Sunday, August 11, 2019

Farm life this summer

This summer, not unlike last summer has had its share of rain.  Lots of rain actually.  This is a good thing, always- for sheep farmers.  Rain makes grass, grass feeds sheep.  The only thing to watch for is to make sure that you have ground that has good drainage, so that their feet do not stay wet- as that can cause problems.  Fortunately, there are lots of hills, and good drainage at this place.

Last weekend I for a load of second cut, alfalfa/grass hay.  These bales were actually mostly alfalfa, and they were HUGE.  These bales were easily almost twice the normal size.  I will need a wheel barrow to tote them to the sheep.  As I cleaned up the chaff from the unload site, and gave it to the sheep, they were immediately diving into it.

My young dog is doing very well on the sheep.  The penny has dropped, and he has proven to me, that he is indeed a real sheepdog.  Joe is still my number one helper, but Robbie will be a great up and comer.  He's got great biddability, feel for the sheep, and a natural gatherer - all qualities I require in a sheepdog.

Going into the fall, I feel ready for what is to come.