Note: Cheese production ended in 2016 and our last year of goat babies was 2021. We sold the farm in 2024–such a difficult decision, but the time had come. Gianaclis continues to teach cheesemaking, do some cheese judging, and write.
Pholia (fo-LEE-a) Farm was owned by Vern and Gianaclis Caldwell. It was named after their two daughters, Phoebe and Amelia.
The farm was located on 24 acres at the base of Elk Mountain in Jackson County, Oregon, about 10 miles outside of the town of Rogue River. The farm was part of 220 acres that Gianaclis grew up on. (For more on the old place, Fire-ViewWoodheaters and Springbrook Farm After Vern retired from the Marine Corps, the Caldwells moved back home and began construction of their off-grid (by choice) dairy and home.
Power was supplied by a 10KW solar photovoltaic system and a permitted micro-hydro turbine to be powered by the seasonal creek. A back up generator runs on bio-diesel. Hot water and radiant flooring heat was provided by a high efficiency/ low emissions indoor wood boiler.
The goats were forest browsed, weather allowing. Locally grown hay is fed and the milkers also receive a limited amount of organic grain, black oil sunflower seeds, kelp meal, and supplements. Some special crops and herbs are grown organically for extra treats and therapy.
Herd health was approached in the most holistic and natural way possible along with treating the animals with respect and love.
The farm was visited regularly by a large herd of elk, flocks of wild turkeys, foxes, at least one good sized black bear, along with the usual skunks, deer, and cougar or two. The
herd was successfully guarded by wonderful livestock guardian dogs and a couple of llamas that live with the goats.
The cheeses were named after local landmarks and are each distinctive in their processing, shape, and flavor. Since Nigerians are not seasonal breeders, as most goats are, half of the herd was freshened in the fall and half in the spring. This allowed for a consistent supply of sweet, creamy milk and year round cheesemaking. The herd was small and the goats, being miniatures, are not large producers, but the milk was so unique in its components, that is made for incredible cheese. Production was under 100 pounds of cheese per month. Our motto since 2005 is: “If we can’t remember the doe’s name, we have too many goats.”
Travel Oregon Video
Pholia Farm Nigerian Dwarf Goats 