Organic Pasture Management

Beef cows graze on lush green grass in the morning sun.

For organic and alternative farmers, grazing animals is a large part of their feed program. Pasture is convenient and allows for diversified grazing of lands that may not be useful for raising crops. It is important to carefully manage your pastures to prevent overgrazing, soil depletion, and health problems. With proper care, your pastures can … Read more

Farmers and Mental Health

A silhouette of a tractor and tree in the evening orange light.

Farming and ranching are incredibly demanding. Many producers spend their time taking care of their livestock and crops and dealing with the difficulties of such a large burden. It is important to recognize this job’s burden on farmers. Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how they handle stress, work with others, … Read more

Immunocompromised people and livestock

Old man holds a lamb while young girl pets it in a barn.

 Ever wonder what they mean when they say immune compromised? It is important to understand to protect yourself, your loved ones, farm visitors, and workers.   What does immunocompromised mean?  Immune compromised means your immune system isn’t working as well as it should. This can happen for many different reasons. Factors like age or medical treatments, … Read more

Good nutrition helps organic and alternatively raised livestock thrive

Two piglets munch on grass in the warm morning sun.

Good nutrition is vital to keeping your livestock healthy and happy. Good nutrition directly impacts body condition score, fertility, and milk or egg productivity. A healthy diet also contributes to the ability of your livestock’s immune system to fight disease. Keep in mind your species, age, and health needs. Your climate is a factor too. … Read more

Direct contact and disease spread

Two sheep touch noses on a pasture.

No matter the size of your herd or flock, diseases can be spread by animals in contact with each other and with you.   How are diseases spread through direct contact?  For a disease to be spread through direct contact, there must be a disease agent in the environment on an infected animal. Animals become exposed … Read more

Monkeypox

Monkey sits on a branch in a leafy area.

A disease you may have heard about in the news recently is Monkeypox. Monkeypox is rare and relatively unknown in the U.S. If you work with non-human primates, you may be more familiar with this disease. There are currently 460 reported cases of Monkeypox in the U.S. as of July 1, 2022. Health officials are … Read more

Keeping your hands clean on your farm

handwashing station attached to the side of the barn

Hand washing is very important when working on a farm or ranch. While it sounds too easy, hand washing is one of the easiest and best ways to protect your animals, yourself, and those on your farm from disease-causing organisms. Stations should be set up around the premises, so employees and visitors can wash their … Read more