As many have heard, the USDA have released a new rule regarding antibiotics for animal use. This rule went into effect last month on June 11, 2023. For animal owners, this means that all antibiotics purchases will require a veterinary prescription. These antibiotics have to be purchased from a licensed pharmacy and they are no … Read more
The Livestock Project at the Center for Food Security and Public Health is offering FIVE new (free) RACE-approved continuing education courses (up to 7 credits) in organic and alternative animal health. The course includes: Overview of organic and alternative animal health (first offered in 2022) Prevention and organic and alternative animal health Rules and … Read more
Cleaning and disinfection are important to protect your animals, business, and customers. For conventional farms, there are many synthetic products available to kill microorganisms. However, there are strict rules about what can and cannot be used for organic and alternative farms. Read on to learn more about how to properly protect your organic/alternative farm! Cleaning, … Read more
Even without your knowledge, things that can be toxic to animals might be lying around on your farm, in barns, pastures, or even in water. Identifying and preventing possible toxins for your livestock and identifying signs of poisoning is important. Plants There could be plants growing in your pasture or in swampy areas that can … Read more
In 1981, the Farming Systems Trial (FST) was launched by the Rodale Institute to research organic agriculture management and agricultural design systems to improve the planet. Recent research done by the FST has shown how regenerative organic agriculture outperforms conventional grain cropping systems during times of extreme weather. As farmers continue to deal with crop … Read more
Whether you have many visitors on your farm or not, having appropriate signage is important for many reasons. From emergencies to agritourism, signage can help keep your family and visitors safe. Proper signage can also reduce liability in case of an accident or illness. Agritourism Agritourism is critical to educate the public about agriculture and … Read more
On February 22nd, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a draft guidance on the appropriate labeling of plant-based products sold as alternatives to milk. These alternatives include “soy milk”, “almond milk”, and “coconut milk”, which are commonly seen by consumers in stores. This recommendation will help provide the food industry with clear labeling, … Read more
One thing no one ever wants to find is a down cow on their farm. Cattle that are too weak and unable to stand can easily become a target for predators, especially out on pasture. Moving quickly and attending to the animal as soon as possible is important. 5 M’s of Down Cows If you … Read more
You will need clean, dry, warm areas for your new babies, especially in cold and wet weather. Winter can make it especially difficult to monitor young animals’ health status, and bringing them inside may be necessary. While cattle are hardier than sheep and goats, calves are still susceptible to the cold. Having areas sheltered from the … Read more
With emerging diseases, a changing climate, and concerns about feeding a growing population, organic and alternative producers face many challenges. Fortunately, farmers worldwide are getting a helping hand from an unexpected friend. Dung beetles are an often-overlooked part of agriculture, but their benefits are beginning to become unearthed. With over 6,000 species of dung beetles … Read more