Cathy and Chris Lammer are not your average entrepreneurs. They didn’t set out to be entrepreneurs at all – at least, not at first. The Lammers have always been enamored with nature along with their son, who has autism. He has always adored animals and the outdoors. As he approached adulthood, they had some decisions to make. So, they bought a yak.
And what started with a yak ended with a business.
“We bought our yaks three years ago after doing some research,” says Cathy Lammer. “We felt like yaks would be the best fit for our son since they are very social, easy keepers, leave a light environmental footprint and are odorless – definitely a bonus.”
After numerous social media posts full of the cuddly creatures, coupled with some neighborly curiosity, Cathy and Chris were receiving loads of requests to visit their yaks. Their son was also facing employment possibilities and the couple were considering what would be the most beneficial situation for his future. The rest seemed like kismet and the two resolved to go into agritourism, with a plan to open the doors to Woolly Yak Ranch & Winery in early 2025.
Woolly Yak Ranch & Winery sits on a vast expanse of 25 acres. The property is home to nine yaks, six Babydoll Southdown sheep and two Kunekune pigs. Amongst the farm and scenic views is the winery, currently offering a selection of six wines. The couple plans to expand their wine menu in the near future. Food selections include a variety of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and charcuterie cups.
“When guests visit Wooly Yak Ranch, they will be able to purchase wine by the glass or bottle, sit at a picnic table with friends and family, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of trees and a pond surrounded by lavender,” says Lammer.
The owners maintain a strict focus on environmentally sound practices, using regenerative agriculture, ecological farming, silvopasturing and agroforestry. The Lammers also utilize minimal tillage, crop rotation, rotational grazing and animal utilization for weeds. All of these practices are designed to leave a minimal carbon footprint.
“These practices are very important to us so that we can not only preserve the land, but improve the land for future generations,” says Lammer.
The ranch is also home to a vegetable garden, a pecan orchard, persimmon trees, a pawpaw orchard, lavender crops and several yurts nested throughout the property. Harvest celebrations will be held throughout the year with delicious treats, such as pawpaw shaved ice, available for purchase.
Families are invited to bring their children along to romp around the play area and take part in animal experiences and story time. Play areas blend in with the natural surroundings and there is also a basketball game in a gravity wagon. Hay wagon rides through the yak pasture will also be available during posted times. The Lammers have made great efforts to create a place where people can relax and enjoy a nature-friendly experience.
If you’re looking for a farmyard extravaganza, paired with Indiana wine and on-the-go charcuterie, all topped off with harvest celebrations, Woolly Yak Ranch & Winery needs to be added to your next staycation list.
To learn more about Woolly Yak Ranch & Winery, visit woollyyak.com.
