While beekeeping is an endeavor that many can take on, but there are many important considerations to protect the bee’s safety and wellbeing. Some obvious reasons to consider beekeeping are fresh honey, beeswax, pollination of gardens and orchards, and a love of bees. Just like the organic production of meat, milk, and eggs, the production … Read more
For many, getting on the road with livestock in a trailer can be stressful. When it comes to accidents involving livestock, situations can easily become chaotic. Many who respond to these emergencies, such as police, firefighters, or EMS, have little to no livestock handling experience. Below are a few tips to aid in reacting to … Read more
One thing that many fear is the unexpected – especially when it could affect your farm and livestock. There are ways to prepare for a disaster and its aftermath. If you are a farmer or rancher looking to create one of those plans, check out some tips and resources below! Farm Information When planning for an … Read more
Organic and alternative livestock farmers often struggle to find veterinarians who practice non-conventional medicine. The Livestock Project recognizes the importance of giving a shout-out to veterinarians doing just that! This week, we would like to introduce you to Dr. Alaina Kringen-Scholtz (Dr. Lainie) of Twin Lakes Animal Clinic in Madison, South Dakota. Background Dr. Lainie … Read more
Spanish resources about common husbandry practices can be difficult to find for many farms with Hispanic managers or workers. Having resources readily available to your workers can be a huge benefit. Posting factsheets and protocols can make checking practices much easier. If you are looking to provide additional training to bilingual workers, check out the … Read more
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
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
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 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
Most everyone has heard of rabies, especially as a danger to your pets. But rabies can affect your herd, your pets, and you. It is important to understand and take precautions to protect those important to you. What is rabies? Rabies is a preventable but dangerous disease. Rabies is deadly and affects all mammals, humans … Read more