Thistles and weeds? You mean goat food! You need a couple goats in your flerd. We are loving your videos! We have sheep, ducks, horses, quail, and chickens and your videos are teaching us SO MUCH about cows and grazing practices. Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge and beautiful view!
@@birchfieldfarming we got them to eat them but they were so darn sweet and friendly that my kids have pardoned them from feeezer camp. We're trying to teach them to pull a cart but right now they're brush control. Poison ivy and thorn bushes are goat candy! Right now we stake them out where we need them to mob graze as we look at electric fencing options. I have a friend in Florida who raises dwarf Nigerian milkers (and Llama, dachshunds, etc) and says that breed is tops for milk. We're spoiled to live near the largest weekly goat and sheep auction in the world and it's definitely worth going to one just to observe, meet like minded people, and find your ideal breed for your site and needs. My husband ate goat while deployed and says it's his FAVORITE meat. I will say that I am surprised how much smaller boers are than our dorper cross sheep. Definitely a very different creature!
Your statement about a sacrifice paddock if you can't continue the rotation is spot on! The longer you can leave the pasture, the faster it recovers. Thanks for the "good word" opener. :)
it takes 72 hours for fly to hatch in fresh cow patty, leave them for 3 days make the fly worse maybe move them after 2 days and put the chicken there so they eat the fly larva just a though
You got it! We actually do this now. You can see it in action midway thru our latest video. One thing I did not expect - When the grass gets longer and puts on a seed head, the cattle inject those seeds and they move right thru them into the pats. In addition to harrowing the pats and eating the maggots, the chickens will eat those seeds. It was disgustingly awesome to see.
Great video and definitely informational. The rotational grazing system you are using mimics Joel Salitins (sp) system with his pasture poultry program. I read a book published by a pioneer of this system (Dr. Allen Savory) who used this system as a means of reversing desertification in Africa. What amazes me, actually what is astonishing about your approach is you have pushed the limits of their research far beyond their parameters and are getting outstanding results. Based on their theory your current animal load should be covering 5 acres divided in 10 paddocks with a minimum of 30 days rest each. You are doing it on less than half that and receiving the same results (lush green pastures). You should definitely document your inputs and results for study. Best Wishes and please keep the knowledge flowing...
Thanks, Dewey. Good thoughts here. Taking into account hay consumption thru winter, I’ve come up with about twice the productivity year round on a piece of ground in our area, as compared with traditional set stock grazing. Are the labor inputs worth it? I certainly believe so…but I also love it. We’ll see what happens this season! Another great read going back even before Savory is “Grass Productivity” by Andre Voisin. As he references, the peasant folks had figured out how to maximize the sigmoid curve of grass long before the academics came up with it. Take care, friend!
Will definitely add that to my library... on another note I cracked open the Savory book and his measurement is 1.32 per animal unit which means the total acreage would be closer to a 10 acre operation. So you are closer to a 20 percent utilization factor. Truely a Blessed Operation.
Hi from the Waikato in New Zealand. Like you we are on four acres with fodder/timber on all our boundaries. Inside we have blocks of nut and fruit which we run cattle and sheep between. I’d like to make a couple of comments if I may please. First, you are a natural teacher- been watching for a while now and your style of imparting your learning is easy and a pleasure to watch Second, your particular method of rotation. About year ago I said to you that your “grazing is a function of time” was a gem. We here in NZ have the three day rule- doesn’t matter how many head, doesn’t matter the area, all that matters is you get the stock off in three days. After that and the grass goes into panic mode and starts to regrow with passion. To continue feeding only serves to stress the plant and so extends the recovery time. Your running cows and sheep is smart because each selects from a different menu making easier pasture maintenance. Also reduces the recovery time on each block. Ok, all on the same page. It’s the timing on the Chickens component I’d like to kick around please. You do thirty days cycle and I understand why. Again, we do at least 42 days because that is the like cycle of the majority of the usual parasites. If we/you were to hold the crooks back a week would that not give the eggs time to hatch so being eaten by our feathered clean up crew. It’s one thing to pick at and spread the dung straight away but is it not another to actually eradicate the the parasites. If that longer hold over period was effective then using your “grazing is a function of time” means it doesn’t actually matter if it’s thirty days or forty two days but what matter is when the paddock/pasture is clean. Experimenting and testing parasite load after different chicken hold back times would be very beneficial. In that way empirically you would know the real effective recovery cycle time, rather than an arbitrary guesstimate. I understand that parasite control is only one part, grass recovery being the other. Yet both are functions of season and environment but each can be quantified- summer cycle is faster than winter cycle is obvious, but by how much? Like you we want maximize the production of of our factory so watching you explain your journey is fantastic and thanks very much for making the effort to make these videos.
Thank you for your kind and encouraging words here and for following along! I like your thinking here and observations. My main issue with holding back chickens is that recovery time lengthens after chickens (or any other animal for that matter). Pasture parasites are not a main concern for us b/c we’ve selected grass-fed genetics in our cattle and sheep, and they thrive with zero dewormer year round. I’ve paid a price for that - both in dollars upfront and ongoing with giving up larger, quicker carcass weights in other breeds…but that’s what I wanted holistically. I’ve often wondered if running all three together at the same time (chickens, cattle, and sheep) would achieve what you’re saying - if the poo is flung by chickens immediately, would it limit parasites? Granted, some are advocating growing cow-pie maggots for chicken feed - I guess it all depends on goals. But you absolutely may be on to something there with holding back the birds for a bit if parasites are a primary concern. For me, pasture re-growth is more important than parasites since I have very little struggle there. Excellent talking points here, thanks!!🤠
Got it, you spent time and gold on quality stock to reduce (are red Devon’s a parasite hard breed?) the impact of parasites. Being on small acreage grass recovery is primary. Now I better understand your method. If you haven’t already in another vid, it might be an idea further expand on your rational. Thanks for replying, I can see it would take a lot of your time. Take care
@@gracegood3661I’ve never dewormed our Red Devons. They fend for themselves after weaning and must perform on 100% grass with no propping up. No vaccines, no dewormer, I’ve given antibiotics once in 4+ yrs for an eye infection. Minimal inputs is the only true way of independence for the small farm, only my opinion though. Best of wishes to you in New Zealand, friend.🤠
Been watching your videos. Thank you for sharing your experience and creative expertise in animal care and rotational grazing. Subscribed to your channel. Looking forward to seeing your next video. Watching from Brown county Texas. Praying for you, your wife and family and that you are blessed in all that you set your heart and mind to accomplish for His Devine Kingdom. (KJV John 1:4. “In Him was life, and that life was the Light of men.” 5. And the light shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehended it not.”) ☝️🙏🙌
Yeah buddy, we’re pushing through Covid down here but glad to see you back up on the net. We have been making content but just can’t get motivated to edit content, as you can understand. Anyway, seriously, thing look good for you with the health and welfare of the animals. Funny about the bees, we have two Layen’s hives going and they are doing ok but restless. Maybe the weather is causing the bees to swarm out of cycle, anyway, my very docile hive stung me repeatedly even though we are covered in chicory, etc. and we really aren’t in a dearth per se. Thanks for the good word, praying for your family. Dan and Elle
Aw Dan & Elle, sorry to hear about covid - I’ve noticed it has made somewhat of a surge up here lately as well. The bright side would be fighting it off in the summer when you can be outside and all the immunity you’ll have here soon, post-infection. Rest up, guys! (I think your Layen’s hives are amazing. I’ve gotta get cracking on a bee system that works up here!)
I am just starting a homestead in New Richmond Ohio. Trying to do what you are doing. I am also starting a plant nursery. I have 3 Hoop Coop chicken tractors. Raising Bresse chickens.
Tom, welcome here and thanks for stopping by! I sincerely hope the supportive folks and content here help you get the heavy train rolling in the intended direction. Pop over in person if you’re ever up northwest of Cincy!
I’m always encouraged by the Truthful Word shared…thanks. I have 52 acres and I have a great desire to start St. Croix. I’m in western TN…how many sheep per acre and how often do you rotate. Also, what dog breed do you recommend? Thanks for any advice. Steve
Thanks for the encouragement, Steve! I’m always hesitant to give grazing recommendations on stocking rate for other locations, but here in Ohio we can run about 6 St. Croix sheep/acre, more if rotating. We’re running quarter acre paddocks and rotating every 3 days, trying NOT to return to the same paddock for at least 30 days to help break the parasite (barber pole worm) cycle. We run cattle and sheep together, so no experience with dogs here. Best of luck on getting things going in TN and reach out if I can help!
My neighbor has an out of control field and I mowed it to get the thistles and the Tallow trees. The cows wanted nothing to do with those thistles until I ran over them with a bush hog. Smoothies! They went for it. This is the model I'm starting to work towards. here.
Do you think a grass fed operation like this would be reasonable on a total of 5 acres, possibly with a smaller herd and paddocks? And do you have any book or other resource recommendations to start the educational process? Husband and I just purchased 6 acres in East Texas to establish a productive homestead and I am fascinated with this as a possibility for us. Thank you in advance!
Hi Summer! Yes, I think it’s certainly reasonable. Couple things: East Texas is very different grazing conditions than where I am. For this reason I recommend talking with either a local rancher and/or an extension office and find out what a conservative stocking rate is for your area and start there. Books to read: The Independent Farmstead by Shawn and Beth Dougherty. Grass Productivity by Andre Voisin. Salad Bar Beef by Joel Salatin Best of luck on your new homestead, Summer! Keep us posted on how things are going.
I am just getting started in Texas. I will be getting my first 2 angus cattle in a week. Looking to get my pastures setup. I will be feeding hay obviously to get through winter. But with 2 angus about 16 month old each. I would like to get your thoughts on paddock size. And how long to keep them on it.
Congrats! I don’t have the 1st clue about Texas climate and grazing. Here’s what I recommend: Talk to either your local extension office and/or a local farmer and see what an average stocking rate is for pastures in YOUR area. I always tell folks to start there and then improve over time through rotation. I could tell you what works here, but your grass growth and species will be totally different down there. I will say this - The general regenerative agriculture principles will still apply (keeping soil covered, diversity in pastures as well as animal species, moving animals regularly, and water retention). Stay in touch - I’d love to know how it goes!
im in Texas, Since there is no regrowth at the moment im going to keep them in most paddocks longer and giving them some protein like some alfalfa maybe some flaxseeed meal to help them digest the dry forage. my first paddock i grazed will be a sacrifice paddock since its had the most rest if i get to the point of running out of grass before it rains.
Man, I feel for you all. Just only so much you can do. I’ve been seeing the videos of long lines of trailers backed up to sell. Prayin for rain down there.
@@birchfieldfarming thanks we need it. Im luckier than most as i started this year and am working with a small group and started late so have more grass than most. Just hoping the inexperience doesnt bit me since this year takes some skill to graze through
@@masonbaylorbears Absolutely, but hey you should be able to handle about anything after this year, I would think! We’ve gone thru a few dry patches over the years (nothing like you’ve got there), and what always fascinated me was the psychosomatic connection for the farmer. So many want to romanticize the connection to the land, but those actually connected daily know there can be a price to pay. I realized the animals and consequently what they eat here are almost like an extension of our person, our being. Personally, I felt an unexpected toll on my physical body during that time. I hope you can take time away when necessary. Check in here anytime. Stay well, friend. Much respect from Ohio.
@@birchfieldfarming thanks for the insite on that ill keep that in mind. Appreciate the support and thanks for the videos helps keep my mind on what problems people are solving and what others are thinking about
No shelter. Even in winter they stay out, but I will say having shade trees is very desirable for them this time of year. Not all my paddocks have shade, but they very much enjoy the ones that do.
Great question - I’ve never been as concerned with what a paddock looks like when we’re immediately done as I have been with the rest period and what the paddock looks like when we return. My rule, especially with the sheep (barber pole worm, etc), is to never return to the same piece of ground for at least 30 days. Most would probably say with our number of animals and how we look coming off a paddock that we’re overgrazing, but this approach has worked for us. The return is where I’m focused.
@@birchfieldfarming i’m in the process of buying s 7 acres farm and i’m looking to make my own hay,how many cows,sheep/pigs could i raise realistically in your opinion? Thank you
@@Tattoo_Noobie There are many many factors here which would determine your stocking rate. If you want to email me at birchfieldfarming@gmail.com with some specifics of your situation, I’d be glad to try and help.
Dry places like Texas should rotate every day for 60 days = 60 paddocks. This will work if they add chickens (wait 3-5 days) once the livestock leave the paddock.
An adaptive approach must allow for seasonality - grass on average grows twice as fast in May/June vs Aug/Sept (in my area). Couple this with varied precipitation patterns throughout the growing season, and you have a very complex set of circumstances each year. Observational flexibility is key.
Never had a predator problem with sheep. Yes, I do think cows help protect the sheep. One thing worth noting: We do have a perimeter fence around the property, and I have my electric paddock fencing within the larger perimeter fence. I’ve always wondered if the double fence helps us on predators quite a bit. I know for sure we have coyotes, though, as we hear them yelling with the distant trains.
Hello, we are just getting started on 5 acres and researching many things. Curious if you have tried mini cattle? Seems like they would sell very well to other small acreage homesteaders.
I’m definitely a believer that the smaller breeds are more profitable (Devons, Dexters, South Pole), but we haven’t ventured into the mini-breeds. My family loves to eat beef, so we’re gunning for the 100% grass-fed beef market. Somebody should graph cattle size vs. profitability, would love to see that data! Best of luck to you!
That's impressive numbers for that acreage. Your pastures look good. . Chicory is good stuff , it has medicinal properties for humans too. That's interesting saying , i dont know much about honey bees but its on my list of things to learn .Much love ❤️ 🙏
I have about 1.5 acres of yard I was thinking on doing three .5 acre paddocks. For two dexter cows for home meat. Northern Indiana I live so not too dry as down south can get. I’m wondering if this would be enough? Not taking anyone’s yes as a green light but just curious on to any thoughts?
All depends on goals, but my take is it can certainly be done. Be aware though with a fewer amount of paddocks, you’ll tend more towards selective grazing, overgrazing, and eventually less productive paddocks. More labor upfront to build more paddocks, but it’s been worth it in our case here. What I’ve seen is longer rest periods with higher number of paddocks can improve the native pastures more rapidly, even eliminating the need to mechanically mow. 12 paddocks still only gets you to 16,000 lbs/acre - some say around 50K lbs/acre needed to see rapid range improvement. (That’s assuming your Dexters are 1,000 lbs each). So I double dog dare you to split your 1.5 acre yard into 36 paddocks🤠 🐮
Lol well I’m convinced as it does make complete sense on the overgrazing part or selective. More work but seems worth it in order to make things really work out. As for the 36 paddocks lol I think I can hint your sense of humor haha. Maybe 6 or 7 paddocks I’m convinced now can do the trick hmmm 😅
Thankfully, we are on the opposite side of the state. Even so, Cincinnati water works (about 45 min south of us) has closed the water intakes from Ohio river, so it’s impacting everyone. Water is life on a farm and my heart breaks for all those closer to the area. Thanks for asking about us!
2 hot wires extra crispy, one shock and mine never touch it again. Though I did see a bull throw my steer into the wires last week after he messed with his hay stash - looked like Hulk Hogan bouncing off the ropes! 💪🏻
Pretty cool Just subscribed We are new and small 10 sheep we have 2 acres with 3 more acres that we are allowed to graze on Are next step is chickens to follow behind And would really like to do a couple Dexter's soon Right now our sheep are lambs and we rotate every one or 2 days sometimes 3 day If Sabbath falls in there My average size right now is 16'x50ish' I acre is thick lush lots of clover and fescue The other is just grass Wee have been feeding them on fence rows also lately They real like honey suckle and black berries How much bigger will my paddocks need to be once they mature and add 2 Dexter's? Oh and by the way Love the Gospel of John The "THEY" in 10 10 Are the lost sheep The 10 lost tribes He is the good shepherd of the Scriptures praiseYa! HE was sent to the lost sheep
Thanks! And awesome thoughts on 10:10! As far as grazing and paddocks size, there are so many variables unknown to me here that I’m hesitant to even comment…but I will! My suggestion would be to use animal units since you are familiar with your sheep and what they need. Basically, figure out how many of your sheep account for your cow (usually 4 to 6) and then adjust your land needs about the same as you would for adding those extra sheep. I wish I could be more specific in helping, but just too many variables. This work is art! Be well.
Hi, new to farming so the vocabulary is lost on me. I saw in another comment you have 10 paddocks, 1/4 acre each. How many paddocks are occupied at once?
Hey Toons, welcome here! Just one paddock at a time. Started out with a smaller herd staying 3 days each paddock, but have since grown a bit and rotate every day, one paddock each day. Thanks for watching
@@ToonsGoofyMemesChickens run behind cattle in a separate paddock to break up cow pats. Cattle will not eat around their pats when we return to paddock 30 days later, so chickens doing this harrow work makes us much more productive.
I have been reading Joel Salatin and I think on my property I can rotate either 4 sheep or 2 angus heifers on 10 60x60 paddocks. What do you think? We just butchered 2 heifers and a steer after finishing them on sweet feed for 2 months. Do you do your own butchering? We just processed 21 Cornish cross a couple of weeks ago (the largest was 8.5 pounds in the bag). I incubate our own eggs and we have about 40 or 50 birds that will be egg layers (about 20 of those are roosters for the freezer). I you want a giant bird, cross an Americauna with a Golden Wyandot.
The standard for continuous set-stock grazing in our area is about 1 animal unit per acre. I’ve found that we’ve nearly doubled that by rotating, including factoring in winter hay. Looking at your numbers, you’d be at not quite 1 acre total (.8) with the 10 paddocks, so the cattle would definitely be more challenging. 4 sheep would be less than one animal unit, so I’d say you’d be conservative to start there. Now, the challenge with sheep will be trying not to return to the same paddock for at least 30 days to interrupt the parasite cycle (barber pole worm). So could you stay on each paddock for 3 days? 2 thoughts: I’m finding variable speed grazing, depending on the season, is what works best for us. The other thought - If you can get ahold of a book from the 1950’s called “Grass Productivity” by Andre Voisin - worth its weight in GOLD for what we’re doing. His data in there on the sigmoid curve of grass pretty much laid the foundation for current regenerative grass work and thinking. Yes, we process on farm. We do a couple batches of 100 Cornish thru summer (auto-plucker and friends). I have done a heifer, but I’m not great at it. I’ve always wanted to taste our St. Croix sheep, but we’ve always sold out our stock as breeders each year. You’ve got me curious on the chicken cross - I’ll be looking into that! Take care, Tom!
Thanks…The problem with the insecticidal fly products is they’re harmful to much more than the flies (dung beetles, etc). We have an ACV based spray we make and use. Perhaps they make a non-insecticidal fly tag I don’t know about.
Probably some unexpected dancing on my car hood and barn roofs as well, right? (Usually in the middle of the night). We had one down at the camp I worked for years ago. Pulled up one day and there it was on the barn roof - nobody had a clue how it got there!🤣🤣
I start grazing when the grass is a foot high and move them when the livestock has eaten the top half, where the highest nutrients are concentrated. Besides, livestock doesn't like full-grown plants as much. Leaving 6" covers the ground better, protecting it from the sun, which lets the pasture recover quicker.
Could be. Could also be you have a very limited perspective on your visual video assessment of my livestock and zero knowledge of the context into which you’re commenting. When basic needs are not being met, animals will not reproduce. Reproduction is secondary to basic needs. We had one ewe that raised triplet rams that weaned a combined body weight over 100 lbs this year! Yes, she was thin for a time after that, but nothing to do with over stocking/not getting enough. Our cows and ewes are producing what I’m seeking on 100% grass, which also means body conditions will vary depending on what stage our mammas are in with nursing/offspring. We also run some dairy lines (American Milking Devon) in our beef herd and dairy animals are going to look thinner b/c they are putting their resources toward milk production. My point here is CONTEXT is important when making an assessment like the one you’ve made, Bart.
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Thistles and weeds? You mean goat food! You need a couple goats in your flerd. We are loving your videos! We have sheep, ducks, horses, quail, and chickens and your videos are teaching us SO MUCH about cows and grazing practices. Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge and beautiful view!
Thank you so much for the encouragement! This is the 2nd time goats have come up in conversation today🤔🤣
@@birchfieldfarming we have 2 boer bucks and they are sweeter than Labrador retrievers. Highly recommend the breed!
@@1MissEllyLoveGreat to know, thanks! Do you raise for meat, milk, or breeding stock?
@@birchfieldfarming we got them to eat them but they were so darn sweet and friendly that my kids have pardoned them from feeezer camp. We're trying to teach them to pull a cart but right now they're brush control. Poison ivy and thorn bushes are goat candy! Right now we stake them out where we need them to mob graze as we look at electric fencing options. I have a friend in Florida who raises dwarf Nigerian milkers (and Llama, dachshunds, etc) and says that breed is tops for milk. We're spoiled to live near the largest weekly goat and sheep auction in the world and it's definitely worth going to one just to observe, meet like minded people, and find your ideal breed for your site and needs. My husband ate goat while deployed and says it's his FAVORITE meat. I will say that I am surprised how much smaller boers are than our dorper cross sheep. Definitely a very different creature!
@@1MissEllyLoveThat’s awesome, thanks for sharing!🤠
Your statement about a sacrifice paddock if you can't continue the rotation is spot on! The longer you can leave the pasture, the faster it recovers.
Thanks for the "good word" opener. :)
Such a challenge when it gets dry! Thanks for being here.
Finally more content! Been waiting on this, thank you for sharing!
I’m honored there exists someone who waits on me! Thanks for following.
Very impressed with your system and animal count 👏
Thanks for dropping by!
Dude,
I love this!
Thanks for the word - please keep this going!
Thank you for the encouragement, Michael!
Thanks for the good word and prayers for Texas. Praying for rain here.
For sure, Eric. Hang in there
it takes 72 hours for fly to hatch in fresh cow patty, leave them for 3 days make the fly worse maybe move them after 2 days and put the chicken there so they eat the fly larva just a though
You got it! We actually do this now. You can see it in action midway thru our latest video. One thing I did not expect - When the grass gets longer and puts on a seed head, the cattle inject those seeds and they move right thru them into the pats. In addition to harrowing the pats and eating the maggots, the chickens will eat those seeds. It was disgustingly awesome to see.
Awesome ur so close to me I grew up there and now live about 15 minutes away. Glad to see locals on CZcams !
…I think you may have sold us really, really good eggs several years ago!🤠
Great video and definitely informational. The rotational grazing system you are using mimics Joel Salitins (sp) system with his pasture poultry program. I read a book published by a pioneer of this system (Dr. Allen Savory) who used this system as a means of reversing desertification in Africa. What amazes me, actually what is astonishing about your approach is you have pushed the limits of their research far beyond their parameters and are getting outstanding results. Based on their theory your current animal load should be covering 5 acres divided in 10 paddocks with a minimum of 30 days rest each. You are doing it on less than half that and receiving the same results (lush green pastures). You should definitely document your inputs and results for study.
Best Wishes and please keep the knowledge flowing...
Thanks, Dewey. Good thoughts here. Taking into account hay consumption thru winter, I’ve come up with about twice the productivity year round on a piece of ground in our area, as compared with traditional set stock grazing. Are the labor inputs worth it? I certainly believe so…but I also love it. We’ll see what happens this season! Another great read going back even before Savory is “Grass Productivity” by Andre Voisin. As he references, the peasant folks had figured out how to maximize the sigmoid curve of grass long before the academics came up with it. Take care, friend!
Will definitely add that to my library... on another note I cracked open the Savory book and his measurement is 1.32 per animal unit which means the total acreage would be closer to a 10 acre operation. So you are closer to a 20 percent utilization factor. Truely a Blessed Operation.
Great video man. Good to see men doing what we were meant to do.
Thanks Jon!🤠
This is amazing! Thanks for sharing all this amazing knowledge
Thanks, Collin. I hope it helps in the times just up ahead.
Hi from the Waikato in New Zealand. Like you we are on four acres with fodder/timber on all our boundaries. Inside we have blocks of nut and fruit which we run cattle and sheep between. I’d like to make a couple of comments if I may please. First, you are a natural teacher- been watching for a while now and your style of imparting your learning is easy and a pleasure to watch
Second, your particular method of rotation. About year ago I said to you that your “grazing is a function of time” was a gem. We here in NZ have the three day rule- doesn’t matter how many head, doesn’t matter the area, all that matters is you get the stock off in three days. After that and the grass goes into panic mode and starts to regrow with passion. To continue feeding only serves to stress the plant and so extends the recovery time. Your running cows and sheep is smart because each selects from a different menu making easier pasture maintenance. Also reduces the recovery time on each block. Ok, all on the same page. It’s the timing on the Chickens component I’d like to kick around please. You do thirty days cycle and I understand why. Again, we do at least 42 days because that is the like cycle of the majority of the usual parasites. If we/you were to hold the crooks back a week would that not give the eggs time to hatch so being eaten by our feathered clean up crew. It’s one thing to pick at and spread the dung straight away but is it not another to actually eradicate the the parasites. If that longer hold over period was effective then using your “grazing is a function of time” means it doesn’t actually matter if it’s thirty days or forty two days but what matter is when the paddock/pasture is clean. Experimenting and testing parasite load after different chicken hold back times would be very beneficial. In that way empirically you would know the real effective recovery cycle time, rather than an arbitrary guesstimate. I understand that parasite control is only one part, grass recovery being the other. Yet both are functions of season and environment but each can be quantified- summer cycle is faster than winter cycle is obvious, but by how much? Like you we want maximize the production of of our factory so watching you explain your journey is fantastic and thanks very much for making the effort to make these videos.
Thank you for your kind and encouraging words here and for following along! I like your thinking here and observations. My main issue with holding back chickens is that recovery time lengthens after chickens (or any other animal for that matter). Pasture parasites are not a main concern for us b/c we’ve selected grass-fed genetics in our cattle and sheep, and they thrive with zero dewormer year round. I’ve paid a price for that - both in dollars upfront and ongoing with giving up larger, quicker carcass weights in other breeds…but that’s what I wanted holistically. I’ve often wondered if running all three together at the same time (chickens, cattle, and sheep) would achieve what you’re saying - if the poo is flung by chickens immediately, would it limit parasites? Granted, some are advocating growing cow-pie maggots for chicken feed - I guess it all depends on goals. But you absolutely may be on to something there with holding back the birds for a bit if parasites are a primary concern. For me, pasture re-growth is more important than parasites since I have very little struggle there. Excellent talking points here, thanks!!🤠
Got it, you spent time and gold on quality stock to reduce (are red Devon’s a parasite hard breed?) the impact of parasites. Being on small acreage grass recovery is primary. Now I better understand your method. If you haven’t already in another vid, it might be an idea further expand on your rational. Thanks for replying, I can see it would take a lot of your time. Take care
@@gracegood3661I’ve never dewormed our Red Devons. They fend for themselves after weaning and must perform on 100% grass with no propping up. No vaccines, no dewormer, I’ve given antibiotics once in 4+ yrs for an eye infection. Minimal inputs is the only true way of independence for the small farm, only my opinion though. Best of wishes to you in New Zealand, friend.🤠
Been watching your videos. Thank you for sharing your experience and creative expertise in animal care and rotational grazing. Subscribed to your channel. Looking forward to seeing your next video. Watching from Brown county Texas. Praying for you, your wife and family and that you are blessed in all that you set your heart and mind to accomplish for His Devine Kingdom. (KJV John 1:4. “In Him was life, and that life was the Light of men.” 5. And the light shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehended it not.”) ☝️🙏🙌
Thank you, JD! Good words like these keep us goin!🙏
Love the references to the good Lord in your videos. A blessed individual you are.
Thanks for being here.🤠
Yeah buddy, we’re pushing through Covid down here but glad to see you back up on the net. We have been making content but just can’t get motivated to edit content, as you can understand. Anyway, seriously, thing look good for you with the health and welfare of the animals. Funny about the bees, we have two Layen’s hives going and they are doing ok but restless. Maybe the weather is causing the bees to swarm out of cycle, anyway, my very docile hive stung me repeatedly even though we are covered in chicory, etc. and we really aren’t in a dearth per se. Thanks for the good word, praying for your family. Dan and Elle
Aw Dan & Elle, sorry to hear about covid - I’ve noticed it has made somewhat of a surge up here lately as well. The bright side would be fighting it off in the summer when you can be outside and all the immunity you’ll have here soon, post-infection. Rest up, guys! (I think your Layen’s hives are amazing. I’ve gotta get cracking on a bee system that works up here!)
God bless from Waterford Ireland
Ireland, wow! Be well in Waterford.
I am just starting a homestead in New Richmond Ohio. Trying to do what you are doing. I am also starting a plant nursery. I have 3 Hoop Coop chicken tractors. Raising Bresse chickens.
Tom, welcome here and thanks for stopping by! I sincerely hope the supportive folks and content here help you get the heavy train rolling in the intended direction. Pop over in person if you’re ever up northwest of Cincy!
Quote from John, subscribed
Welcome 🙏
I’m always encouraged by the Truthful Word shared…thanks.
I have 52 acres and I have a great desire to start St. Croix.
I’m in western TN…how many sheep per acre and how often do you rotate. Also, what dog breed do you recommend?
Thanks for any advice. Steve
Thanks for the encouragement, Steve! I’m always hesitant to give grazing recommendations on stocking rate for other locations, but here in Ohio we can run about 6 St. Croix sheep/acre, more if rotating. We’re running quarter acre paddocks and rotating every 3 days, trying NOT to return to the same paddock for at least 30 days to help break the parasite (barber pole worm) cycle. We run cattle and sheep together, so no experience with dogs here. Best of luck on getting things going in TN and reach out if I can help!
My neighbor has an out of control field and I mowed it to get the thistles and the Tallow trees. The cows wanted nothing to do with those thistles until I ran over them with a bush hog. Smoothies! They went for it. This is the model I'm starting to work towards. here.
“Smoothies!”🤣🤣👍
“Smoothies!”🤣🤣👍
Amen brother that’s my goal for my farm in the future good livestock
Awesome, thanks for watching.
Lovely land.
Thank you
Do you think a grass fed operation like this would be reasonable on a total of 5 acres, possibly with a smaller herd and paddocks? And do you have any book or other resource recommendations to start the educational process? Husband and I just purchased 6 acres in East Texas to establish a productive homestead and I am fascinated with this as a possibility for us. Thank you in advance!
Hi Summer!
Yes, I think it’s certainly reasonable. Couple things: East Texas is very different grazing conditions than where I am. For this reason I recommend talking with either a local rancher and/or an extension office and find out what a conservative stocking rate is for your area and start there.
Books to read: The Independent Farmstead by Shawn and Beth Dougherty. Grass Productivity by Andre Voisin. Salad Bar Beef by Joel Salatin
Best of luck on your new homestead, Summer! Keep us posted on how things are going.
I am just getting started in Texas. I will be getting my first 2 angus cattle in a week. Looking to get my pastures setup. I will be feeding hay obviously to get through winter. But with 2 angus about 16 month old each. I would like to get your thoughts on paddock size. And how long to keep them on it.
Congrats! I don’t have the 1st clue about Texas climate and grazing. Here’s what I recommend: Talk to either your local extension office and/or a local farmer and see what an average stocking rate is for pastures in YOUR area. I always tell folks to start there and then improve over time through rotation. I could tell you what works here, but your grass growth and species will be totally different down there. I will say this - The general regenerative agriculture principles will still apply (keeping soil covered, diversity in pastures as well as animal species, moving animals regularly, and water retention). Stay in touch - I’d love to know how it goes!
But also love the message and your set up. Ever looked into pigs?
…I keep thinkin IPP’s…I just can’t get excited about buying all the grain. Can I do it on cow’s milk?🤠
im in Texas, Since there is no regrowth at the moment im going to keep them in most paddocks longer and giving them some protein like some alfalfa maybe some flaxseeed meal to help them digest the dry forage. my first paddock i grazed will be a sacrifice paddock since its had the most rest if i get to the point of running out of grass before it rains.
Man, I feel for you all. Just only so much you can do. I’ve been seeing the videos of long lines of trailers backed up to sell. Prayin for rain down there.
@@birchfieldfarming thanks we need it. Im luckier than most as i started this year and am working with a small group and started late so have more grass than most. Just hoping the inexperience doesnt bit me since this year takes some skill to graze through
@@masonbaylorbears Absolutely, but hey you should be able to handle about anything after this year, I would think! We’ve gone thru a few dry patches over the years (nothing like you’ve got there), and what always fascinated me was the psychosomatic connection for the farmer. So many want to romanticize the connection to the land, but those actually connected daily know there can be a price to pay. I realized the animals and consequently what they eat here are almost like an extension of our person, our being. Personally, I felt an unexpected toll on my physical body during that time. I hope you can take time away when necessary. Check in here anytime. Stay well, friend. Much respect from Ohio.
@@birchfieldfarming thanks for the insite on that ill keep that in mind. Appreciate the support and thanks for the videos helps keep my mind on what problems people are solving and what others are thinking about
Just curious, is there shelter in each paddock for the animals, or is shelter necessary during this season? Thanks for any info.
No shelter. Even in winter they stay out, but I will say having shade trees is very desirable for them this time of year. Not all my paddocks have shade, but they very much enjoy the ones that do.
Amen!!
Where did you get that hat? It's pretty sharp.
www.ynotlifestyle.com
Now the dirt and grime I can’t help you with…well, actually I could🤔
What is your rule on how much forage should be eaten, how much trampled and how much left standing?
Great question - I’ve never been as concerned with what a paddock looks like when we’re immediately done as I have been with the rest period and what the paddock looks like when we return. My rule, especially with the sheep (barber pole worm, etc), is to never return to the same piece of ground for at least 30 days. Most would probably say with our number of animals and how we look coming off a paddock that we’re overgrazing, but this approach has worked for us. The return is where I’m focused.
Hei bud,nice vid,quick question do you make or buy hay for the winter?
We have an arrangement with a local farmer on one of our fields in the back.
@@birchfieldfarming i’m in the process of buying s 7 acres farm and i’m looking to make my own hay,how many cows,sheep/pigs could i raise realistically in your opinion? Thank you
@@Tattoo_Noobie There are many many factors here which would determine your stocking rate. If you want to email me at birchfieldfarming@gmail.com with some specifics of your situation, I’d be glad to try and help.
Dry places like Texas should rotate every day for 60 days = 60 paddocks. This will work if they add chickens (wait 3-5 days) once the livestock leave the paddock.
An adaptive approach must allow for seasonality - grass on average grows twice as fast in May/June vs Aug/Sept (in my area). Couple this with varied precipitation patterns throughout the growing season, and you have a very complex set of circumstances each year. Observational flexibility is key.
How many of your animals do you keep for your freezer and how many animals do you sell?
Have sold all so far but plan on keeping some meat in the future.
Any problems with predators? Do you think the cows "help" protect the sheep/lambs?
Never had a predator problem with sheep. Yes, I do think cows help protect the sheep. One thing worth noting: We do have a perimeter fence around the property, and I have my electric paddock fencing within the larger perimeter fence. I’ve always wondered if the double fence helps us on predators quite a bit. I know for sure we have coyotes, though, as we hear them yelling with the distant trains.
Hello, we are just getting started on 5 acres and researching many things. Curious if you have tried mini cattle? Seems like they would sell very well to other small acreage homesteaders.
I’m definitely a believer that the smaller breeds are more profitable (Devons, Dexters, South Pole), but we haven’t ventured into the mini-breeds. My family loves to eat beef, so we’re gunning for the 100% grass-fed beef market. Somebody should graph cattle size vs. profitability, would love to see that data! Best of luck to you!
@@birchfieldfarming Thanks, and let me know when you have that cost comparison video ready. 😉😄
Chicory root is also a great coffee substitute.
I’ve seen that, how interesting!🤠
That's impressive numbers for that acreage. Your pastures look good. . Chicory is good stuff , it has medicinal properties for humans too. That's interesting saying , i dont know much about honey bees but its on my list of things to learn .Much love ❤️ 🙏
We’re blessed to get a good amount of rain each year. Lord willing, we’ll be grazing again here soon.
Can I ask a silly question? Will cattle wander into a wooded area or do I need to fence off my woods before grazing cattle on my property
They will certainly wander in there, especially if they need shade this time of year. Just a single hot wire should keep them out though.
Amen hallelujah
How much hay do you have to feed per year?
Last year was around 16 rounds and a couple hundred squares. Did a year-end video on the overall grazing and hay analysis back there somewhere.
Amen.
Have you noticed your chickens eating thistles? Mine will strip the leaves off of smaller thistles.
Interesting! Maybe you could have yours call mine and get them on the program, as that would be awesome! 🐓!
We have been in near drought here for quite a while. Glad you have not.
Oh man, no fun at all. Lord, bring rain🙏
I have about 1.5 acres of yard I was thinking on doing three .5 acre paddocks. For two dexter cows for home meat. Northern Indiana I live so not too dry as down south can get. I’m wondering if this would be enough? Not taking anyone’s yes as a green light but just curious on to any thoughts?
All depends on goals, but my take is it can certainly be done. Be aware though with a fewer amount of paddocks, you’ll tend more towards selective grazing, overgrazing, and eventually less productive paddocks. More labor upfront to build more paddocks, but it’s been worth it in our case here. What I’ve seen is longer rest periods with higher number of paddocks can improve the native pastures more rapidly, even eliminating the need to mechanically mow. 12 paddocks still only gets you to 16,000 lbs/acre - some say around 50K lbs/acre needed to see rapid range improvement. (That’s assuming your Dexters are 1,000 lbs each). So I double dog dare you to split your 1.5 acre yard into 36 paddocks🤠 🐮
Lol well I’m convinced as it does make complete sense on the overgrazing part or selective. More work but seems worth it in order to make things really work out. As for the 36 paddocks lol I think I can hint your sense of humor haha. Maybe 6 or 7 paddocks I’m convinced now can do the trick hmmm 😅
How are you doing with the chemical????
Thankfully, we are on the opposite side of the state. Even so, Cincinnati water works (about 45 min south of us) has closed the water intakes from Ohio river, so it’s impacting everyone. Water is life on a farm and my heart breaks for all those closer to the area. Thanks for asking about us!
I am just getting started doing this and want to make sure I am not making costly mistakes. How can I contact you?
Absolutely, shoot me an email at my gmail (Channel name). I’ll answer everything I can.
How do you keep your cows in my bull always break
2 hot wires extra crispy, one shock and mine never touch it again. Though I did see a bull throw my steer into the wires last week after he messed with his hay stash - looked like Hulk Hogan bouncing off the ropes! 💪🏻
Pretty cool
Just subscribed
We are new and small
10 sheep we have 2 acres with 3 more acres that we are allowed to graze on
Are next step is chickens to follow behind
And would really like to do a couple Dexter's soon
Right now our sheep are lambs and we rotate every one or 2 days sometimes 3 day If Sabbath falls in there
My average size right now is 16'x50ish'
I acre is thick lush lots of clover and fescue
The other is just grass
Wee have been feeding them on fence rows also lately
They real like honey suckle and black berries
How much bigger will my paddocks need to be once they mature and add 2 Dexter's?
Oh and by the way
Love the Gospel of John
The "THEY" in 10 10
Are the lost sheep
The 10 lost tribes He is the good shepherd of the Scriptures praiseYa!
HE was sent to the lost sheep
Thanks! And awesome thoughts on 10:10! As far as grazing and paddocks size, there are so many variables unknown to me here that I’m hesitant to even comment…but I will! My suggestion would be to use animal units since you are familiar with your sheep and what they need. Basically, figure out how many of your sheep account for your cow (usually 4 to 6) and then adjust your land needs about the same as you would for adding those extra sheep. I wish I could be more specific in helping, but just too many variables. This work is art! Be well.
Hi, new to farming so the vocabulary is lost on me. I saw in another comment you have 10 paddocks, 1/4 acre each. How many paddocks are occupied at once?
Hey Toons, welcome here! Just one paddock at a time. Started out with a smaller herd staying 3 days each paddock, but have since grown a bit and rotate every day, one paddock each day. Thanks for watching
@@birchfieldfarming Ah, I see. Are the chickens staying on the same paddock that the sheep and the cattle stay on, or are they separated?
@@ToonsGoofyMemesChickens run behind cattle in a separate paddock to break up cow pats. Cattle will not eat around their pats when we return to paddock 30 days later, so chickens doing this harrow work makes us much more productive.
I have been reading Joel Salatin and I think on my property I can rotate either 4 sheep or 2 angus heifers on 10 60x60 paddocks. What do you think? We just butchered 2 heifers and a steer after finishing them on sweet feed for 2 months. Do you do your own butchering? We just processed 21 Cornish cross a couple of weeks ago (the largest was 8.5 pounds in the bag). I incubate our own eggs and we have about 40 or 50 birds that will be egg layers (about 20 of those are roosters for the freezer). I you want a giant bird, cross an Americauna with a Golden Wyandot.
The standard for continuous set-stock grazing in our area is about 1 animal unit per acre. I’ve found that we’ve nearly doubled that by rotating, including factoring in winter hay. Looking at your numbers, you’d be at not quite 1 acre total (.8) with the 10 paddocks, so the cattle would definitely be more challenging. 4 sheep would be less than one animal unit, so I’d say you’d be conservative to start there. Now, the challenge with sheep will be trying not to return to the same paddock for at least 30 days to interrupt the parasite cycle (barber pole worm). So could you stay on each paddock for 3 days? 2 thoughts: I’m finding variable speed grazing, depending on the season, is what works best for us. The other thought - If you can get ahold of a book from the 1950’s called “Grass Productivity” by Andre Voisin - worth its weight in GOLD for what we’re doing. His data in there on the sigmoid curve of grass pretty much laid the foundation for current regenerative grass work and thinking.
Yes, we process on farm. We do a couple batches of 100 Cornish thru summer (auto-plucker and friends). I have done a heifer, but I’m not great at it. I’ve always wanted to taste our St. Croix sheep, but we’ve always sold out our stock as breeders each year. You’ve got me curious on the chicken cross - I’ll be looking into that! Take care, Tom!
Joel is the LAST PERSON on earth I’d ever listen to. Nothing but a fraud if you look into enough videos.
امين ✝️🙏
As a honey bee I can confirm he his correct
🤣🤣
For the flys problem, you can buy ears fly tags. Is going to help you
Thanks…The problem with the insecticidal fly products is they’re harmful to much more than the flies (dung beetles, etc). We have an ACV based spray we make and use. Perhaps they make a non-insecticidal fly tag I don’t know about.
Drag the field(I use a piece of chain link fence)the second you remove the animals.
@@frankslaman3950 - why do you drag the field? Does it disrupt the lavae cycle ? New to all of this and trying to learn….
@@Elizabeth-zo9xo yes! It’s smashes and separates the cow patties where the larvae are. Not 100%, but it helps.
Consider cedarwood oil to help with flies...
I’ll check it out, thanks!
W God
Pertaining to keeping bees, don’t harvest the honey for the first 18-months. Harvest once every June after that and no more.
Interesting idea, never heard that before
A couple of goats would clean that Canadian thistle right up for you.
Probably some unexpected dancing on my car hood and barn roofs as well, right? (Usually in the middle of the night). We had one down at the camp I worked for years ago. Pulled up one day and there it was on the barn roof - nobody had a clue how it got there!🤣🤣
Вітання з Украіни, Киів. Брат, я такий радий що ви віруюча людина, слава Ісусу . Дякую за відео.
Yes, all praise to Jesus. Thank you for your encouragement!
Just heard joel salatin say in a justin rhodes video that cows will eat thistle if you chop it down and let it dry out
…so basically make hay out of it? Interesting.
✌️✌️🇧🇩🇧🇩🇧🇩🇧🇩😍😍
Sounds like a lot of inputs
Animals that eat grass??
Please sir just a quick question I have 16 hectares of land in Cameroon can I 20 cows and 100 sheep in that property
I have no idea. I’m in Ohio, USA.
@@birchfieldfarming how have you divided
How much party have you divided your 5 arces for 30 rest periods
@@edwinfai5910 Quantity of 10 paddocks, each is 1/4 acre. We rotate every 3 days with an overflow paddock at the end for a buffer if needed.
@@birchfieldfarming thanks I cut the paddocks like you said 1/4 of an arce sir
I start grazing when the grass is a foot high and move them when the livestock has eaten the top half, where the highest nutrients are concentrated. Besides, livestock doesn't like full-grown plants as much. Leaving 6" covers the ground better, protecting it from the sun, which lets the pasture recover quicker.
Yes, I agree
First
The condition of your animals look poor and may be a result of over stocking. You can see their ribs.
Could be. Could also be you have a very limited perspective on your visual video assessment of my livestock and zero knowledge of the context into which you’re commenting. When basic needs are not being met, animals will not reproduce. Reproduction is secondary to basic needs. We had one ewe that raised triplet rams that weaned a combined body weight over 100 lbs this year! Yes, she was thin for a time after that, but nothing to do with over stocking/not getting enough. Our cows and ewes are producing what I’m seeking on 100% grass, which also means body conditions will vary depending on what stage our mammas are in with nursing/offspring. We also run some dairy lines (American Milking Devon) in our beef herd and dairy animals are going to look thinner b/c they are putting their resources toward milk production. My point here is CONTEXT is important when making an assessment like the one you’ve made, Bart.