Technical Assistance

By: Denice Rackley In the first part of this article we discussed heat stress on livestock impacting everything from feed intake and fetal mortality to meat quality. We also explored the signs of heat stress and importance of recognizing symptoms early. Management, mitigation, and prevention of heat stress symptoms are the next steps. The best …

Exploring Livestock Heat Stress Management, Mitigation and Prevention Read More »

Heat stress is defined as the inability to self-regulate body temperature that impacts performance and health. Humans and other mammals shiver to maintain warmth and sweat to cool off without thinking about it. The body handles small rises in temperatures on its own by increasing evaporative cooling. Adjusting breathing, increasing blood flow to the extremities …

Heat Stress in Livestock – Recognition, Mitigation, and Prevention Read More »

By Denice Rackley Selecting livestock to complement the existing plant species growing in our pastures increases our ecological and economic sustainability. Unfortunately, most producers decide what livestock they want to raise without considering their farm. However, if we first consider our forages, land, and goals, then select the ideal livestock species and stock pastures accordingly, …

Multispecies Grazing – Layers of Ecological and Economic Benefits That Outweigh Challenges Read More »

Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Jeff Schahczenski of the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) reviews the rather recent history, opportunities, and challenges of accessing high quality crop and livestock insurance for organic and transitioning to organic farmers and livestock producers. He explores ways to assess insurable risks in your county and state. Topics include revenue …

Crop Insurance for Organic Farmers Webinar Read More »

By Denice Rackley We have been discussing low stress livestock handling techniques that open the lines of communication between you and your livestock by the way you move and respond to their movement. Understanding the Why’s of the method will enable you and your livestock to both relax and benefit from your interactions. Our first …

Low Stress Livestock Handling – Misconceptions Read More »

By Denice Rackley We discussed the Low Stress Livestock Handling method, first brought to light by Bud Williams, is centered on mutual communication. By understanding the interactions and movement of stock with each other, we can build trust and respect allowing us to manage our stock without stress. We can have our idea, become their …

Low Stress Livestock Handling – In Practice Read More »

By Denice Rackley Low-stress livestock handling (LSLH) has become a familiar phrase.  The term LSLH is used in discussions about working livestock, handling facilities, and is even used to advertise livestock equipment. What is your definition of low stress livestock handling?  Do you equate low stress with slow moving stock? If we do, then how …

Low Stess Livestock Handling – Introduction Read More »

By Justin Morris and Linda Poole, NCAT Regenerative Grazing Specialists  Did you know that pasture health and flying in an airplane are similar in some ways? If not, don’t worry; you’re not alone. A catastrophic event that happens in flight can resemble how a pasture responds following a catastrophe. Let us explain… Catastrophic events in …

A Tale of Two Pastures: Pasture Response to Catastrophic Events Read More »

Brought to you by NatGLC in early 2020, Dallas Mount with Ranching For Profit talks about common financial obstacles ranchers face and simple solutions to become a more sustainable ranching operation. Enjoy this free webinar from the archives!