Hello Reader, Thinking about starting a backyard flock? This guide on buying chicks covers everything you need to know, from hatcheries to farm stores, to help you make the best choice for your new feathered friends. Ready to hatch your own chicks? It’s easier than you think! We’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of incubating chicken eggs, from selecting fertile eggs to ensuring optimal temperature and humidity. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned chicken keeper, this guide will...
20 days ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, Spring is almost here, and we’re thrilled to announce something special for all homegrown entrepreneurs: the Grassroots Entrepreneurs Spring Training is happening March 4-7. This FREE online training is packed with expert insights to help you build a thriving farm-based business. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your existing operation, this event is for you. Here’s what you can look forward to: Grassroots Entrepreneurs Spring Training Highlights: Learn from...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, Curious about keeping pygmy goats? These pint-sized charmers are not only adorable but also hardy and easy to care for. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly pet or a productive addition to your backyard, discover everything you need to know about their care, diet, and housing. Who can resist a chicken that lays pastel blue eggs? Ameraucana chickens are as delightful as they are practical, offering a sweet temperament and unique aesthetic. Learn how to care for these...
about 1 month ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, Thinking about adding goats to your homestead? This article covers essential information for prospective goat owners. From their long lifespan to their social nature and specific housing needs, you'll learn crucial facts to ensure you're well-prepared for these charming and mischievous creatures. Discover the joys and challenges of raising peafowl on your property. This article explores the history of peafowl keeping, their unique characteristics, and practical advice for their...
3 months ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, Thinking about getting some ducks for your farm? Before you jump in, read what Rebekah Pierce of J&R Pierce Family Farm has to say about the negatives she wishes she had known before she got ducks—and also why they're still 100% worth the trouble! Chickens can be a good addition to a farm—they're generally easy to care for and pay you back with fresh eggs and meat. But they do require some planning before you bring home your first brood. Here are some considerations and pro-tips...
3 months ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, How long does a goat live? As I often say, it depends! Find out the average lifespan for a healthy goat, and which lives longer—buck or doe. Also find out how long they can reasonably be bred and several factors that can put your goat's long lifespan on the line. Cats are a popular choice to help control rodent problems in the barn, but they aren't necessarily a set-it-and-forget-it approach to the problem. They often seem to disappear or outright die. I'm sharing my tips so you...
3 months ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, In this month's issue, I am sharing all the highlights and top takeaways from my awesome trip to the American Dairy Goat Association conference which took place in Wisconsin last month. Check out this playlist to discover interesting points on a variety of topics such as research on intersex goats, the current spread of HPAI (highly pathogenic avian influenza) into goats, the existence of polled goat breeds in Mexico and Germany, and some important considerations on extended...
4 months ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, This month, we are talking once again to Dr. Robert Van Saun, uncovering a number of ailments that can lead to anemia beyond parasites. Also, learn how you can stop wasting money on useless minerals and select the best loose mineral formulation for your herd's health. Plus, master the 5-point check to quickly and easily monitor your goat's overall condition, and understand deer worm, a deadly parasite that begins to rear its ugly head during the onset of the fall season. 👉Anemia...
5 months ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, Herbal dewormers are a hot topic for goat lovers trying to prevent or treat parasite problems. But the key question remains: do they work? In this article, I cover the research into herbal dewormers, one scientifically-backed dewormer that does work, and the most important thing you can do to prevent parasite problems on your farm. You can't get much cuter than little chickens. The most popular breed by far is likely the sweet Silkie with their fluffy feathering and docile...
5 months ago • 2 min read