Because of a desire to live a life on the land, Matt and Rhonda Shaul established Cranberry Ridge Farm in 1999.  Both Matt and Rhonda have spent most of their lives learning about and caring for many types of animals.  They also share a deep curiosity and desire to learn about the healing properties of plants. 

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They were the first family in the history of Alaska to start a commercial goat dairy and bring product to market.  After they moved to New York in 2009 they began another commercial goat dairy.  Due to health reasons Matt and Rhonda are currently maintaining a small homestead herd of quality dairy goats.

 

After 25 years of study, thought and planning, Matt and Rhonda have decided to pursue professional certification as clinical herbalists and start offering herbal educational and coaching services. 

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Over the last 23 years of marriage, all of which involved farming and homesteading, they have developed many rural living skills and helped to mentor others who are seeking to live a rural life on the land.  Currently there are plans for a Homestead Workshop and Fellowship Day.  Each month we will explore in detail a topic/project of interest with a guest presenter. Those interested are invited to join in for a day of hands on learning, a potluck meal, and conversation and sharing afterward.

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Matt and Rhonda's newest enterprises include beekeeping and commercial garlic growing.  They are currently in their second year growing garlic for market, having planted 6 varieties in the fall of 2021.  Matt has spent the winter making use of their newest toy, a Woodland 130 Sawmill.  By the spring of 2022 he plans to have 35 beehives ready to fill, from wood he has logged and milled to size and built himself, with swarms captured from the landscape of Central NY.