In this conversation, Rob Benson interviews Marc Warnke, a hunting consultant and goat rancher, to explore the benefits and challenges of raising pack goats. Marc shares his journey from bioengineering student to advocate for goat packing, emphasizing the utility of goats for backcountry adventures, family bonding, and homesteading.

The discussion covers the intricacies of raising goats, including proper care, nutrition, breeding, and understanding goat behavior. Marc delves into the canning process, highlighting the benefits of canned goat meat and bones, as well as the practicalities of livestock guardian dogs for predator protection. The conversation provides insights into goat housing, social dynamics, and budgeting for aspiring goat owners.

Marc also discusses the unique advantages of using goats as pack animals, including their adaptability, affordability, and ease of transport compared to other livestock. He touches on the historical context of goat packing in America, regulations surrounding the practice, and the innovations he has made in goat gear to enhance their utility in backcountry adventures.

Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or new to the idea of goat packing, this conversation offers a comprehensive guide to the joys and complexities of incorporating goats into your life.

Follow Rob Benson online

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Follow Marc Warnke Online

Website: https://packgoats.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pack.goats
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/packgoat
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@packgoatscom

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Pack Goats

04:14
Innovations in Goat Gear and Tack

08:12
The History and Value of Goats in America

09:24
Why Goats Are Superior to Other Pack Animals

12:10
Challenges in Raising Goats

14:01
Essential Care for Pack Goats

17:46
Nutrition and Feeding Considerations

19:11
Parasite Management in Goats

22:51
Mineral Needs for Goat Health

24:58
The Importance of Education in Goat Care

26:15
Creating a Sustainable Feeding System

28:04
Managing Goat Behavior and Aggression

32:47
Utilizing Goats for Multifunctional Purposes

35:10
The Process of Butchering Goats

37:53
Canning Process Essentials

40:05
Utilizing Goat Meat and Bones

41:32
The Joy of Raising Goats

43:38
Livestock Guardian Dogs: Necessity or Luxury?

48:04
Budgeting for Livestock Guardian Dogs

52:05
Predator Concerns for Goat Owners

54:20
Goat Housing and Social Dynamics

57:19
Understanding Goat Breeding and Segregation

01:08:33
Breeding and Weighing Goats

01:10:34
Transporting Goats to the Trailhead

01:12:54
Planning and Navigating Backcountry Trips

01:15:35
Water Needs and Foraging Behavior of Goats

01:17:01
Ideal Goat Numbers for Backcountry Trips

01:18:38
Regulations and Restrictions on Goat Packing

01:22:28
Preparing for the Trailhead

01:25:09
Setting Up Camp with Goats

01:31:12
Training and Managing Goats in the Backcountry

01:40:53
The History of Goat Packing

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