Sterling Fibers Ranch
Gunnison, CO.
Sterling Fibers Ranch
We believe that every step of the process from the source to the finished product matters. Sterling Fibers Ranch is not only a ranch that prioritizes regenerative, natural, and sustainable practices, it's also a reliable source for renewable, reusable, simplistic, natural products and quality breeding stock.
"
Sterling Fibers Ranch was established in 2023.
We raise a mixed breeding flock of cashmere goats and heritage-breed American Jacob sheep with two guardian llamas. All of the animals in the Sterling Fibers flock are raised on lush pasture and the clear mountain streams of the top of the Colorado watershed. We utilize rotational and prescribed grazing to keep our pastures as healthy as our animals. Our animals are considered as individuals within our herd. The cold, sunny winters of the Rocky Mountains result in a higher quantity of luxuriously delicious fiber, and our animals turn green grass into lovely fleece all summer long."
FARM STATS
FARM STATS
Gunnison, CO.
Location:
12
Acres:
1-50 Goats
Herd Size:
Available Services & Activities:
breeding stock, stud service, handmade and natural products through the online store or at local art markets
On-Farm Stay:
Facebook:
Instagram:
Farm Website:
Meet the Farmers
Maya Conn
I am a first-generation rancher.
I have always been a full-out die-hard nature and animal enthusiast. Anyone who has known me since I was little will tell you about all the critters, plants, and rocks that had my undivided focus and obsessive observation. Those who know me now will tell you that hasn't changed much. The flora and fauna of our world still hold my unending fascination.
I started in a 4H Cashmere Goat program when I was 11, and that has inspired me to pursue ranching as a career and lifestyle.
After discovering the joys of raising, breeding, and having livestock I wanted to create with and use what they produced to make beautiful, functional things. My fiber arts journey began - I learned to spin, weave, knit, felt, and dye through a handful of lessons and lots of practice. And there's always more to learn.
When I'm not on the ranch I enjoy hiking or skiing in the Colorado mountains, swimming or fishing in a lake or river, cooking and baking, or curling up by a fire with a cup of peppermint tea and a good book. I'm an avid woodworker, artist, and writer.
Farm Interview
Why Cashmere?
I got my first cashmere goat through 4H when I was 11. I was instantly hooked on goats. As a teenager in 4H, I learned about selective breeding, took my goats to shows and won several awards, and my goats became an integral part of my life. At 17, I took over ownership of my animals, leased a nearby pasture, and started my own ranch. I then rescued four heritage breed Jacob sheep and a pregnant Llama.
Biggest Challenge?
Because I am a first generation rancher, my resources are limited. Infrastructure is my biggest challenge. I have access to beautiful pasture, but I've had to build everything from scratch - things like fencing, shelters, and storage areas for hay and equipment. Building infrastructure is expensive. Because I'm leasing pasture, I also can't live on site. Traveling back and forth from my home to my ranch, or camping out during kidding / lambing can be quite challenging.
Biggest Successes?
My breeding efforts have resulted in noticeable improvements in each generation that exhibit more of the traits I'm selecting for - fiber quality and quantity, conformation, and temperament. In just three years, my grazing methods have resulted in pasture improvements. I've learned a lot about grazing animals and land management by having goats. Having a mixed flock teaches me about different grazing styles and how each species of animal can balance the others out.
Do you view farming as more of a business or a lifestyle?
I see farming as a lifestyle that is also a business. I want to enjoy what I do every day, share it with others, and run a successful business.
What have been the biggest changes you've implemented on your farm?
As a new ranch, I've had to build everything from scratch. Starting with a blank and mostly unimproved pasture, I added fencing, gates, a shed, an insulated outfitted tack room, other small shelters, electric fence, and hay storage.
I've been more selective about my grazing practices, transitioning to more sustainable land management. I am expanding my flock and will be purchasing new breeding bucks this year.
I'm currently working on diversifying revenue streams for my business - raw fiber, yarn, textiles, and value-added products like soap, meat, and sheepskins. This year I launched my website and online store.
I'm exploring certifications including Humane Handling and Sheep Shearing, and entering my sheep in Livestock Conservancy's "Shave 'em to Save 'em" program.
