Why is the the Barn Closed Sometimes?
If you've visited us recently, you may have seen areas that are normally open be closed to visitors--especially at peak times.
Understandably, this can be disappointing (and a little underwhelming) to our visitors! Especially if their expectations didn't take this possibility into account. Or perhaps someone who has visited before is let down to see an area closed off.
Some may not understand why, and might even think it unfair. But education is the key to understanding here, so let's bring you behind the scenes to understand the "why" behind what we do!
1. Our animals come first!
We've recently experienced an unprecedented increase in the number of visitors through our farm. And as thankful as we are that folks have chosen to make us a stop on their trip (that really is so special!), our cows are sometimes not so thrilled as we are.
You see, cows are creatures of routine. They love nothing more than the peace and stability of a predictable life. Knowing this, perhaps you can imagine how stressful it would be for a cow to give birth with a large audience of strangers introducing new noises and smells and flashing cameras. No, thank you! As special as it is to witness the miracle of life, this is one of the reasons our dairy barn is sometimes closed to visitors.
If we can give our animals the peace they so much enjoy, we will absolutely do that. And right now, that means closing the barn when we know they need space.
2. You could be squashed.
Quite literally! We aren't a petting farm - we're a real, working dairy farm. And sometimes that means we have to run equipment and get chores done, so we close off areas in which we need to work. Not only is this for your safety, but also the peace of mind of our farmers. We really, really, realllly don't want to squash anyone. Can't say that enough.
3. It's only sometimes.
Providing a farm-to-table experience to visitors is very important to us. We always hope that guests leave with an increased appreciation for agriculture and a greater understanding of where their food comes from!
You can expect to see areas closed more often during the busy summer months, although there will be the occasional need to do this regardless of time of year.
If we can continue providing education to our visitors we absolutely will! But as we get busier the need arises to change just how we do that.
In conclusion...
We sincerely hope this helps you to understand why we do things. Although it may seem unfair to someone as a visitor, if we didn't do anything it would certainly be unfair to our animals. We are, first and foremost, a dairy farm; and as such, our animals come first!
We appreciate your understanding, friends, and hope to see you around the farm!
xo, Team LQC
