Submitted by Kathryn Rizzo
(April 10, 2024) — On a beautiful spring morning in March the Haddam Cub Scouts Pack 40 visited Cold Goats Farm in Haddam Neck to get a taste of what farm life is like. Cold Goats Farm is owned and run by Vivienne and Bob McGarry, who graciously hosted the scouts and showed us the dirty side of farm life.
After introductions and some time with the adorable baby sheep, the scouts got to work. Scouts helped to install a fence, clean the chicken coop, spread manure, stack wood and clean animal stalls. Other tasks included collecting eggs, brushing the pony and playing with the farm dogs. There were many scouts and their parents helping with the chores. Wow, it was hard work, and this was just one day!
Pack 40 quickly learned that running a farm is an eight-day- a-week job, one that requires dedication and a lot of grit. But what also was apparent was the amount of joy and satisfaction that comes from the work of caring for the animals and property.
The McGarrys were wonderful hosts, and we ended our time relaxing and roasting marshmallows by the fire. The beautiful farm setting and spring sunshine felt like a page out of a children’s book and we left our farm work day with many fond memories.
Pack 40 would like to thank the McGarrys for hosting us and giving Pack 40 Cub Scouts a taste of what running a farm is like.
To learn more about Cold Goats Farm please visit www.coldgoatsfarm.com.
To learn more about the Haddam Cub Scouts please email haddampack40@gmail.com
Photos by Kathryn Rizzo
