Have you ever stood in the grocery store looking at meat, milk, or eggs and wondered what labels like natural, organic, grass-fed, pasture-raised, or regenerative really mean? If so, you’re not alone. Food labels can be confusing, and sometimes it’s hard to tell the difference between marketing and meaningful standards. Many labels reflect good farming … 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
What are flight zones? Most small farmers know about the flight zone—an animal’s personal space that causes it to move away when someone gets too close. But knowing how to use the flight zone can make moving livestock easier, safer, and less stressful for both you and your livestock. Animal behavior expert Temple Grandin has … 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
As spring quickly approaches, you may be wondering how to protect your newborn livestock from diseases. This post might help you better understand how immunity works and what you can do to help your newborns thrive. The Importance of Colostrum and Passive Immunity Unlike human babies, livestock are born with little to no immunity to … 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
A lot goes into keeping your equines healthy! This post describes some basic practices to help you provide the best care possible for the equine species on your farm. Did you know that equines include horses, donkeys, mules, miniature horses, hinnies, ponies, and even zebras! Basic Health Practices Feed and Water Water is the most … Read more