Raw milk can be complicated topic. Some people choose it because they like the taste, freshness, or the idea of a less-processed product. For small farmers, raw milk can also be part of the farm business. At the same time, raw milk and products made from it can carry foodborne illness risks. The goal is … Read more
Choosing the right animal for your farm is a big decision to make, and one that can have a lasting impact on your operation’s success. Whether you are expanding your herd, replacing livestock, or just starting out, it’s important to look beyond first impressions. Is the animal healthy? Will it meet your goals and serve … Read more
Droughts have always been part of farming and ranching, but many small livestock owners are experiencing longer, hotter, or more frequent dry periods than they remember from years past. Whatever the reason, drought can affect your pasture, your livestock, and your bottom line. The good news is that planning ahead can help reduce its impact … Read more
Farmers across the country are living the reality of the rural veterinary shortage. It’s something you feel when a call goes unanswered, when the nearest vet clinic is hours away, or when routine animal care turns into a logistical challenge. The shortage affects both new and experienced farmers, and it adds stress to an already … Read more
Have you ever wondered how diseases spread between animals—or even from animals to people? What if you could learn about that in a way that feels more like solving a mystery than sitting in a classroom? Blue Not Flu is a free, online learning program designed for school-age youth. It teaches important ideas about animal … Read more
Sometimes a newborn livestock baby just won’t nurse, and suddenly you’re the one on bottle duty! Whether a mom rejected her little one or a twin needs an extra boost, raising these bottle babies is a unique adventure full of wagging tails and 2:00 AM feedings. It might seem overwhelming at first, but with the … Read more
Deciding to go Organic Raising organic livestock isn’t for everyone. In a truly local food system where consumers know the farmer and their practices, going organic may not be necessary. Yet some farmers find going organic financially rewarding and in line with their and their customers’ values. This post gives a very brief description of the … Read more
Lice in animals can be a common problem during winter. Many farmers deal with heavyinfestations that can cause unthriftiness, reduce weight gain, and lead to economic losses.Lice affect many livestock species, including cattle, swine, poultry, sheep, and goats.Different types of lice infect humans. Animals do not carry or spread human lice. What are lice? Lice … Read more
We are thrilled to announce the publication of the free book through the Iowa State University Press. The book was written by veterinarians Katie Steneroden, Jenna Bjork, and Delaine Quaresma, with contributions from experts in the organic and alternative livestock industry, government, extension, and producers themselves. About the Book The book originated as a continuing … Read more
Many farmers struggle to keep water troughs thawed during the winter months, when temperatures fall below freezing. No one wants to have to break the ice daily – it takes up valuable time that most farmers don’t have. In this post, we describe some simple and cost-effective ideas to ensure your livestock have access to … Read more