You can generally keep two miniature cows per acre, or even three on very good pastures, but the exact number depends on pasture quality, management practices like rotational grazing, rainfall, and the specific miniature breed. A rule of thumb for calculating pasture needs is about 3/4 to 1 acre per “cow unit” (a 1,000 lb animal), so using this for miniature breeds is a good starting point.

Factors that influence stocking rates:

Pasture Quality:

Higher-quality pastures with good grass growth will support more animals than unimproved or wooded pastures.

Rainfall:

Adequate rainfall is essential for grass to grow and recover, impacting how many cows an acre can sustain.

Management Practices:

Rotational grazing, where you move cows between different pasture sections, allows the land to recover and can significantly increase the number of animals you can keep.

Breed:

Different miniature breeds have varying nutritional needs and sizes, affecting the land required.

Supplementation:

If your pasture is not sufficient, you may need to provide supplemental hay or feed, especially during the winter or dry periods.

Tips for small acreages:

Consult your County Extension agent:

They can provide specific advice tailored to your local conditions and pasture types.

Consider rotational grazing:

Dividing your pasture into smaller sections and rotating your cows through them is the best way to manage land and keep the pasture healthy.

Monitor your pasture:

Keep an eye on the grass height to ensure it doesn’t get too bare, which can harm the pasture and the animals.

To make a tree stump rot faster, you can use a combination of drilling, moisture, and additives like Epsom salt or high-nitrogen fertilizer to accelerate decomposition. The process creates a hospitable environment for the fungi and bacteria that naturally break down wood.

Step 1: Cut and drill the stump
First, cut the stump as low to the ground as possible to minimize the amount of wood that needs to decompose. Then, use a large drill bit (at least 1 inch wide) to bore several deep holes into the top of the stump.

Drill holes 8 to 10 inches deep, spacing them a few inches apart.
Drill additional holes into any major surface roots you can expose.

This process increases the surface area exposed to moisture and additives, and creates channels for them to penetrate deeper.

Step 2: Add an accelerating agent
Fill the drilled holes with one of the following agents.

Epsom salt

This is a popular and relatively safe DIY method. The magnesium sulfate in Epsom salt draws moisture out of the stump, dehydrating and killing it, while also accelerating decay.

Fill the holes with Epsom salt.
Add just enough water to saturate the salt.

Cover the stump to prevent rain from washing away the salt and to keep moisture in.

Reapply the salt every few weeks.
High-nitrogen fertilizer
This method feeds the microbes that break down the wood.

Use a high-nitrogen fertilizer, such as ammonium sulfate or ammonium nitrate.

Fill the holes with fertilizer granules.
Pour hot water over the stump to help the fertilizer dissolve and penetrate.

Cover the stump with a high-nitrogen material like compost or horse manure to add more microbes and keep it moist.

Potassium nitrate

Commercial stump-removal products often contain potassium nitrate, which provides more oxygen for the bacteria that decompose wood fiber.

Fill the drilled holes with potassium nitrate granules.

Pour hot water into the holes.
Follow the product’s instructions for additional steps.

Step 3: Maintain moisture
Keeping the stump consistently damp is crucial for the microbial activity that causes decomposition.
Cover the stump: After adding your agent, cover the stump with a plastic tarp and weigh it down with rocks, bricks, or mulch.

Keep it wet: Water the stump regularly, especially during dry spells, to maintain the damp conditions needed for fungi and bacteria to thrive.

Use mulch: A layer of organic mulch or compost on top of the stump also helps retain moisture and introduces more beneficial microbes.

Step 4: Add fire (optional, if local laws permit)

If burning is allowed in your area, you can accelerate the process once the stump has dried out from a salt treatment.

Once the stump is sufficiently dry, you can ignite it to burn out the remaining wood.

Exercise extreme caution and check with your local fire department for regulations.

Consider the stump type
The time it takes for a stump to rot depends largely on the type of wood.

Softwoods like white pine or Douglas fir decompose faster.
Hardwoods such as oak can take much longer to decay naturally.

Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) has a long history of traditional use for treating symptoms associated with fevers, colds, and flu, but it should be approached with caution due to safety concerns. The name boneset comes from its use in treating “breakbone fever,” an old name for dengue fever, which caused severe muscle and bone aches. While traditional applications focus on stimulating the immune system and promoting sweating, modern scientific evidence is limited and recommends careful use.

Disclaimer: Due to potential toxicity and the presence of liver-damaging alkaloids, Boneset is not recommended for internal use without expert medical supervision.

Traditional and historical uses
Historically, boneset was used by Native Americans and early American settlers for a variety of conditions, often prepared as a hot, bitter tea.

Fever and flu: As a diaphoretic, it was used to induce sweating to “break” fevers and alleviate the aches and pains associated with influenza and dengue fever.

Respiratory ailments: It was used as an expectorant to help loosen mucus and clear congestion in the chest and sinuses.

Immune stimulation: Early herbalists used boneset as an immune stimulant to help the body fight off minor viral and bacterial infections.

Digestive aid: Its bitter properties were traditionally thought to stimulate digestion, though large doses were known to cause vomiting.

Modern scientific perspective
Scientific evidence for the safety and effectiveness of boneset is limited, and most studies are either lab-based (in vitro) or preliminary.

Antiviral and immune properties: Some in vitro studies suggest that boneset may stimulate immune cell function and inhibit influenza viruses by preventing them from attaching to host cells.

Anti-inflammatory effects: Preclinical studies indicate that certain compounds in boneset may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Lack of clinical evidence: There are insufficient clinical trials to confirm the effectiveness of boneset for treating colds, flu, or other conditions in humans.

Safety concerns and precautions
Due to its chemical composition, boneset carries significant health risks and should not be used without medical consultation.

Liver damage: Boneset contains potentially toxic compounds called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). While some sources claim the levels are minimal in Eupatorium perfoliatum, others warn that PAs can cause serious liver damage, especially with long-term use.

Gastrointestinal issues: Ingesting large doses can cause severe diarrhea and vomiting.

Allergic reactions: Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family, such as ragweed, daisies, and marigolds, may experience an allergic reaction.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Boneset is considered possibly unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women and should be avoided.

Drug interactions: Boneset may interact with medications broken down by the liver. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential.

.989 Organic Grass Feed

Born August 10th, 2025

Sally gave birth to 7 babies, one didn’t make it past the first day. The other Six are very healthy and active.

Four girls and two boys. We are keeping the two boys, barrowed them Labor Day weekend. Two femails are spoken for, the other two might still be available.

For those looking to support adrenal health, particularly in cases of stress-related fatigue, a diet of nutrient-rich whole foods and targeted herbal supplements is often recommended. Adrenal glands are responsible for producing hormones like cortisol, which helps the body manage stress.

Foods for adrenal support
Focus on fresh, unprocessed foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Vitamins and minerals:

Vitamin C: Found in high concentrations in the adrenal glands and needed to produce cortisol. Foods include bell peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries, and broccoli.

B Vitamins: Essential for energy production and managing stress. Sources include leafy greens, eggs, organ meats, and lentils.

Magnesium: Helps calm the nervous system and improves sleep. Found in dark leafy greens, avocados, nuts, and seeds.

Zinc: Involved in hormone production and immune function. Good sources are oysters, pumpkin seeds, and grass-fed beef.

Selenium: An antioxidant that supports adrenal and thyroid function. Brazil nuts are an excellent source.

Iodine: A trace mineral found in seaweed and seafood.

Sodium: Mineral-rich salt, like Celtic sea salt, can help with low blood pressure that sometimes accompanies adrenal issues.

Macronutrients:

Healthy Fats: Vital for hormone production. Eat avocados, olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish like salmon.

Quality Protein: Helps stabilize blood sugar, reducing stress on the adrenals. Choose lean meats, fish, eggs, and legumes.

Complex Carbohydrates: Provide sustained energy to prevent blood sugar crashes. Opt for whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats, as well as starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes.

Herbs (adaptogens) for adrenal support
Adaptogens are herbs that help the body manage and adapt to stress.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): An Ayurvedic herb that may help regulate cortisol levels, improve energy, and reduce anxiety.

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea): May boost energy, enhance mental clarity, and decrease stress-related fatigue.

Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum): Also known as Tulsi, this adaptogen may help balance cortisol and support a healthy inflammatory response.

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus): Historically used to improve stamina, endurance, and overall resistance to stress.

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Can help sustain cortisol levels. Use this herb cautiously and with medical guidance, as it can raise blood pressure.

Maca Root: A Peruvian plant used to support hormonal balance and increase energy.

Reishi Mushroom: Used in Eastern medicine to increase resilience to stress and promote a sense of calm.

Foods and substances to avoid
To reduce stress on the adrenal glands, consider limiting or avoiding the following:

Refined sugars and processed carbs: These cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, forcing the adrenals to work harder.

Excessive caffeine: Can overstimulate the adrenal glands and disrupt sleep.

Alcohol: Interferes with hormone balance and can disrupt sleep patterns.

Processed and fried foods: These are often low in nutrients and high in unhealthy fats, adding to bodily stress.

Disclaimer: Before making significant changes to your diet or adding new supplements, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take medication, it is important to consult a qualified healthcare professional. Some of these recommendations, such as the use of licorice root, require particular caution.

A diet that combines elements of both carnivore and vegetarian diets is often referred to as a flexitarian diet or a plant-forward diet. This approach emphasizes plant-based foods but allows for occasional inclusion of meat, poultry, or fish. It’s a more flexible way to eat, allowing for a mix of both animal and plant-based sources of nutrition.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Flexitarian/Plant-forward:

This is the most common way to describe a diet that blends the two. It means prioritizing plant-based foods while still incorporating some animal products.

Pescatarian:

This diet includes fish and seafood but excludes other meat, making it a vegetarian diet with the addition of fish.

Carnivore Lite:

Some people who primarily follow the carnivore diet may incorporate small amounts of low-carb vegetables like leafy greens or sweet potatoes for added nutrients and fiber. This is not a true combination of both diets, but rather a modification of the carnivore diet.

Yes, pigs can potentially become infected with Johne’s disease, also known as paratuberculosis, from sheep and goats. While Johne’s disease primarily affects ruminants like sheep, goats, and cattle, the bacterium causing the disease, Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), can be transmitted to other species, including pigs.

Key points on Johne’s disease transmission

Primary Transmission Route: The main route of infection is fecal-oral, meaning animals ingest the bacterium from feed or water contaminated with infected feces.

Contaminated Environments:

Infected animals shed MAP in their manure, contaminating the environment, including pastures, feed and water sources, and housing areas.

Young Animals Most Susceptible: Newborns and young animals are particularly vulnerable to infection.
Potential for Cross-Species Transmission: Studies indicate that the infection can spread from one ruminant species to another (e.g., cattle to goats or sheep).

Pigs as Atypical Hosts: While pigs are not the natural hosts, there have been reports of MAP infecting them, and even causing illness, according to the Johne’s Information Center.

Important notes

Johne’s disease is not the same as Crohn’s disease in humans: While some researchers explore a potential connection between MAP and Crohn’s disease, the majority of gastroenterologists do not believe there is a direct causal link.

Prevalence in Pigs: Compared to ruminants, the occurrence of Johne’s disease in pigs is less common, but the possibility of transmission and infection exists, especially in environments where pigs share housing or pastures with infected sheep or goats.

Biosecurity Measures:

Implementing strong biosecurity measures, such as proper manure management, cleaning and disinfection of facilities, and preventing co-housing of pigs with ruminants from unknown health status, can help reduce the risk of transmission.

If you suspect Johne’s disease in your animals, consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and advice on prevention and control strategies.

Yes, goats can contract Johne’s disease, also known as paratuberculosis, from sheep.  Johne’s disease is a chronic, contagious bacterial infection that affects the intestines of various ruminants, including sheep, goats, and cattle. It is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP).

Here’s why goats can get it from sheep:

Transmission:

Johne’s disease is primarily spread through fecal-oral transmission, meaning animals can become infected by ingesting the bacteria present in the feces of infected animals.

Shared Pastures:

Goats can contract the disease by grazing on pastures previously used by sheep infected with Johne’s.

Species-to-Species Transmission:
Johne’s disease can be transmitted between different ruminant species, including sheep and goats, according to www.nj.gov.

Key points about Johne’s disease in goats:

Clinical Signs: In goats, the most consistent sign of Johne’s disease is chronic weight loss, even with a good appetite. Diarrhea may also occur, though it’s less common than in cattle.

No Cure: There is no cure for Johne’s disease.

Prevention: Maintaining a closed herd, purchasing animals from Johne’s-tested herds, and avoiding shared grazing with infected animals are crucial preventative measures, according to the American Dairy Goat Association.

The price of a goat can vary significantly, depending on several factors including:

Breed: Different breeds have different purposes (meat, milk, fiber, pets) which can affect their value.

Age and Sex: Younger goats and breeding animals (especially bucks with superior genetics) typically cost more than older goats or neutered males (wethers).

Quality: Show-quality goats or those with proven breeding potential will command higher prices than pet-quality animals.

Registration: Registered purebred goats are often more expensive than unregistered ones.

Location and Market Demand:

Prices can vary by region and fluctuate based on seasonal demand, with higher prices in late winter and early spring and lower prices in the summer.

Price ranges

Pet-quality kid: $200 – $500
Breeding-quality doe (female): $500 – $1,500

Breeding-quality buck (male): $1,000 – $3,000 or more

Show-quality goat: $2,000 – $5,000 or more

Registered purebred miniature goat (e.g., Nigerian Dwarf, Pygmy): Up to $500

Unregistered Nubian doeling: Under $200

Unregistered Nubian doe in milk: $200 – $400

Wethers (castrated males): $100 – $200

Boer goat doe (quality, registered): $600

Boer goat buckling (untested, good breeding lines): $1,200

Considerations

Buying from a breeder: Generally more expensive but offers more information about lineage, health, and quality.

Adoption: Can be less expensive, sometimes as low as $40-$80 for a Pygmy goat, and may include health records.

Goat dairies: Some may even give away bucklings for free.

Local auctions or online marketplaces (e.g., Craigslist, Facebook groups): May offer cheaper goats but require careful assessment of health and temperament.

Note: It’s always advisable to ask about health records and ensure the goat has been tested for common diseases like CL, CAE, and Johne’s, regardless of where you purchase it.

Citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree, and rosemary will all naturally repel fleas. If your dog doesn’t mind a spray bottle, dilute a few drops of your chosen essential oil into a 300ml-400ml of water and spray directly onto your dog’s coat.

Fleas

Several herbs and essential oils can be used as natural remedies to repel or eliminate fleas. These include lavender, lemongrass, peppermint, cedarwood, rosemary, and neem oil. Essential oils are often used in homemade flea sprays, diluted in water or a carrier oil, and applied to pets or their environment. Herbs can also be used to create flea-repellent collars or added to pet bedding.

Here’s a more detailed look at some natural flea remedies:

Essential Oils:

Lavender:

A popular choice due to its pleasant scent for humans and its ability to repel fleas and ticks. It can be used in a spray, added to pet bedding, or applied to a collar.

Lemongrass:

Known for its citrusy scent and insect-repelling properties, lemongrass oil can be effective in repelling fleas.

Peppermint:

Fleas strongly dislike the smell of peppermint and it can even kill them at high concentrations. It can be used in a spray or added to pet bedding.

Cedarwood:

Cedarwood oil is a potent natural flea repellent and can be used to treat both pets and their environment.

Rosemary:

Rosemary can be used to make a flea-repelling dip or added to pet bedding and collars.

Neem Oil:

Neem oil is an effective natural remedy for flea and tick control, repelling and soothing irritated skin.

Tea Tree Oil:

A few drops of tea tree oil diluted in a carrier oil can be massaged into a pet’s coat to help repel fleas.

Herbs:

Lavender: As mentioned, lavender is a great herb for repelling fleas, and can be planted around the yard.
Rosemary: Similar to its essential oil, rosemary can be planted in the yard or added to pet bedding.

Mint: Mint, including peppermint and spearmint, is a natural flea repellent and can be planted or used in a spray.

Catnip: Catnip can be used to make a flea-repelling spray.

Wormwood: Wormwood is another herb that can be used for flea control.

Other Natural Remedies:

Apple Cider Vinegar: The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar can help repel fleas.

Coconut Oil: Rubbing coconut oil into a pet’s coat can help deter fleas.

Important Considerations:

Dilution:

When using essential oils, it’s crucial to dilute them properly with a carrier oil (like coconut oil, grapeseed oil, or almond oil) to avoid skin irritation.

Safety:

While many essential oils are safe for dogs, some can be toxic to cats. Always research the safety of any oil before using it on your pet.

Home Environment:

Treat your pet’s environment (bedding, carpets, etc.) with natural flea repellents as well to help eliminate the infestation.

Professional Advice:

Consult with a veterinarian or pest control professional for advice on the most effective and safe flea control methods for your specific situation, especially if you have a serious infestation.

Fleas