Goat, human cheese-makers welcome visitors to creamery

On Sunday, you can meet the goats that make Chattaroy Cheese – and the people who do the milking and mixing, too.

Chattaroy Cheese Co. is inviting the public to visit the creamery.

“It’s our way to let the public in and see how the cheese is made … (and) get a sense for what artisan cheese is all about,” said Becky Jasper, who co-owns the creamery with her husband.

“We’ve been really surprised by the amount of interest we’ve had in the past,” she said.

During the afternoon, visitors will learn about cheese-making, but probably won’t get to see much of the actual making. It’s a slow process, Jasper said.

“It’s so not a spectator sport,” she said.

Visitors will get to see inside the barns and talk with workers about milking the goats and other work at the creamery.

There will be music by Sue Hanna and face painting. Families are invited to bring picnics or buy sandwiches and salads made by Bistro Box, featuring Chattaroy Cheese. There are a few tables, Jasper said, and plenty of space to spread out blankets on the lawn.

After lunch, head down to the Little Spokane River on the farm’s paths.

And, yes, the goats will be available for petting.

“They’re goats, and they love the attention,” Jasper said.

Kimberly Lusk

When: Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday

Where: 23720 N. Crescent Road in Chattaroy. From Highway 395, turn east on Half Moon Road, left on North Perry Road, and take a slight right onto Crescent. The farm is on the right after 1.2 miles.

Info: www.chattaroycheese.com or (509) 238-9496

Admission: Free