each animal will have it’s own personality and possible health issues but this graph compares the general effort required to raise each species. In general, birds are easiest and donkeys and goats (especially dairy goats) take more effort.
When deciding what animals to get you should be mindful of several factors that will effect the amount of effort they will take to raise.
Potential Health Issues • Fencing • Nutritional Requirements • Climate Tolerance • Temperament
Not recommended livestock for small homesteads
It may be possible with careful planning to raise larger livestock on small acreage but this website is focused on small livestock.
Get Started Raising Small Livestock
Beginner guides by species
Chickens
Ducks &
Geese
Turkeys
Sheep
Goats
Swine
Donkeys &
Ponies
Alpacas
Exotics
What is this site about?
This site offers helpful guides to setting up small (mini, micro) farms in the PNW. It’s aim is to help beginners with small plots (AKA backyards) that would like to own poultry or small livestock.
How can I start a small farm?
This site offers guides and resources to help plan and set up a successful small livestock farm of your own.
How can I get involved?
Please share your own insights gained while setting up or keeping critters of your own—Especially in the PNW region. You can also submit your own products or services.