Participate In The Tepper Line Preservation Project

Preserving genetic diversity is an important task. We often associate genetic diversity with heirloom varieties of fruits and vegetables. But the same principle is applied to livestock and poultry. You can learn more about the Tepper Line Preservation Project by clicking on the link.

Below is information on how you can more actively participate in this project. You can help by either donating to this project or actively participating in obtaining and breeding Tepper Line San Clemente Island goats.

As of 2025, there are only three people actively working on this project, including myself. There are other Tepper Line SCI goats out there, but obtaining them or establishing reliable and steadfast cooperative work with breeders has been a challenge.

This is where I am taking a more rigorous approach to help build a dedicated Tepper Line breeder group. Any movement of Tepper Line San Clemente Island goats from EB Ranch Farmstead will go through a vetting process, including contractual agreements around regular communication, and rights to obtain goats that can no longer be cared for.

Life happens, and things can dramatically shift in our lives. Creating a safety net for Tepper Line goats that need to be rehomed is important. As well as asking that Tepper Line breeders stay in responsive and responsible communication with other Tepper Line breeders.

While remaining inclusive is always important, there is no tolerance for people who create drama or choose not to find solutions to issues that may occur. We are only human, and our irresponsible behaviour should not endanger these already critically endangered goats.

A Different Approach

The information above may seem harsh to some, but I feel this prepares people to take responsibility. Especially when considering the approach I am taking. I am proposing to new and current breeders the option of trading or ‘free” while the transport costs are on the person acquiring the new goats. This is why there will be a vetting process, as I don’t want people to think these goats are not “valuable” because I’m essentially giving them away.

Nor should anyone expect this kind of option from most other San Clemente Island goat breeders. Many breeders need to break even with the goats they raise, if not make some money, as breeding is often a business. I am offering this option as I’m deeply concerned about the well-being of line preservation with this goat breed. And would like to offer a creative solution to breeders.

I will only work with people who are committed to registering their goats with the San Clemente Island Goat Breeders Association. I will refuse to work with people who decide not to register or work with a different registration business. Both of these “options” have resulted in chaos, turmoil, and are detrimental to the SCI Goat breed.

I will gladly offer mentorship and help you establish short and long-term goals, including different breeding plans. And will be available for support as needed.

While San Clemente Island goats are still just goats, some extra care and thought are required when working with a critically endangered breed. I suggest reading the book Managing Breeds For A Secure Future. You can find new and used copies online and through The Livestock Conservancy.

After all of this, it’s truly not that difficult to start and grow your herd of Tepper Line SCI goats. You need to come in with an open mind, cooperative presence, and basic goat knowledge to help with this important project.

Forms Coming Soon!

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Forms Coming Soon! 〰️

    • Why are you interested in working on the Tepper Line SCI goat breed?

    • What is your short and long term goals with the Tepper Line?

    • What vet do you work with?

    • What kind of climate do you live in? And describe your fencing and housing setup.

    • Describe to me your food and water routine. As well as other care, such as hoof trimming, vaccinations, and sick animals.

    • Are you interested in growing a more local community of SCI goat breeders?

  • Coming soon!

  • I am dedicated to be available through the length of a goats life with new owners to support when possible.

    I encourage breeders to offer the same when they sell or re-home Tepper Line SCI goats to new breeders. And refer new owners to me or whoever else is involved in the Tepper Line breeding project.

  • There may be goats available from EB Ranch Farmstead in the late summer of 2026.

    There are some bucklings available with a breeder in NC. And may be some goats available from another WI breeder in 2026.

  • Some red flags that will stop me from working with people.

    • Fast and furious acquisition of goats.

    • No established management plan.

    • Threatening language and refusal to find resolution to issues.

    • Only wanting these goats for a status symbol. “Endangered” sounds exotic.

  • First and foremost, it is important to work on growing the Tepper line and finding more dedicated breeders.

    But with that, we all need to think about other long-term goals. Cashmere, goat meat, goat milk, and agri-tourism are just a few options.

    With growth, we always need to think about purpose. Sometimes establish more breeders in your area is a great and community building option. Buying goats in and splitting costs can help everyone.