Family-friendly farm in Byron Center, MI
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Spreading JOY with Pygmy Goats™
Our Story
Parkside Farm located in Byron Center, MI was founded by Nicole Zaagman in 2021. Parkside Farm is a by appointment only farm named for its “park-like” setting filled with trees and natural beauty. In the spring, trees are tapped to make maple syrup, available at the Farm Market. The farm features a registered pygmy goat herd utilized for the Jump for JOY Program™.
The Jump for JOY Program™ has traveled Michigan to events in Byron Center, Lowell, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, Marshall, Muskegon, Wyoming and more. Focused on impacting the next generation through farm education and a line of adorable pygmy goat gifts, products and children’s storybooks, Nicole encourages families to engage with their local farms and farmers.
Parkside Farm offers overnight farm stays for up to 10 guests and by appointment only farm tours and classes, photography sessions and pygmy goat visits for special events such as school visits, assisted living enrichment, festivals and birthday parties. Passionate about preserving agriculture, the prayer is for the Lord to use Parkside Farm as a means to spread JOY with others.
But Jesus looked at them
and said,“With man this is impossible, but with God
all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26 NIV
Pygmy Goats
Children's Storybook
In 2022, Nicole Zaagman authored and photo-illustrated a storybook about baby Samson the pygmy goat. Samson was born at Parkside Farm 10/28/22. A little miracle, Samson's storybook and his cute merchandise has gone on to spread joy to those of all ages around the world.
AGS & NPGA Pygmy Goats
Parkside Farm animals are dual registered with the AGS and NPGA. Shipping pygmy goat semen nationwide. Registered with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Michigan Office official Goat Scrapie ID program, Flock ID# MIK2048/Premise ID# 00QX7VA.
Pygmy Goat Program
Farm Founder, Nicole Zaagman offers the Jump for JOY Program™ utilizing pygmy goats, farm education and art activities helping participants build social skills, experience JOY and relieve stress. You can book a mobile pygmy goat visit for an upcoming special event or celebration.
Testimonials
"I just wanted to let you know that the farm tour was considered a huge success for our Cadet club. I wasn't sure how much they would like it, but it was a big hit. You heard one participant say that he wants Parkside Farm to be an outing for us every year. I think others felt the same. Thanks again, for showing us all the interesting aspects of your farm, and especially you goats. Thanks too, for your testimony during the presentation. It really reinforces everything we try to teach the Cadets all year. "
- Agricultural Farm Tour Client
"Our 3 kids can be pretty uncooperative for photos, but Nicole handled it so well! She was patient and ready for moment when they finally all looked AND smiled. The goats were also very calming for my sensory needs kiddo. The property is beautiful with several great photo locations. I am very happy with how the photos turned out! "
- Farm Photography Session Client
"Everyone loved the goats! It was such a great addition to our mother’s day program. Everyone enjoyed learning about the goats and interacting with the pygmy goats. It was interesting to learn about what pygmy goats eat, comeback in terms of popularity in Michigan, and care/routines. The residents are still talking about the goats! Definitely book Nicole and her goats! Nicole does a great job interacting with the crowd and answering questions and the goats are entertaining and adorable!"
- Jump for JOY Program™ Client
"We absolutely loved having you and your goat! It was a great addition to our Easter Eggstravaganza event. It was definitely engaging and we would absolutely recommend you in the future."
- The Learning Experience - Jenison Location
"I REALLY appreciate you and the pygmy goats coming for my son's 1st birthday. The kids loved it and my son loved it. You, Samuel and Belle made the birthday party super special!"
- Birthday Party Client - Grand Rapids, MI