Category: Organic

New Book from The Livestock Project: Organic and Alternative Livestock Health: A Guide for Veterinarians, Extension, Animal Health Workers, and Animal Owners

January 21, 2026January 20, 2026 by The Livestock Project

Organic and alternative livestock health Guide Cover

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

Healing with Honey

December 26, 2025 by The Livestock Project

Honey has been used for its healing properties in humans and animals for over 4,000 years. Today, its use in human wound clinics is mainstream. Its use in veterinary medicine may not be as common, but its healing benefits, lower cost, and role in helping prevent antimicrobial resistance might make it a practice option worth … Read more

Small Farms Animal Health Survey

December 3, 2025November 21, 2025 by The Livestock Project

Lamb standing on a hill in brown grassy field.

Small farms matter! Over the coming year, The Livestock Conservancy and the Center for Food Security and Public Health at Iowa State University will develop practical animal health information made for YOU. Together, we hope to create better tools for small farmers and especially breeders, to help keep animals healthy, and to know what to … Read more

Animals for Beginning Small Farmers

October 7, 2025 by The Livestock Project

Deciding to bring animals onto your small farm can be exciting. It can also be overwhelming. Here are some things to think about while deciding what animals you will raise. First, Do Your Research Animals to Consider Chickens Pros: Raising chickens can be a great introduction to keeping animals. They are relatively easy to … Read more

Livestock Lameness for Organic and Alternative Farms

October 2, 2025July 9, 2024 by The Livestock Project

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

Goal Setting for Organic and Alternative Farms

October 2, 2025January 11, 2023 by The Livestock Project

Elderly man takes notes outside a pig pen in a shed.

As we move into the new year, this is a time of reflection for farm and ranch families. A time to celebrate successes, acknowledge the difficulties, and plan for the new year. This reflection can allow for goal setting to be prioritized as well. It can be easy to talk about plans for the future … Read more