Cow Milking + Natural Cheese Making with Heathar, Jen + Marcey
September 19, 2026
8am - 1pm
Location: Ojo Sarco, New Mexico
Join Heather and Jen for a morning of milking, connecting with our herd of Jersey cows, and experiencing the beauty of fresh milk straight from the source. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about our cows, their care, and the traditions of small-scale dairying while participating in the milking process firsthand.
After milking, Marcey will guide us through an Introduction to Natural Cheesemaking class, where you’ll learn how to transform fresh milk into handcrafted cheese. We’ll explore traditional cheesemaking techniques, enjoy a tasting of fresh milk and cheeses, and celebrate the simple magic of making food by hand. Each participant will leave with a quart of fresh milk and cheese to enjoy at home.
Please wear clothing and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. We recommend bringing a hat, water bottle, and any snacks you may need. Water will be available, along with dairy products for tasting. Fall temperatures in northern New Mexico can vary throughout the day, so please bring layers to stay comfortable.
Space is limited to eight participants.
Meet Your Workshop Facilitators
Heathar
Heathar is a farmer, educator, and lifelong student of traditional foodways. As the steward of their Jersey herd, Heathar brings years of hands-on experience in animal care, milking, and small-scale dairy production. Her classes invite students into a deeper relationship with the animals and the timeless practices that connect us to our food.
Jen
Jen is a farmer, writer, and space holder devoted to the relationship between people, place, and the living world. Drawing from her background in counseling, storytelling, and community building, Jen tends the container of each gathering — creating a grounded, supportive space where participants can learn, connect, and experience the deeper meaning behind these ancient practices.
Marcey
Marcey E. Shapiro, MD is an integrative family physician who combines both conventional Western medicine and complementary therapies. She has expertise in many treatment modalities, in addition to Western medicine, including Western, Chinese and Ayurvedic Herbal medicine, Osteopathic Manual Medicine, Homeopathy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Flower Essences and more. Marcey is passionate about helping her patients feels well in their bodies through food. She is a master gardener and chef, educated in traditional cheese making methods and enjoys sharing her skills with her community.