Food Preparation: Butchering

As much of our meat comes pre-wrapped and readied for consumption, it is easy to feel desensitized to the process of slaughtering and butchering an animal. Yet, it is important to be cognizant of the choice we make each time we each select an animal product to be a part of our meals. By remaining connected to the meat we consume and understanding how an animal was raised and cared for, we bridge the gap between food and consumer. One way to do this is to participate in each step of the process.

Whether you are a hunter, homesteader or just someone who eats meat, this 4 hour class will provide instruction for each component of animal processing, demystifying the process through hands-on demonstration utilizing traditional methods. Among the topics for discussion are understanding animal anatomy, various techniques of preparation, best practices for hanging, curing and cooking and how to use the animal in its entirety. 

A locally raised goat will be the focus of the demonstration and serve as an analogue for a deer. Keep in mind that the animal will be slaughtered 30 minutes before the start time of class. Please plan your arrival time according to whether or not you prefer to participate in this portion of the instruction. At the end of class, participants will be invited to take home some cuts of the meat prepared during instruction.

About the Instructor

Wilson Alvarez is a certified permaculture designer, inventor, gardener, skilled tracker, bowyer, nature-awareness instructor, and writer from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. For the past twelve years, he has studied and taught classes and workshops on bio-intensive agriculture, regenerative technology, foraging, hunting, trapping, tracking, and wilderness survival. Wilson has studied through the Wilderness Awareness School via the Kamana program, and he received his Permaculture Design Certificate via Susquehanna Permaculture.

Health and Safety

This class will take place outdoors. Please check the weather in advance and dress accordingly. Be prepared for walking on uneven terrain and potentially snowy and/or muddy conditions. 

All programs are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances including inclement weather. Participants will receive an email in the days preceding the program for any changes or cancellations. You can review our current Cancellation and Refund Policy here. 

Parking takes place in the field above the farmhouse.