| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| islander |
Posted - Nov 27 2006 : 11:32:18 AM
Hello all!
I stumbled upon this forum when I was searching desperately for information on how to start a pasture. I mean I'm starting from scratch. Completely. And I was born and raised in the big city and have absolutely NO idea how to get to what I have rattling around in my brain. I'm trying to not get overwhelmed. Even the simplest jobs seem enormous. I'm hoping there's someone out there who can guide me through the process. The hubby and I sat down last night and wrote up our goals, scratched out a layout of how the 10 acres should look when we're done... it will probably be revised about a dozen times before it actually comes to fruition. But it feels like a start. Our initial goal was to be self-sustaining. After 2 seasons worth of produce that's fed our family, I've decided that I'd like to form a CSA for my area. We've raised 2 feeder (freezer) pigs and we're considering getting a sow to breed. We've also got about 20 hens and 3 Muscovy ducks (the ducks are purely for pleasure... they're so darn funny!). Add in the dogs, cats and kids and it would seem that we're on our way. But it all feels so temporary still. So if there's anyone out there with some ideas on how to turn my acres of scotch broom into lush pasture and paddocks, I'd be much obliged. I look forward to getting to know you gals as the weeks go on....
Rebecca from Anderson Island, WA |
| 13 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| Libbie |
Posted - Dec 02 2006 : 3:33:44 PM
I SO love "seed catalogue" time of year! It makes this ridiculously cold weather we're having almost worth it! I have a good excuse to spend the evening poring over catalogues by the woodstove. Ahhhh...... - and Rebecca - WELCOME!!!
XOXO, Libbie
"Nothing is worth more than this day." - Goethe |
| islander |
Posted - Dec 02 2006 : 3:26:38 PM
Thanks for the warm welcome everybody. I'm so excited this weekend because the seed catalogs are pouring in... Yippie!!!! |
| Kelly43 |
Posted - Nov 28 2006 : 3:27:18 PM
Welcome Rebecca (great name by the way, my youngest's name!!),
Your place sounds so fun. So many dreams to make come true and things to look forward to. Hang in there, everything worth anything takes time. We will really enjoy helping you along the way and hearing of your adventures!!!
Kelly |
| KellyA |
Posted - Nov 28 2006 : 1:43:06 PM
Welcome, Rebecca...
Good luck with your pasture...all I can suggest is take it step by step. The big picture can be too overwhelming! Also, listen to these ladies...they have "been there, done that" and can be a big help!
Kelly
When a cookbook is in hand, life is good! |
| beckels |
Posted - Nov 27 2006 : 6:59:53 PM
Welcome Rebecca!
The only information I could give you as a FYI in getting information for pastures - is your local extension office. But Good Luck! and Welcome to the FarmGirl world
Beckels |
| Phils Ann |
Posted - Nov 27 2006 : 4:36:06 PM
Rebecca, a book that might help is "Greener Pastures on Your Side of the Fence". It is specifically geared toward pasturing animals without needing to grain finish them... and how to make and keep the pasture healthy. There is discussion about getting rid of harmful and poisonous plants, as well as lots of resource references. You can look it over on Amazon if you're interested in learning more.
Another book I really like is Steve Solomon's
"Gardening When it Counts". He began the Territorial Seed Co. in around 1980 in the northwest, and has tried it all and knows what does and doesn't work. I like the on-line Soil and Health library which, I believe, he started--classic books in a free library on-line: www.soilandhealth.org/
He also cites www.attra.ncat.org as being helpful,
and I see a link to "ask an expert" on it.
I know how frustrating it is to feel like there's so much to learn, and you can't do anything until you figure out what needs to be done first...
Blessings,
Ann
There is a Redeemer. |
| Tina Michelle |
Posted - Nov 27 2006 : 4:02:56 PM
welcome to the group.
~Seize the Day! Live, Love, Laugh~ |
| ThymeForEweFarm |
Posted - Nov 27 2006 : 2:24:07 PM
Welcome! The cooperative extension in your county should be helpful with your pasture questions.
Robin
www.thymeforewe.com
|
| blueroses |
Posted - Nov 27 2006 : 2:03:33 PM
Hi Rebecca,
Welcome. Can't help with the pasture, but happy to meet you and have you join us.
"You cannot find peace...by avoiding life."
Virginia Woolfe |
| Phils Ann |
Posted - Nov 27 2006 : 1:32:05 PM
Hi Rebecca! You might need information on the pasture, but you sure have a good start on the livestock We also want to make pasture out of a worn-out field. I'll be delighted to pass on any information that seems helpful... but we're absolute novices at this. ohioearthfood.com is a site I'm looking at.
Ann
There is a Redeemer. |
| beachbuminthecountry |
Posted - Nov 27 2006 : 12:48:52 PM
Welcome Rebecca,
I am new too. I have 4 pekin ducks--Huey,Dewy,Luey, and Chewy. I call them 2 things--clowns in duck suits and when it rains- pigs in duck suits.
BB
If Satan comes knocking at your door, just say " Jesus can you get that for me" |
| Aunt Jenny |
Posted - Nov 27 2006 : 12:19:46 PM
WElcome Rebecca! You are gonna love it here..I am glad you found us! I used to have muscovy ducks and they ARE funny!!
Jenny in Utah
Inside me there is a skinny woman crying to get out...but I can usually shut her up with cookies
http://www.auntjennysworld.blogspot.com/ visit my little online shop at www.auntjenny.etsy.com |
| Beemoosie |
Posted - Nov 27 2006 : 11:47:58 AM
You are definately in the right place Rebecca! Welcome!
Bonnie
...she is far more precious than jewels and her value is far above rubies or pearls.
Prov 31:10
www.beequilting.blogspot.com |
