March 20, 2009 – Calving has started!
March 20, 2009
It’s been awhile since I’ve written a post – winter was long and uninteresting. But now – the babies have started! Our milk supply in February and early March was extremely low this year – a function primarily of very little grain feeding (about 3 pounds of oats/molasses/mineral) per animal per day. Love it or hate it, grain does “make” milk. We believe our animals are healthier without it, and that subsequently, the milk quality is better tasting and better for you.
The animals look good coming into calving season. Except for one unfortunate baby whose front legs were bent back, preventing a timely entrance into the world, the balance of the calves have been lively and healthy. We have moved 4 of the calves to their outside paddocks already. These paddocks are big enough for a good run and have a group size hut bedded with clean dry straw for bad weather and a good night’s sleep.
Our Store’s foot traffic has slowed a bit. A few of our customers have lost jobs or had their work hours cut back. We certainly feel for anyone affected by the current economy. Both organic and conventional milk are feeling the slowdown. We’ve just been informed that our milk price is getting cut $1.00/cwt (hundred weight) in February, with another $1.00/cwt cut in May.
Now is a good time to remember the basics. Stay away from processed foods (organic or not). With limited dollars, you need to look for nutrient dense foods that give you maximum health. Any time you let a processor put together a food for you (ex. – spice seasoning packets, salad dressings, canned soups), you will pay more and get less.
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