Mertens Farm

Mertens Farm is a fainting (myotonic) goat breeder in Ogema, MN, in northwestern Minnesota near Detroit Lakes. Heidi Mertens has raised fainting goats for many years, focusing on sound structure and balanced temperament. Her herd is enrolled in routine health programs covering parasite monitoring and hoof trimming, with veterinary checkups scheduled multiple times a year.

Kids spend their early weeks in a climate-controlled barn before moving to rotational pasture alongside other goats and sheep. The farm’s low-stress handling approach emphasizes daily socialization with family members, children and farm dogs to support calm, friendly temperaments. Sheltered run-in sheds and shaded paddocks offer protection through all seasons, and water sources are refreshed twice daily.

Seasonal kidding is overseen by experienced hands, ensuring each kid receives colostrum within hours of birth. Visitors often comment on the herd’s gentle nature and the clean, orderly environment that reflects the farm’s care philosophy.