Surviving The Heat on The Farm
We all wished for summer and now it is here, 100 degree weather and the humidity, oh my! With the weather reeking havoc on our crops and our own bodies, please remember the animals.
Here are a few tips to remember to help your animals deal with the heat.
- Always keep a water supply available to all animals by using waterers or buckets
- Have a place of shelter for them to get into out of the sun and heat
- If they have to be confined, place a fan in the barn/building to keep a constant air flow
- If possible, feed later in the day or early in the morning, the animals will be more apt to eat when it is cooler
These are just a few tips that we use here on the farm. Our animals get overheated and thirsty just like we do, so take care of them as well.
Escaping the Urban Jungle
Several years ago my wife and I purchased three acres of property about an hour and a half north of Seattle. After living in urban areas for the last three decades, we found ourselves pining for a respite from the concrete jungle. For the first few years, our new home served as a welcome oasis from the cluttered nature of city life.
In recent months, however, there has been a drastic increase in the number of residents in the area; it appears that other people have developed a yearning for the simplicity of rural life. In order to maintain some of our privacy and separation, I’ve constructed a fence around the perimeter of the property. And in order to ensure our easy access, I’ve even included a drive through gate.
Getting Around the Ranch
Anyone who has spent time on a farm can attest to the nuisance that gates can be. On large ranches, you may have to stop to open two or three gates before you even reach the stables. Recent innovations have, in large part, eliminated the need for traditional swing gates and locks.
There are many easy-to-install, versatile drive through gates available today. Unlike conventional gates, these models “pop” open and close quickly behind you, eliminating the need to get out of your vehicle or dismount from your horse. You can even find models that have adjustable lengths, so they can be utilized in a variety of applications.