Grass Conservation on the Ranch

As a sheep ranch we are constantly aware and adjusting the grazing patterns of our flocks.  Free grazing on large bodies of land seem to be a good idea at first.  One would think that a relatively small flock set out on a large parcel of land would have a minimal impact on the plants [...]

Next step

After the initial application process is completed – basically it is simply your intent to enter the program.  Then the next step is to determine which program would work best for your particular situation and to evaluate the scope of work.  This process involves an on site visit from one of the NRCS personnel.  Our plans [...]

Is it a good washboard?

I recently had a conversation with my husband regarding the quality of our new washboard.  My husband is of the mind that our washboard isn’t a good one and I agree – the legs are much too short.  As a little girl I am sure I didn’t imagine a day when I would become a [...]

Is rustic dirty?

I read a blog recently where someone was traveling about.  I assume to broaden their mind.  One ‘experience’ was to visit a farm.  After an over romanticized beginning the ‘charm’ quickly wore off.  Their summation was that “rustic = dirty”. As one who lives rustic rather than experiences rustic.  I say, “Get a mop!”.  I lived [...]

carbon stomp

With all the talk about carbon foot print and green living, everyone seems to be so absorbed with living PC that the purpose is forgotten.  I know people who buy everything local and organic that they can.  I didn’t realize that so many things are available in ‘organic’.  These same people live such  consumer lifestyles [...]

Sustainable Farming

Why are there so many buzz words related to farming these days.  When I was growing up the farmer was the slack jawed, overall wearing, grass chewing good ole boy that no one wanted to date.  Today, the farmer has stepped into the spot light.  We are no more reliant on the farmer for our [...]

First steps

With all my nay saying about the USDA, one might feel my most recent move to be a bit hypocritical. After my recent conversation with the local conservation district office, I have been curious about the NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service).  So I pulled out some literature that I had once gathered and then stuffed away.  [...]