Oberhasli breeds shine at Pennsylvania farm show

By Blake Jackson

For years, Oberhasli goats were like the wallflowers of the goat world, barely getting a glance at the Junior Dairy Goat Show. But at the 108th Pennsylvania Farm Show, these charming Swiss natives are finally strutting their stuff. 

"The Oberhasli breed has made leaps and bounds in recent years," said Helen Snyder, Farm Show dairy goat superintendent, noting the breed's surge from a handful of entries to a dozen this year. "Their conformation and production have improved dramatically, and I'm impressed with their progress." 

Melissa Johnson, an 18-year-old from Glen Mills, personifies this Oberhasli resurgence. Her goat, Louisiana, took home grand champion honors in her class, proving that these gentle giants are not to be underestimated. Melissa's love for goats started young, fueled by a clever strategy to convince her family to enter the goat world. 

At 11, allergic to cow's milk and unimpressed by the price of goat milk, Melissa took matters into her own hands. With her savings and a determined spirit, she acquired two goats and snuck them into an unused chicken coop. It wasn't long before her family was hooked, embarking on a journey through different breeds like Nubians, LaManchas, and even mischievous Nigerians. 

Finally, they discovered the Oberhasli. With their striking black markings, rich brown coats, and easy-going personalities, they were a perfect fit for the Johnsons. Their current herd of 10 Oberhasli promises to grow even larger after the upcoming kidding season. 

Beyond the show ring, the Johnsons are passionate about sharing the benefits of goat milk. They milk their goats twice daily, enjoying the versatile milk for drinking, cheesemaking, yogurt, and even fudge. They also highlight the nutritional advantages of goat milk and meat, both popular globally but underdogs in the US. 

The Farm Show wasn't just about Oberhasli triumphs. Visitors flocked to the "goat snuggling" booth for a cuddle with adorable baby goats, while others savored goat "sloppy Joes" at the Pennsylvania Livestock Association booth. 

The 108th Pennsylvania Farm Show proved to be a stage for the Oberhasli breed to shine. From overlooked underdogs to grand champions, these gentle goats are captivating audiences and paving the way for a brighter future in the American goat world. 

Photo Credit: pexels-pavel-bondarenko