September is organic month!

Dairy herd on pasture

As an organic farmer, you know the benefits of raising livestock organically. In this post, we celebrate and hope to raise awareness of the benefits of organic agriculture for everyone! What does “organic” mean? The National Organic Program (NOP) describes organic ag as an approach that seeks to understand how all parts of the system … Read more

Stay Alert and Protect Your Farm from New World Screwworm

Screwworm larva in an open wound on a deer leg

On the farm, arthropods like flies, mosquitoes, mites, and ticks can be more than a nuisance—they can carry diseases, damage hides and wool, and even cause death. You’ve probably heard about New World Screwworm (NWS) in the news. Once nearly eradicated from North America, NWS has been recently detected in Central America and Mexico. Northward … Read more

Biosecurity at the fair – 5 tips

Two youth handling chickens at a fair exhibit

Steps to help protect livestock and poultry health Fairs are a great chance for youth to learn leadership, community, and real-world skills. The importance of biosecurity while showing animals during fair season cannot be stressed enough. Consider the following before heading to the fair this year. More important tips can be found below. Resources Bring … Read more

Calving: Knowing When to Intervene 

A black and white cow licks and cleans a recently born black calf on a dirt lot.

The calving season comes with many unknowns, including weather, timing, and much more. Livestock producers also know you can rarely predict when cows will calve – though it usually seems to coincide with poor weather. Being prepared can make the difference in having a live or a dead calf. It is also important to know … Read more

Reproductive Health for Livestock 

A tan cow nuzzles a dark brown calf.

For many farms, effective reproduction is crucial for success. Keeping your animals healthy and able to reproduce increases productivity and improves the herd’s overall health. Good reproduction management results in higher birth rates, healthier young animals, and a more efficient herd. Open livestock, which are females that are not pregnant, are common on farms. While … Read more

Electrolytes for Livestock 

Cow mister in pasture

Especially during the summer heat, your livestock can be easily stressed and more prone to illness. Supportive therapies, such as electrolytes and fluid therapy, can assist with keeping animals healthy. Electrolytes can be crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of livestock, especially those with weakened immune systems or dehydration.   Electrolytes can be used for … Read more

Livestock Lameness for Organic and Alternative Farms 

A photo of two front hooves of a cow.

No matter the type of farm, lameness in livestock can happen at any time without any warning. Lameness can be a significant concern and one of the costliest diseases farmers can deal with. Organic and alternative farms prioritize animal welfare, natural living conditions, and minimize the use of chemicals and antibiotics, which can present unique … Read more

Understanding A2A2 Milk 

Jersey calf with a green ear tag lies in straw

Over the past ten years, A2A2 milk has continued gaining popularity with consumers, dairy cattle farms, and producers. A2A2 milk is marketed differently in stores, claiming it is easier to digest and improves health. Some dairy cattle farms select genetics that include the A2A2 gene to develop a completely A2A2 herd. Understanding what the A2 … Read more

Avian influenza in dairy cows – what organic and alternative producers need to know

Ducks flying over water

As many may have heard, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been found in dairy cattle in multiple states around the United States. Dairy cattle on a farm in Texas first showed unusual symptoms, including an unexpected drop in milk production, thick colostrum-like milk, and changes in manure consistency. On March 25, 2024, the United … Read more