Cycles of Summer

After a slow start to the spring we were glad to finish our first hay cutting last month. As soon as we finish making hay, we spread 1 to 2 tons per acre of chicken manure on the hay fields. This replaces the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that are removed in each bale of hay and fed back to the cows on pasture over the winter.

Chicken manure is very stinky, and it takes a long time to spread. On the upside, it is inexpensive and does great things for the soil. As a small farm, we strive to become more efficient in everything we do, including nutrient cycling.

The cow calf herd is nearing the end of its second grazing rotation. On hot days the cattle can find shade in just about any paddock on the farm. The mama cows and their calves collectively weigh about 33 tons. It is nice that the equipment used to move them - step-in posts and a plastic reel of poly wire - is light enough to be carried by a single person.

Norah's cow tree grows right on the edge of the cow lane. It provides a perfect spot to sit and watch the herd go by.

Thanks for reading,

Leith, Mary Kate, Norah & Edith MacKenzie