By Shelby Richardson
Staff Writer
The Sisters of Providence are known for growing much of their own food and selling yarn from their alpacas. But during Thanksgiving, poultry and other meets came from other suppliers.
It wasn’t always this way. The farming operation has changed over time. Before alpacas, the Sisters actually had cattle. They had their own dairy farm that provided them their milk. They also received awards at shows for their cows just like they do now with the alpacas.
Along with the cows they also raised pigs and chickens. The meat that came from the animals went to both the college and sisters. There was no separation in the food between the two.
In the 1960’s, however, they had to get rid of all livestock because the forest became a persevered forestland, in spite of the Sisters’ land management to prevent over-grazing.
“After that, the only animals that were around were horses,” said Sister Ann Sullivan, S.P.
The Sisters now try to get their meat from local stores and try to buy it organically grown.
“We are very happy with our food supply now,” said Sullivan. “It is good to have fresh food. We get greens and such that are organically grown. That is all thanks to the hoop house, green house, and the White Violet Center.”
The alpacas became part of the farm after some careful research by the Sisters.
“It all started with a look at grants for livestock,” Sullivan said. “We were looking at cows, bison, and other related animals.”
Sullivan said they decided that alpacas would be the best choice because they are easy on the land and they do not need to be killed to get their fibers.
“It also helps that they are gentle and they are adorable too,” she added.
Popularity: 21% [?]
