Couple methods being utilized around here:
1) Swiffer pads-- unscented- laid across top of frames. The hive beetles get hung up in the fibers. Change as needed.
2) Applying nemotodes to the soil under and around the hives to disrupt the life cycle.
The only sure way to end up with a small fortune from farming, is to start out with a large fortune. Think about it-- if it really is possible then the small family farms would still be plentiful. Just sayin'...
I've had to bring in coyote hunters again. There's an overabundance of coyotes in this area, so most folks around here are glad that hunters are again trying to thin the packs. Good luck and know that dogs are fair game for coyotes too.
Maybe if you can find some fiber artisans, they may know of a fiber goat breeder that would be interested in placing next year's kids with a fiber goat enthusiast like yourself.
Feeling your pain, Eric. Took a few years to help folks around here understand property rights especially related to hunting and 4wheeling. The farm is posted per state law, and I always take a camera when I address folks trespassing. Pictures are worth a thousand words in a court of law. Just sayin'...
Glad for your update, Zach! As you go along your life's way, consider using your extraordinary writing talent as a means to provide for yourself. There's a reason you have that gift. Hugs!
Absolutely! The kindest thing to do for a suffering animal is to end it quickly and humanely. My vet told me years ago that dispatching an animal with a properly handled firearm is the most humane method. Learn where to aim though. It is not an easy thing to do, however.
I live a few counties west of you in Virginia. The pine bark beetle is wreaking havoc with pines right now. Maybe Eastern Red Cedar would be a better option.
I fenced for my goats with woven goat wire-- regular field wire will hang them if they have horns. Used 5'posts, set 9' apart. Would recommend 2 electric strands inside of that: at the top, and mid-way to deter them walking down the fence.
I have to admit, I'm not that hungry yet, therefore I don't have any suggestions. But I probably would prefer the worms in the form of a chicken. I wish you the best as you explore the possibilities.
Hi Bart,
Fencing is a significant investment to say the least. Depending on your land parcel, fencing sections might be an option to spread the money outlay out over some time. On the farm here, a combination of old split RR ties, cedar posts ( from clearing land), salvaged treated posts, and Tposts were used. If you order posts remember to add the shipping and handling costs to the price in order to have an accurate figure for comparison shopping. Around here, it is just as well to buy from the local farm supply stores-- it's really a matter of whom you would like to support with your business. Good luck with your fencing!
Dan Boone, such a good reality check! When I was young, i would have been game enough to have tried that. Thankfully, i am older and wiser now, and am quite content on my farm in Virginia. One day I might relocate to a spot higher up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, but that would depend on finding a buyer for this place. So for now, my knees appreciate the flatter ground, and overall the good climate. Cheers!
Hats off to you for determining to stay and help rebuild the community! I can't imagine that level of devastation. Best wishes for everyone out there facing that task. Really big hugs from Virginia!
Sometimes circumstances are such that you should consider stepping up to the " big guns". It's kind of like exercising judgment to know when to use what, i.e., antibiotics versus herbs/alternative treatments. I understand the frustration fighting fleas; I do the flea dance every season.
I have had goats for about 15 years; dairy goats for the last 10 years. I prefer the Toggenburg dairy goats over the other breeds. They are quiet! If you hear them, you need to go see what's wrong. They are friendly if handled regularly and are medium sized. I highly recommend them!
I use a bucket with a lid. That way I have them with me so I don't have to go back to get a different tool. Brightly colored paint on the handle helps me to spot a forgotten tool also.
As you formulate your tiny house business plan, do your homework :
* Research the local zoning and housing ordinances
* Understand how a tiny house is categorized-- here they are not accepted for occupancy permits unless they meet the building codes; they are not considered a recreational vehicle either.
* An enterprise that meets the guidelines of a "campground" under ordinances may require certain infrastructure that could be cost prohibitive.
* Check with your property owner's insurance company to review liability coverage etc.
Hi Huxley,
I recommend that you consider aquiring some skilled labor training from a local community college. That way you have a marketable skill with which to support yourself while working on the farm plan. Developing a business of any type, including farming, requires capital-- most small businesses fail due to lack of capital funding. A good place to start with agricultural education of any type is basic sciences ( biology, chemistry, botany) and soil science. Here on this forum Bryant Redhawk has excellent information on these subjects.
Blu-Kote is a good idea. It will help protect the wound as well as keep the other birds from picking at it. I would at least try to save the bird, but if infection does develop, then it will have to be put down. Bigger question: what needs to be done to protect them better? That predator will be back. Good luck!
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