We breed East Friesian and Lacaune dairy sheep crosses. Most of our starter flock animals came from crossing to hair sheep, and we have attempted to retain a high number of individuals in the flock that have both high milk production and the shedding characteristic. We usually have a high percentage dairy ram lamb available to sell. Dairy sheep sheep rams are useful for commercial crossbred sheep flocks as their daughters have improved milk supplies for fast lamb growth.
Our "Bug Patrol Crew" consists of uncaged Muscovy ducks and Dominique and "Easter Egger" chickens. We usually keep a small number of very rare Welsh Harlequin ducks, plus non-standard Hamburgh chickens. We found that we generally have to keep poultry in covered pens in the late winter through spring months as predation is very high. Once the wild rabbits start breeding, it is a little bit safer to let the hens roam!
John often has unique jams and jellies to sell at the MERJ farmer's market. We have been experimenting with various vinegars and hard-to-find items such as pickled chestnuts. We have a small nut orchard started with chestnut oaks, chestnuts, and hazels. In a few years time we plan to have chestnuts and hazels to sell, along with acorn, hazel and chestnut flours.
The farmers at Red Dragon Farm are also talented artisans, and produce a range of beautiful arts and crafts. Handmade items include our luxurious sheep milk soaps, and stunning bead, stone, and wire-wrapped jewelry. Other items that are available on occasion include sheep fleeces, handwoven items, and wild grapevine wreathes.