AMHERST — A small farm in Amherst near the Hadley town line is accepting Christmas trees, with ornaments and tinsel removed, to feed a half-dozen goats.

Michelle Chandler, who has six Nigerian dwarf goats at her farm, said that people are welcome to drop off their trees in her yard.

The five does are expecting kids in the spring, while the one buck continues to grow, she said.

“In a time of year when the pasture is dormant and their diet consists of hay, these fresh greens are a delicacy for the goats,” Chandler said.

The trees, she said, have pine needles rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and the bark is filled with minerals. The goats will be able to consume most of the trees.

Those who drop off their trees can do so at 326 West Pomeroy Lane, and should put them as far across the front lawn toward the pasture fence as they are able. That will allow room for others interested in disposing of their trees in the same manner.

In the past, Chandler has received enough trees to keep the goats well fed into late spring.

Scott Merzbach can be reached at smerzbach@gazettenet.com.]]>