Herdshare Programs — Find Cow & Goat Shares Near You
A herdshare program lets you access fresh raw milk legally — even in states that prohibit direct raw milk sales. By purchasing partial ownership of a dairy animal, you receive your share of the milk as an owner rather than a buyer. Browse herdshare programs by state below.
How a Herdshare Works
Buy a Share
You purchase a fractional ownership stake in a cow, goat, or herd for a one-time buy-in fee (typically $50–$150). This makes you a legal part-owner of the animal.
Pay Boarding Fees
The farmer boards, feeds, and milks your animal. You pay a regular boarding fee (weekly or monthly) to cover care and labor — typically $7–$15 per half-gallon of milk you receive.
Receive Your Milk
Pick up your fresh raw milk weekly at the farm or an approved pickup location. The milk belongs to you as the animal owner — you are not "buying" milk.
Always read the herdshare contract carefully and verify that the program complies with your state’s specific laws before joining.
States with Herdshare Programs
Herdshare programs are available in 21 states. Click a state to browse available programs.
Herdshare Frequently Asked Questions
What is a herdshare?
A herdshare is a legal agreement where a consumer purchases partial ownership of a dairy animal (or a share of a herd). The farmer boards, cares for, and milks the animal. The owner receives their proportional share of the milk. Because the consumer owns the animal, they receive their own milk rather than purchasing it — which is legal in more states than outright raw milk sales.
How does a cow share work?
A cow share works in three steps: First, you sign a herdshare contract purchasing a fractional ownership stake. Second, you pay a regular boarding fee to the farmer to cover feed, care, and labor. Third, you pick up your weekly milk allocation at the farm or an approved pickup location. The milk you receive is legally yours — not a product you are buying.
How much does a herdshare cost?
A typical cow share involves a one-time buy-in of $50–$150 for your ownership stake, plus a weekly boarding fee of $7–$15 per half-gallon of milk. This works out to roughly $14–$30 per gallon — more expensive than farm-gate raw milk, reflecting the legal structure and ongoing care costs.
Is a herdshare legal in my state?
Herdshare programs are legally recognized in approximately 21 states. Some states explicitly authorize herdshares by statute; others operate under contract law with no specific prohibition. Check our state-by-state legal guide and always verify your state’s specific rules before joining a program.
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