Zhi-ba Shing-ga Yaks

The mission of Zhi-ba Shing-ga Yaks (it means "Peace Farm" in Tibetan), is:
1. To establish a breeding herd of high quality foundation yaks, with offspring available for purchase.
2. To establish a meat producing herd and market yak steers at 700-1000 pounds.
3. To raise yak bulls with good growth and size genetics for the purpose of cross-breeding with local beef cattle.
4. To harvest, promote, and market yak fiber to fiber artisans.
4. To promote yaks as a means of rural economic development in Eastern Kentucky.

Full grown bulls weigh from 1000-1800 pounds. Steers weigh between 700-900 pounds, and . cows weigh between 500-800 pounds. Yak meat is highly desirable, higher in protein and lower in fat than beef. It has a similar taste to beef, but purer and sweeter. The meat sells for over $12 per pound for ground burger to nearly $60 per pound for specialty cuts.
Yaks may be bred to cattle, if desired, to upgrade the quality of the meat.
Yak fiber is considered a luxury fiber, of higher quality than cashmere, extremely soft and warm. Yak yarn, depending on the amount of yak fiber used if mixed with other fibers, sells from $15-$40 per ounce.
Yak cows may be milked, and the yak butter and cheese have high market potential.