Prickly Pears Farm

Prickly Pears Farm raises San Clemente goats in Brookdale, CA, within Santa Cruz County near San Jose. Luis Marcello has over a decade of experience caring for heritage breeds and holds active membership in national goat health and breeding associations. Animals live on a wooded hillside pasture with year-round access to fresh water. Young stock receive daily handling to promote calm temperaments, and all goats undergo routine health screenings for common conditions.

Breeding goals focus on maintaining genetic diversity and hardiness, traits that made San Clemente goats prized for both milk and brush control. Seasonal rotation of paddocks on deep loam soil helps prevent parasite buildup and supports diverse forage growth. Visitors often comment on the relaxed social groups that allow each goat to exhibit natural behaviors, reflecting the farm’s respect for herd dynamics. The farm follows breed registry guidelines to ensure accurate lineage records and encourages ongoing education to refine its husbandry practices.