SouthboroBelties.org

Note: If you’d like to donate to the cow fund, the Paypal link on the upper right of this page makes it easy. You can also mail a check to Breakneck Hill Cow Fund, P.O. Box 343, Southborough, MA 01772.

Thank you for visiting the Breakneck Hill Cow Fund (BHCF) website and update. Almost 10 years ago the BHCF, a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization was formed to buy hay for the belted galloway cows owned by Farmer Ray Davis. Now, the BHCF owns the cows and has an expanded mission not only to care and maintain a community herd of cows in Southborough, but also to promote and celebrate Southborough’s agricultural history and the importance of local farming.

Over the years we have strived to improve the overall health and genetic diversity of the herd. In the past we have invited summer visitors, like Zeus, a Nationally registered bull, to impregnate our cows. Last year, George, a less physically impressive bull but with good references, came to summer on the Breakneck Hill Conservation land and we are please to write that we have 7 new calves this season with 3 more expected. They join 12 cows and 1 steer that graze on the hills of the conservation land.

The cows enthusiastically went over to the conservation land from their winter paddock, in late April where they graze throughout the warm weather. The rain and optimal growing weather has made keeping up with the grasses a struggle. 4 paddocks have been created in the pasture to help the cows better maintain the grasses and support grass regeneration. Rotating the herd through these paddocks also ensures that the cows have access to a healthier food supply.

The BHCF continues its dedication to community outreach and education. We depend on volunteer work from youth groups and enthusiastic adults looking for an opportunity to connect with their “inner farmer”. We thoroughly enjoy our visits from preschool groups, scout troops, and people passing by. We greatly appreciate the help from local groups and individuals in helping to feed the cows throughout the winter, putting up fences, and many other cow related activities. Without your help, we could not continue to have the herd of belted galloway cows.

The BHCF raises money to purchase hay and maintain the herd through a series of fund-raising events; all money raised goes directly to this purpose. Last year, we hosted a poker tournament, sponsored a “Cow Day” in October holding a race through the conservation land and a “Cow Pie” contest, and had a booth at the annual Heritage Day Celebration. We are finding that the economic conditions are resulting in a reduction in donations. We just sent out a postcard fund-raising campaign to over 2,000 local residents and businesses. We find ourselves with less than $300 in our account at a time when we need to secure winter hay.

The Breakneck Hill Conservation land is a Metrowest treasure with winding pastoral trails, varied wildlife, and summit views of Mt. Wachusetts. The belted galloways grazing on the hills offer families and hikers so many benefits; please help us keep them healthy and happy!

Thank you,

Laurie Bourdon, President
Chris Molinaro, Vice-President
Joyce Greenleaf, Secretary & Treasurer
Paul Bourdon, Operations Manager
Russ Devlin, Website Manager