Fencing – Homestead on the Range

6 Tips for Protecting an Orchard from Deer

Because deer can jump to tremendous heights, excluding them from an orchard is not easy, even with a fence. Here are some options for deterring the deer.

Grazing Management by Species: Goats

Goats are true browsers, meaning they prefer to eat foliage above their shoulder height. This makes them great foragers of shrubs and small trees.

Grazing Management by Species: Sheep

While sheep consume grass as 60% of their diet, they more than any other type of livestock will also eat forbs (non-woody flowering plants, commonly known as “weeds”).

Grazing Management by Species: Swine

Swine are not exactly grazers. They will eat some grass, but they typically prefer legumes, weeds, roots, and other types of food.

What Really Ended the Cattle Drives?

The end of the cattle drive era was brought about by cattle that better met the needs of the market, plus a rail network that connected ranches with population centers.

Grazing Management by Species: Cattle

Cattle are the quintessential grazing animal, making them roughly equivalent to bison in the ecosystem.

Getting Started with Livestock Part 2: Fencing & Facilities

There really is no one right way to fence and shelter your animals. It’s a subject that will largely depend on your individual circumstances.

The Homesteading Bucket List Part 2: 25 More Practical Country Living Projects

Ready for 25 more skills to build on the ones you mastered previously? This set is more advanced than the first, so take your time.

Grazing Systems Planning Guide

Is the thought of planning a rotational or management-intensive grazing system daunting to you? If you are new to the concept, you will probably appreciate this free guide from the University of Minnesota Extension Service—Grazing Systems Planning Guide. The Grazing Systems Planning Guide is directed at beginners. It walks graziers through the planning process sequentially.Continue reading “Grazing Systems Planning Guide”

Storey’s Guide to Raising Dairy Goats

In Storey’s Guide to Raising Dairy Goats you will find answers to many of the questions you may have about getting started and advice on things you haven’t yet considered.