The processing plant is located on the Oamek farmstead built in 1891 with over 124 acres. A 100-year old bunkhouse was renovated for the dairy to accommodate the plant and milk parlor. Care and consideration were taken to modernize the plant to meet strict dairy standards yet retain the flavor of the original farm. The Oameks grow rich, organic alfalfa to provide feed for the herds, a staple of a superior dairy goat. The herd, consisting of Alpine, Saanen and Nubian goats, provide a unique blend of the best qualities of each breed. The ever changing flavor of the milk is inseparably tied to the land and the season of the farms. Both owners collect milk at their individual milk parlors and then pool their milk in a bulk tank at the Oamek farm. Using time-honored farmstead techniques, the milk is crafted into a mild, dense and smooth Chevre with a wonderful range of flavors...
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Honey Creek Creamery is nestled in the Loess Hills of southwest Iowa. These unique landforms are only found here and in China. Milk and cheese derived from Loess vegetation are unique from anywhere else in the world. Our dairy goats browse the Loess Hills on shrubs, weeds, underbrush and invasive plants. Grazing maintains the integrity of native prairie and pastures while offering a lifestyle that does not keep the goats confined. Given only .01% of Iowa's prairies survive today, this restorative value is important. By using rotational grazing, goats are re-introduced to consume new buds and rid the area of weeds. Managed grazing allows healthy native plants to thrive and provides permanent vegetative cover that mitigates soil erosion. Additionally, soil quality is improved since nutrients increase from 3x - 5x amounts found prior to introduction of the goats.
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| The owners, Janna and Sharon, have similar goals, values and visions for the dairy. Both aspire to become a trusted local food producer who crafts wholesome artisan cheese known for its quality and freshness. Each owner brings different strengths and a combined passion for goats and the pastoral life. They focus on selling to local markets and collaborating with nearby businesses to provide local products and community support. The general health of the herd is the #1 priority for both owners and provides a foundation for superior cheese. Milk is collected twice a day and cheese is crafted every other day. This allows Honey Creek Creamery to offer a sharply refreshing cheese with a smooth and creamy finish complemented by fresh herbs for your enjoyment.
We also support natural, sustainable business alternatives. Our healthy farmstead lifestyle is marketed through sustainable venues in tours, Farmers Markets, local restaurants and CSAs. Locally produced food has a lower environmental impact by using significantly less fuel for distribution. Additionally, our packaging is made from post consumer recycled material and is endorsed by the Green Restaurant Association.
We look forward to continuing to build our special relationships with consumers (extended goat family?) who appreciate our ability to turn quality milk into exceptional cheese.
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