Fall is a busy and important season for livestock and dairy farms in New York State. As the temperatures drop and the leaves change color, farmers are hard at work preparing for the colder months ahead and managing seasonal tasks that keep their farms running smoothly.
On dairy farms, fall is a time for wrapping up the harvest of feed crops like corn and hay. These crops are critical for feeding cows during the winter when fresh grass is no longer available. Farmers work to ensure they have enough stored feed to keep their herds healthy and produce milk throughout the winter months. Silage, which is chopped and fermented corn, is stored in silos or large plastic bags and becomes a key part of the cows’ diet when the pasture season ends.
Livestock farms, such as those raising beef cattle, sheep, or goats, also prepare for winter by managing their herds and pastures. In the fall, animals may be moved from summer grazing pastures to areas where they can be more easily monitored and cared for during the colder weather. Farmers often do health checks to ensure their animals are in good condition before the harsher winter conditions arrive.
In addition to feeding and caring for animals, fall is also a time for breeding. Many farmers plan their breeding schedules so that cows, sheep, or goats give birth in the spring when the weather is milder, and the grass is growing again. Fall breeding ensures the animals will be pregnant during the winter, ready to deliver healthy babies as the new spring season begins.
Preparing the farm itself for winter is another big task in the fall. Farmers check barns, fences, and equipment to make sure everything is ready for snow and freezing temperatures. Water systems need to be protected from freezing, and any repairs to buildings or machinery are usually done before the weather gets too harsh.
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