Been a while...

So, it has been a while since I have posted. It has been a crazy summer. Lots of rain that ruined the garden. Then a period of non-stop heat. Now, a mix. The Farmer's Almanac is claiming another bad winter. With that said, we are actively (and have been) trying to find solutions for problems that we experienced last year in regards to water sourcing for the animals.


Finding solutions that require some form of electricity are always interesting when you have any size farm. For us, we have multiple areas setup for our different live stock to live and range. Each requires a water source of some kind. Over the years, our animal population has grown, compounding the need for water procurement during the winter. Stretching power cables is now not an option. Combining herds is complete but we still need the solve for how to keep water flowing in the freezing temperatures.


Some solutions are to add more power lines and power sources. Not genuinely feasible where I am. I have been researching solar solutions. It should prove interesting.


With things related to winter prep, I ordered additional winter coats for the goats in the early spring. Last winter consisted of -10 degree weather. Goats are extremely susceptible to pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses so keeping them warm is super important. Chickens aren't as worrisome as they prefer cooler weather over warm.




For the humans of the house, we opted to install a wood stove this year. It was a costly investment that will have return. The weather for us was harsh as we were without power for water for 7 days due to freezing; we lose power frequently, so the goal is to prepare for both.


What are you doing to prepare for winter?


Here are some really great links to help in making arrangements for colder weather:


http://www.motherearthnews.com/homesteading-and-livestock/winter-on-the-farm-zmaz76ndztak.aspx


www.grit.com/animals/preparing-for-winter.aspx


www.southernstates.com/articles/preparing-livestock-farm-for-winter.aspx