News

Winter is no vacation from farming – there are essential tasks that all farmers need to do throughout the winter to ensure a productive and profitable spring. While there are different concerns for livestock farming and crop farming, all farmers have plenty to keep busy with during the coldest months. Winter Livestock Farming Whether a farmer keeps cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry or any other type of livestock, when those animals are part of their livelihood, it is essential to give them proper winter care. Critical winter tasks for livestock farmers include… Keeping Adequate Feed on Hand Animals need more food...

Whether you farm just a few acres, raise any type of livestock or oversee a large commercial agricultural operation, your barn is a critical structure in winter. It shelters your stock from cold, protects your gear from snow and ice and stores supplies for storms. Because it is such an important part of your farm, it is necessary to be sure your barn is ready for winter, and the right winterizing can ensure your barn fulfills all its winter tasks with ease. 15 Must-Do Tasks to Prepare Your Barn for Winter Proper barn winterizing can begin as early as late...

Chickens are a surprisingly resilient bird where winter is concerned. This is especially true if your poultry belongs to one of the winter-hardy breeds such as Blue Andalusian, Dominique, Brahma, or Plymouth Rocks. Still, if a chicken coop is mismanaged or in poor shape during winter, the biting cold can  bring about disease and sure death to its occupants. Among the multitude of improvements and reinforcements you should make to prepare your chickens for winter, the following tips are the most essential to keep in mind. Good Air Flow Ensuring that your chickens stay warm during winter is paramount, but...

It is generally accepted that finding the right horseshoe is extremely important for riding in temperate climates in the winter. Riding outdoors in the winter demands a special type of shoe that prevents your horse from serious injury. A variety of different factors must be taken into account when getting your horse shod for winter. First and foremost consider the natural shape of your horse’s hooves, and the type of terrain on the riding property. Keep in mind the horse’s winter riding experience and whether an injury or coordination issue exists. If your horse’s bare hooves are naturally balanced, then...

Molting is an essential part of chickens’ growth and health, but losing and replacing feathers is also a messy, stressful process. Taking steps to help chickens with molting can minimize the stress and keep your backyard flock happy and healthy. About Molting All chickens molt to replace old, broken, and worn out feathers with fresh plumage that will provide better insulation. Young chickens typically have several juvenile molts as they grow to their full size, but won’t begin their regular seasonal molts until they are 12-18 months old. Mature chickens will molt once or twice a year, often with one...