Cooperation key to Idaho raw goat milk producers’ success

Kami Jenkins describes her regional competitors in the raw goat milk industry as a second family — and a key reason why her sales continues to grow.  She’s among about 10 small-scale raw goat milk producers in Eastern Idaho who have banded together to find strength in greater numbers. The competitors share advice, cooperate in breeding, sell each other excess milk to keep up with spikes in demand and even lend goats when someone’s business is really booming.  Jenkins — who has 15 does and a single buck — said she may lend a goat to a competitor, or borrow one to bolster her supply — for anywhere from a few days to five months.  “It gets us what we need because we all have milk clients, and we all need to keep up with demand,” Jenkins said.  Jenkins sells handmade goat milk soap, lotion, cheese, wool and raw milk. She explained goat milk is an ideal fit for breast feeding mothers, and it can also be consumed by some clients with lactose intolerance.