The University of Minnesota Beef and Dairy Teams are now producing a cow podcast called “The Moos Room.” The podcast is hosted by Joe Armstrong, Brad Heins, and Emily Krekelberg, and is made for both beef and dairy producers. “The Moos Room” is free to stream or download and available on Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts. The cattle focused podcast discusses relevant topics … [Read more...]
Don’t overlook the importance of water
The earth is 75% covered in it. Our bodies are made up of more than 60% of it. We can only survive 4 days without it. I’m talking of course about water. It is considered one of our most important natural resources and is the most essential nutrient to our diets. That’s not just for humans, though–it’s true for livestock, too! Most livestock can survive for two months without … [Read more...]
What to do if your pork packing plant is closed
Are you impacted by a pork packing plant closure due to COVID-19 and have pigs scheduled to ship in the near future and wondering what to do? Below is a list of strategies for you to consider. It is important to note that the strategies outlined below are meant to be temporary for emergency situations. The wellbeing of the pigs should be your number one priority when … [Read more...]
Managing market hogs destined for local meat lockers
With pig harvest at commercial packing plants currently disrupted, consumers have an opportunity to purchase market hogs directly from the farm. These pigs destined for local custom processing facilities may have to wait until they can be harvested. Lee Johnston, Pedro Urriola and Sarah Schieck Boelke have put together a fact sheet detailing how consumers can keep market hogs … [Read more...]
Spinning a good yarn – a girl and her goats
By Elena Patterson In the heart of Harmony, there’s a little shop on Main Street called Homespun Harmony. Once inside the eye is immediately drawn to the walls of yarn that are as varied and colorful as a handheld kaleidoscope. One special display showcases the local talents of Audra Otto, a 13-year-old who hand spins yarn from the fleece of her own herd of Pygora goats. … [Read more...]