Goat Updates from the DGSN/Inspire Farm: Remembering Vega, Welcoming Peanut, and Looking Ahead

Vega’s Passing: 

In February 2025, we experienced a difficult loss—Vega, one of our beloved goats at DGSN and Inspire, passed away. She had been struggling with underlying metabolic and gastrointestinal issues, which ultimately led to a double prolapse. Despite veterinary care and our team’s best efforts, we were unable to save her. Vega was a treasured part of our school farm for over three years, bringing joy, calm, and curiosity to hundreds of students. She was showered with love, pets, and snacks from our school community. Many students had deep bonds with her, and we provided space for students to process and reflect on her passing. She will be deeply missed.

Vega

Marshmallow’s Pregnancy: 

In December 2024, Marshmallow, our other Nigerian Dwarf goat, spent a month at Finding Nectar farm in Arvada in hopes of becoming pregnant. Upon her return, we noticed signs that suggested a pregnancy. However, as her expected due date passed without any kids, we came to realize that Marshmallow likely experienced a miscarriage early in gestation—before more noticeable signs would have appeared. Around this time, Marshmallow’s behavior also changed, and the stress of losing Vega added complexity to what we initially interpreted as signs of continued pregnancy. This was a tender and challenging moment for our team.

Peanut’s Arrival: 

Goats are social animals, and with Vega gone, we wanted to make sure Marshmallow would not be alone. Goats without companionship can experience stress and anxiety. Thankfully, we connected with a family in Fort Lupton who was downsizing their farm and looking for a new home for one of their goats. In early July 2025, Nick and Matt brought home Peanut — a half Nigerian Dwarf, half Miniature Nubian goat who’s about the same age as Marshmallow. Peanut is settling into her new space and getting to know her penmate. We’re excited for the two to bond and for students to begin forming their own connections with Peanut when they return in August.

Marshmallow and Peanut getting to know each other

Charles’ Summer Stay: 

Because many in our community were excited about the possibility of baby goats, we’re giving Marshmallow another chance at motherhood — this time with the support of her new companion. This summer, Finding Nectar farm has graciously lent us a billy goat named Charles to stay with Marshmallow and Peanut through early August. With a little luck, we hope to welcome new kids toward the end of the fall semester. This is an exciting opportunity for our farm program to continue engaging students in the full cycle of animal care and life on the farm.

Our goat guest, Charles

Looking Ahead: Agroforestry at DGSN & Inspire:

Beyond the goat pen, we’ve been hard at work this summer expanding the campus garden to include a new agroforestry learning space. Agroforestry is the intentional integration of trees and shrubs into crop and animal farming systems to create environmental, economic, and social benefits (USDA). With the support of DAR , we’ve dug new waterwise features like berms and swales, and planted over 150 bare root trees. This new space will close the loop between our animals and plants — compost will nourish the trees, and those trees will eventually provide food for our goats. It’s an inspiring model of sustainable farming, and we can’t wait for students and community members to learn from it in the upcoming school year.

SEF staff and volunteers planting bare root trees

How to Support: 

Our farm program is powered by the love and labor of our students, staff, and broader community. From animal care to agroforestry, this work depends on ongoing support to thrive. If you’re inspired by our efforts and want to help us grow, here are a few ways you can contribute:

• Make a one-time donation: Your financial support helps cover veterinary care, feed, tools, seeds, and student programming. Click here to donate.

• Sponsor our program through a monthly donation: Help us care for Marshmallow and Peanut by becoming a monthly sponsor. Recurring, monthly contributions support feed, shelter, and health costs — and come with sweet updates from your goat buddies! Click here to learn more.

• Get your Ticket to our Secret Garden Fundraiser: Join us for an evening of community, music, local food, and garden magic at our annual Secret Garden fundraiser! Your ticket supports hands-on learning experiences for students and helps sustain our growing organization. Get your ticket here.

• Spread the Word: Share this update with friends, family, or neighbors who might want to get involved. Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media. Every bit of community energy helps our program grow.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Whether through donations, time, or simply staying informed, your support makes a difference!