Mary Elizabeth Herbert

6-10 years experience

Focus Livestock

Updated June 9, 2025

Before and after knotweed Evening checks Demolished knotweed Public spaces Goats for the mad river valley knotweed project Who is going to get it first?

Seeking

  • Grazing
  • 0-5 acres
  • Collaborative model
M

M. Beth Herbert

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Looking for winter and shoulder season housing for the goats eating knotweed in the Mad River Valley. 

Farming experience

6-10 years experience

Currently farming

Yes

Highest level of farming experience

Farm business ownership

Description of farming experience

Started learning and contracting/volunteering with 3 goats. Held onto them for about 5 years while also forming partnerships with meat producers and other grazing operations to further potential for contract grazing. Owned a herd of 28 goats at one point, went back to renting, and now own and manage 18 goats. 

Farming plans

Tenure arrangement desired

Collaborative model

Tenure arrangement description

I don’t make a lot with contract grazing and need to hold down side jobs as well to afford rent/life. Housing available next door or with goats is preferred, but not necessary.  Housing trade for land stewardship is ideal. 

Planned farm enterprise: Primary

Livestock

Planned farm enterprises: Others

Agroforestry, Homesteading

Farm enterprises description

Would like to stick with contract grazing and avoid meat production when and if possible. Developing a home is high priority for goats and myself here in the valley. 

Written business plan

In progress

Business planning description

Working with the Intervale Center. So far, I didn't need a business plan as I had the exact work partnership (with public lands) I desired with contract grazing. 

Farmer housing needed

Yes

Water source needed

Yes

Farm infrastructure needed

  • Barn/farm buildings
  • Electricity/power

Description of infrastructure needed

Run in shed and hay storage. About 10 round bales and 100 square. 

Access to equipment needed

No

Additional information

I didn’t get into contract grazing to be a business owner. I wanted to work with animals to restore neglected landscapes and save native species. Becoming an animal rescue is an added bonus and perhaps a viable part of a business plan down the line. Remaining in business with conservation committees, towns, and state/federal lands is the first priority, which means stable housing to grow a business out of.