Testimonials

“The Draft Animal Power Network has been my go to comprehensive knowledge pool for all things involving Draft Power. Just perusing the daily conversations happening on the Draft Animal Power (DAP) Discussion group over the years, I’ve gained a good understanding and continue to learn in a sort of “online” immersion way, en lieu of a mentor. Most impactful for me have been my opportunities to go  to the DAP Field Days, where I’ve been able to experience demonstrations and get some hands on help which has really propelled me forward in my draft power endeavors! The friendships made through this network have given me a valued sense of belonging with those who share a passion for working with animals in a purposeful way.”
Christina Castellanos, AK

“I attended my first DAPNet Field Days in October of 2019, and instantly felt like I belonged. This group is bountiful with knowledge, experience, and a love for sustainable agriculture and living. Land, forest, and using animals to get things done. One of the best organizations to be a part of, support, and learn at. Highly recommend!”
- Anne Clary, WI

“Shortly after I became a teamster and longer before I discovered DAPNet, I realized the importance of being connected to a broader community. Not born or raised into this vocation, it literally took a draft horse club to get me over the first hurdles. With Dapnet I discovered my opportunity to begin to give back. This has led me on a great journey to find that sharing this craft is now the most important part to me. I always strive to include both people and draft animals in my work whenever I can.”
- Donn Hewes, NY

“I was a new farmer from Belgrade Maine when I attended my first North East Animal-Power Field Days in Tunbridge, VT. I brought along my 3 young children. I was growing vegetables and cut flowers on our farm and I knew I wanted  to use only animal power. My kids have been with me throughout the years attending DAPNet events that continue to be a sense of community, family and a safe space to bring forth questions knowing I will always get a variety of answers. Thank you DAPNet for helping me make my dream come true of being an animal powered farm.” - Mary Perry, ME

“Draft Animal Power Network has given me a reliable and enriching community space, where I’ve been able to thrive as a growing teamster. Through DAPNet I’ve been greeted by some of the most outstanding and trustworthy people. I’ve made lifelong friendships through the organization that I’ll forever be grateful for. Every event has felt like coming home, the love of working with our animals brings us all together, and the access to knowledge sharing has been unbeatable. I don’t think I would be the teamster, teacher, or person that I am today if it wasn’t for this incredible group of animal power enthusiasts.”
Sara Dougherty, NY

“DAPNet and the Northeast Animal-Power Field Days have had a huge impact on my life. At first it was exposure to what was possible with draft animals, then as I met folks, I really began my education in becoming a teamster. These connections led to my dream of having a draft animal powered market garden. I have made life long relationships, and any time we gather, it always feels like family no matter where we meet up.”
Erika Marczak, VT