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Outline of Need:
The Amaltheia Dairy, in Belgrade, Montana, began as a small goat dairy in 2000 but Mel and Sue Brown never intended to be in the dairy business. Mel was working as a genetic engineer, transplanting cattle embryos, when one swift kick from a cow shattered his leg. His injury made it difficult to continue to work with large animals so his focus shifted from cows to goats.
When the Browns first started Amaltheia Dairy, they were hard pressed to find financing. They received some help from their local lender but the bulk of the initial start-up money came from the second mortgage they put on their home. Starting with a goat milk dairy, the Browns soon expanded to a second facility that houses their cheese-making plant.
How Rural Development Helped:
This is where Rural Development came in. Amaltheia Diary was awarded Value-Added Producer Grant funds (learn more about this program) that enabled the Browns to enlarge their workforce and expand their product line to the dried goat whey market. Dried goat whey is highly prized for its exceptional protein, mineral, and vitamin content and is used as a nutritional supplement.
At a ceremony celebrating Rural Development's funding, Robert Leigland, Acting State Director said, “The jobs created and the expansion of this innovative business show what can be accomplished when agriculture-entrepreneurs and Rural Development work together. Amaltheia Dairy is a great example of the Montana small business spirit.”
The Results:
Today, Amaltheia Dairy has about 280 goats and produces 150 gallons of goat milk, for their cheese manufacturing, each day. Amaltheia Dairy now boasts nationally recognized and award winning Chevre, Feta, and Ricotta cheeses. The Browns, however, are not slowing down. They are very close to receiving their “organic” status and are working hard at developing businesses utilizing their dairy by-products.
From a kick in the shin, to nationally acclaimed gourmet cheese, Mel and Sue Brown have been resourceful and ambitious in making Amaltheia Dairy the success it is today. Partnering with Rural Development is how they will build on that success and add to their dreams for the future.
(in the photo from left to right) Sue Brown, Co-Owner, Amaltheia Dairy
Robert Leigland, Acting State Director Montana Rural Development
Mel Brown, Co-Owner, Amaltheia Dairy.
(February 2005)
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