News

Understanding How to Evaluate Body Condition in Your Goat Herd by Hattie Hartschuh, Kalmbach Feeds Learning and understanding how to evaluate your goats’ body condition is one of the most important tools a herds(wo)man can have in their toolkit. Poor body condition can clue you in on overall herd health and potential underlying illnesses. It can also reveal heavy parasite burden and significant nutritional deficiencies. By maintaining an adequate Body Condition Score, you can also maximize your returns in milk and meat production, optimize the conception rates in your brood stock, and help ensure that you have healthy kids on the ground....

Supporting Chicken Egg Production Through Proper Nutrition Few things are more rewarding than gathering fresh eggs each morning when raising chickens. But if you've noticed a dip in your hens' laying or shell quality, you might wonder: Is my flock getting the nutrition they need? Veteran chicken owners know that egg production naturally has its ups and downs. Even with good care, birds sometimes face challenges during stress, molting, or seasonal changes. The key to steady, high-quality egg production isn't trial-and-error with supplements; it's providing a complete feed that already contains the right balance of vitamins and minerals. With carefully...

Keeping your chicken coop clean is one of the most important tasks for maintaining a healthy, productive flock. A clean coop reduces the risk of parasites, disease, and respiratory issues, while also making things more pleasant for both your chickens and you. Whether you're deep cleaning for the season or doing regular maintenance, this all-in-one checklist will help keep your coop in top condition year-round. 1. Remove All Bedding and Waste Start by taking everything out of the coop—bedding, nesting material, and droppings. Don’t forget to check under roost bars and corners where messes can collect. Use a shovel or...

When summer hits its peak and the temperatures soar, horse owners must take extra steps to protect their equine partners from the risks of heat stress. Horses are incredibly resilient animals, but excessive heat, humidity, and sun exposure can lead to dehydration, exhaustion, and even dangerous conditions like heatstroke. Whether you're caring for backyard horses, working animals, or competitive athletes, here are essential tips to keep your horses healthy and comfortable during the hottest days of the season. 1. Prioritize Hydration One of the most important aspects of summer horse care is ensuring access to clean, cool water at all...

JOHNSONGRASS CONTROL  By: Gilbert Barrett, Pres/CEO  Farmers Exchange  Johnsongrass is one of the most persistentand aggressive weeds faced by pasture andhay producers in North Georgia. Its rapidgrowth and rhizome-based spread canquickly crowd out desirable forages likefescue, reducing forage quality and yields.Fortunately, CryderTM herbicide offers aneffective solution for managing thistroublesome weed in perennial grass systems.  Cryder (active ingredient: nicosulfuron)is labeled for use in establishedperennial pastures and hayfields. Whenapplied at the recommended rate of .75oz per acre, Cryder provides selectivepost-emergent control of Johnsongrasswithout injuring fescue. For best results,treat when Johnsongrass is 18 to 24inches tall and actively growing.Applications made too early or...