From Farm to Table: The Journey of Sweet Corn

Raising sweet corn is a delicious summer crop, an educational experience for children, and an opportunity to generate additional income.

Its taste is a universal joy of the summer season and is more than just a treat. The selection of the best variety and consumer education are vital in the cultivation process.

The quintessential American summer food, sweet corn on the cob, is one of the few vegetable crops that originated in the Americas. Its origins trace back to the American Indians, who developed the sweeter variety by selectively breeding for sweetness qualities.

This was achieved through a gene mutation that causes the kernels to contain twice as much sugar and less starch than field corn varieties.

The history of corn provides a rich tapestry for family conversations on food traditions. The Foodways 4-H Folkpatterns Project presents many ideas and activities to explore these traditions.

For instance, preserving sweet corn by freezing is a tradition in many families, and it can be enjoyed later during Thanksgiving dinner. The corn can be frozen either on the cob or after blanching, with the latter method involving removing the kernels.

Overall, raising sweet corn has many benefits beyond its delicious taste. It is a versatile crop that can be grown for personal use or profit. Its history provides a rich foundation for family discussions, and its preservation for future use is a time-honored tradition.

So, why not try cultivating sweet corn and reap its many rewards?

Sweet Corn: A Versatile and Nutritious Crop for Summer Meals

Sweet corn is a variety of maize that owes its name to a natural genetic mutation that gives it an especially sweet taste. To preserve its sugar levels, sweet corn is harvested in its immature form, also known as the ‘milk stage.’

Its sugar content quickly converts to starch if left too long on the plant. This crop, native to the Americas, has gained global popularity and is grown on every continent except Antarctica.

In America, the largest sweet corn producer globally, one can find a magnificent corn palace in Mitchell, South Dakota. Every year, fresh crops of corn and other grains are used to create beautiful murals on the palace’s exterior.

Additionally, the tallest sweet corn plant ever grown reportedly measured an astounding 10.74m in height.

While corn is technically a grain, it is widely used as a vegetable. Each ear or cob has 16 rows and can contain up to 800 kernels.

The silks at the top of the cob correspond to each kernel, and sweet corn is available in ample supply throughout the summer in stores and roadside stalls.

Credit: The Spruce

Sweet corn can be used in many dishes, from salads and cakes to salsas and stir-fries. Boiled, microwaved, or thrown on the barbecue, sweet corn is a versatile ingredient.

Sweet corn is high in carbohydrates, much like potatoes. It contains antioxidant carotenoids, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health.

When buying fresh corn, look for green, fresh husks, pale green silks, and plump kernels without wrinkles or dents. Keep your corn in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator, with the husks still on, and use them within a day or two to avoid losing their sweetness.

Here are a few tips to get the most out of your sweet corn: for a quick snack, microwave a cob of corn in its husk on high for about 5 minutes. You can make creamed corn by grating cooked corn from the cob.

If you are barbecuing cobs, plunge them into iced water about an hour before cooking to ensure they cook evenly. Sweet corn is a delicious and versatile crop with many health benefits, making it an excellent addition to any plate.

Family Traditions of Sweet Corn Farming

In the verdant lands of Bledsoe County, Tennessee, lies the Century Farm, owned by the LaFevor family. The sweet corn crop, which they have been tending for five years, has become a cherished tradition for this family.

Jenna LaFevor’s uncle, Lynn Johnson, was the one who introduced them to the practice. Starting to fund his daughter’s education, Lynn and his wife, Sherry, began growing sweet corn, with their daughter Elle joining in later.

The family tradition continues with the LaFevors, and their daughter, Landry, now helps to cultivate the crop as well. Another Tennessee farmer, Charlie Barker, has been raising sweet corn for many years, aiming to generate income for his kids.

With guidance from a vegetable specialist and seed company representative, LaFevors and Barker provide invaluable insights into selecting the best variety of sweet corn to suit one’s needs.

credit: hobbyfarms

Tips for selecting and handling sweet corn

As summer approaches, the sight of fresh sweet corn on display at your local grocery store or farm stand will surely excite your taste buds. Whether you prefer yellow, white, or bi-color corn, you’ll find that the supersweet variety comes in all three colors.

Interestingly, people’s preferences for corn color are primarily based on their upbringing and cultural background rather than the sugar content or quality of the corn.

When selecting sweet corn, it’s essential to watch for signs of quality, such as fresh green husks and ears filled to the tip. Avoid picking ears with dried, yellowed, or straw-colored husks, as these indicate age or damage.

Additionally, kernels should be tender, full, and firm enough to break under slight pressure, with no signs of shriveling or ‘denting.’ Well-filled kernels should have shiny, dark-brown silk, and the silk ends should be free from decay or worm injury.

While wide sweet corn varieties are available, the LaFevor and Barker families both raise Obsession and Temptation, which are popular bicolor varieties.

Obsession, an 80-day super sweet corn has a lower stalk that is easier to pick and less likely to be blown over by the wind. Temptation, a 70-day sugar-enhanced variety, is less labor-intensive than other varieties.

Other popular varieties in the area include Ambrosia, Peaches and Cream, and Silver Queen, all hybrid varieties with different flavors and maturity dates.

Annette Wszelaki, a professor and commercial vegetable extension specialist, advises researching before choosing a variety of sweet corn to grow. Consider factors such as kernel color, maturity date, ease of raising, quality, and storage life.

Planting varieties with varying maturity dates or succession planting the same variety every two weeks can stagger the harvest across the season.

However, the LaFevor and Barker families aim for a targeted season to have corn available for customers around the July 4th holiday. Ultimately, regardless of the variety you choose, fresh, delicious sweet corn is sure to be a highlight of your summer dining experience.

credit: Love The Garden

Factors to Consider When Choosing Sweet Corn Varieties

Choosing the perfect sweet corn variety is multi-faceted, with factors beyond color, flavor, and maturity date to consider. An important consideration is whether to opt for genetically modified or non-GMO varieties.

GMO sweet corn has been genetically engineered to aid with weed and pest management, with some varieties allowing the herbicide glyphosate to be sprayed on them.

Additionally, Bt corn varieties have been designed to reduce the number of insecticide sprays needed for pests such as corn earworm and European corn borer.

With safety as a top priority, it is worth noting that the protein produced by Bt is specific to these pests and is safe for human consumption.

Apart from genetic considerations, sweet corn texture, sugar content, and growing ease also depend on the variety. Normal sugary varieties have the lowest sugar content and are best eaten soon after harvest.

Sugar-enhanced varieties have a higher sugar content and will maintain their creamy texture for longer. Super sweet varieties, while much sweeter than normal sugary and sugar-enhanced varieties, can be less tender and harder to grow.

Producers must isolate different sweet corn varieties from one another to prevent cross-pollination, which can diminish the quality of corn.

For the best flavor, sweet corn should be eaten as soon as possible after harvesting, as the sugars begin to convert to starches soon after picking. If storing the corn, it is best to leave it in the husk and refrigerate it.

If the corn has been husked, it should be placed in a plastic bag and stored in the refrigerator. Corn blanched and removed from the cob can be frozen for six months to a year.

Regardless of the chosen variety, the ultimate consideration should be its taste and customer appeal.

credit: Gardening Know How

The Benefits of Raising Sweet Corn

As an expert on the cultivation of sweet corn, there is more to consider when selecting a variety for organic farming.

Not only must the grower adhere to the prohibition of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for at least three years before planting, but they must also obtain certification.

Moreover, the distance between the organic and non-organic corn must be 300 feet to avoid cross-pollination. It can be challenging for organic growers to effectively manage fertilizer, insect, and weed control.

While certified organic corn typically fetches a higher price in the market, it may not appear as flawless as conventional corn due to high insect pressure.

According to Bowman, certified organic seed must be used to meet certified organic standards.

Although farmer’s cooperatives do not usually sell certified organic seed in large quantities, small packages can be found off the rack. Some growers choose not to pursue certified organic status but still adhere to organic values in their farming practices.

Consumers seeking the perfect ear of corn should look for an ear with a robust green husk that fills their hand when held. The quality of the ear can be assessed by opening the husk and ensuring that the kernels are fully developed and pollinated.

Ultimately, growing sweet corn can be rewarding, offering opportunities to develop valuable skills for children, such as handling money, building self-confidence, customer service, and advertising.

It also provides the satisfaction of sharing a delicious treat with others. Regardless of the variety selected, it is crucial to consider the necessary criteria to ensure optimal growth, appearance, and taste.

Ways to Cook Sweet Corn

Cooking sweet corn is a simple pleasure many people enjoy, and there are many ways to prepare it beyond just boiling. Whether you prefer grilling, roasting, or microwaving, there is a method that will suit your needs.

Boiling is a tried and true method that requires filling a large pot with water and adding sugar but avoiding salt as it can toughen the corn.

Grilling offers the option of cooking the corn in the husk or shucked, and either way, brushing the kernels with olive oil and adding seasoning will bring out its natural flavors.

Oven-roasting is perfect for cooking many ears of corn, and it can be done either in the husk or shucked by brushing with oil or melted butter and seasoning before sealing in foil. Microwaving is a quick method for cooking 1 to 3 ears of corn.

It involves placing unshucked ears into the microwave for 5 minutes per ear or wrapping shucked corn in a moist paper towel before microwaving.

While eating corn off the cob is a classic way to enjoy it, there are many other ways to use it in dips, salsas, salads, and other dishes.

credit: Epicurious

One delicious recipe is elotes, which involves grilling corn and coating it with mayonnaise, sour cream, Cotija cheese, chili powder, fresh cilantro, and minced garlic. Sprinkle with extra cheese, chili powder, and lime juice for flavor.

Whether cooking for yourself or guests, sweet corn is a versatile and delightful ingredient that can enhance any meal.

source https://harvestsavvy.com/the-journey-of-sweet-corn/

Creating a Multi-Feathered Flock: Tips for Mixing Birds of Different Feathers in Your Backyard Coop

When it comes to avian additions to your backyard, the first thought for many is chickens, and rightfully so.

However, ducks may also be an enticing option. These feathered friends can both provide enjoyment and benefits as backyard companions. Choosing the right fit for you will depend on various factors, but the possibility of keeping both is not to be dismissed.

Perhaps you’ve been honing your chicken-keeping skills for quite some time now, mastering the basics of caring for them.

You’ve become a seasoned pro at recognizing when one of your feathered friends feels off, intervening during a dispute, and handling a stubborn broody hen.

The clucking of your chooks is a familiar melody to your ears, and you can even differentiate between which hen laid which egg! However, your curiosity is piqued by the idea of expanding your backyard bird repertoire.

You’ve spotted other feathered fowl mingling with chickens in your town and even seen some peculiar-looking creatures at your neighbor’s house that don’t quite resemble chickens or ducks.

Could you add other feathered friends, such as Guinea Fowls, Turkeys, or Geese, to your chicken coop? This is a thought that has been lingering in your mind…

It’s essential to consider some fundamental points for each poultry species when contemplating adding backyard birds to your flock.

Keeping chickens, ducks, or both has advantages and exploring the possibility of different feathered friends can lead to exciting new adventures in your backyard.

Mixing Birds of Different Feathers in Your Backyard Coop?

As an expert on backyard chicken coops, I can assure you that birds of different feathers can indeed coexist peacefully. The Harvest Savvy’s Learning Centre proves that mixing chicken with ducks and Guinea Fowl is feasible.

And why stop there? You could even introduce gobbling turkeys and honking geese to your feathered family with a few adjustments and some patience. Don’t forget those hardworking guinea fowl – they’d also make great additions!

Of course, there will always be differences of opinion and minor conflicts between the birds. Still, with proper planning and arrangement, housing a variety of poultry and waterfowl together is more than possible.

Imagine the delightful sight of chickens and ducks mingling together, turkeys proudly strutting, guinea fowl marching about, and geese honking nearby. Even backyard chicken keepers boast about their mixed flocks of poultry coexisting harmoniously.

While it may require some effort initially, the result will be a vibrant and diverse feathered ensemble that is a joy to behold.

Credit: hobbyfarms

Creating the Perfect Multi-Feathered Flock

As a seasoned authority on backyard chicken coops, I can attest that providing ample space is the key to a thriving multi-feathered flock environment.

Allowing for adequate space ensures that each poultry species can move freely without encroaching on another’s personal space, and it also allows for a quick getaway during minor disagreements.

Remember, more space equals a merrier mixed flock! Backyard chicken keepers recommend waiting until each species is fully feathered and outdoor coop-ready before introducing them to a mixed flock.

This typically occurs between six to eight weeks old, a critical stage where the birds are old enough to withstand outdoor elements and young enough to adjust to the integration process easily.

For a harmonious and happy flock, allowing them to free range is best. However, if you can’t manage that, provide a large run area to keep them engaged.

Ultimately, the key to a thriving multi-feathered flock is prioritizing their well-being and creating a spacious and enriching environment.

Tips for Keeping a Mixed Flock of Birds of Different Feathers

As a proud keeper of a diverse flock of feathered friends, patience and flexibility are paramount to harmonious and egg-ceptional coexistence.

The rewards of watching your geese, ducks, and turkeys coo and cluck away in blissful unison as their mischievous peers flutter by without care are simply delightful.

Time is your ally in fostering a peaceful coexistence; observing and supervising your flock as they interact daily will help them blend into a unified and joyous collective.

Remember to respect each bird’s distinct needs and personalities, as well as the unique temperaments of each species.

Creating a mixed poultry flock can be a fun and exciting experience, but it’s essential to consider each species’ various needs and characteristics. Chickens are a social bunch and get along well with all other types of poultry, making them a great addition to any mixed flock.

However, when brooding chicks, ducks, and geese together, separating the waterfowl from the chicks is essential to avoid unnecessary stress. As waterfowl grow, geese grow larger and may trample their smaller duckling siblings.

Waterfowl can tolerate colder temperatures better than chickens, turkeys, and guineas, but they tend to splash water, leading to chilly land-loving birds. Turkeys are prone to contracting Black Head disease, which can be fatal, and young turkeys are most susceptible to it.

Guineas are smaller than other baby poultry and require extra security measures from day one. Chickens, turkeys, and guinea fowl tend to gather together to host a nightly roosting retreat, while ducks and geese prefer sleeping on the floor of the coop or outside under the stars.

Mixing waterfowl with non-water-loving birds will require more frequent coop and run area cleaning. Both male and female birds can become disruptive and antagonistic during the breeding season, so it’s essential to be cautious and observant.

Geese tend to be managers-in-training, protecting from predators, while guinea fowl are known as “Coop Clowns,” playing pranks on their siblings. With patience and time, a mix of multi-feathered poultry can provide a variety that spices up one’s life.

While becoming a chicken parent is easy, deciding which breeds are most suitable for a mixed flock can be challenging.

Allowing them to roam and range freely will elevate their well-being and happiness. Lastly, be flexible in your approach, willing to make minor tweaks and adjustments to your coop and run area to cater to your feathered friends’ requirements.

Credit: thehappychickencoop

Garden Benefits of Ducks and Chickens

Ducks and chickens can offer unique benefits for those seeking feathered companions to work in their gardens. While ducks make quick work of pesky slugs and grasshoppers, chickens are fierce defenders against ticks and Japanese beetles.

Additionally, ducks provide an excellent source of fertilizer for your garden, as their manure can be directly applied without fear of burning plants. Chicken manure, although still valuable, requires composting for six months to a year before it can be safely used.

Both birds contribute to gardens, but it’s essential to consider the potential damage that chickens may cause depending on what you’re growing. While ducks can sometimes crush tiny seedlings with their flat feet, they are generally harmless to mature plants.

Chickens, conversely, are notorious for scratching and dust bathing and may need to be kept away from your prized tomatoes.

However, chickens shine in their ability to aerate compost piles and clean up gardens at the end of the season, ridding the soil of unwanted scraps and seeds.

Revel in the Delicious World of Eggs

When it comes to eggs, most of us think of chickens as the primary source. However, ducks are also exceptional egg providers, with some breeds surpassing their chicken counterparts.

Not only are duck eggs highly nutritious, but they are also better for baking than chicken eggs. They are known to keep longer and can be eaten by many with egg allergies, thanks to their unique protein makeup.

The size, richness, and creaminess of duck eggs are also unmatched by chicken eggs. Selling duck eggs is a smart business move, as they command a higher price in the market.

To truly indulge in the world of eggs, why not keep both ducks and chickens and reap the benefits of each? Of course, the joy of keeping birds is sometimes simply about the companionship they offer.

Both ducks and chickens possess distinct personalities and quirky behavioral traits that make them ideal pets. With proper handling, they can be extremely friendly and entertaining to observe.

Before deciding which bird to bring home, it is essential to understand their individual needs and requirements. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and provide them with the best possible care.

Discover Everything You Need to Know About Incubating Chicken Eggs

Habitat Considerations for Ducks and Chickens

Habitat plays a crucial role in determining whether to keep chickens or ducks. One of the primary factors to consider is the amount of space available for the birds to move around.

While chickens can acclimate well to being penned in smaller areas, ducks prefer to have some degree of freedom. If free-ranging is not feasible, chickens are the better option. However, ducks can be a viable option if there is even a small yard for birds to forage in.

Ducks are fond of green grass and dandelion leaves and will appreciate any natural area to explore. Chickens can happily pass their time digging and scratching in the dirt.

It’s worth noting that if you have space for free-ranging, ducks tend to travel farther than chickens. If you live in an area surrounded by woodland or open fields, your ducks will enjoy exploring their surroundings.

However, fencing may be necessary if you have close neighbors who don’t share your fondness for feathered friends.

Nevertheless, chickens and ducks can be trained to return home at the end of the day and will appreciate having small structures or brushy areas to rest and hide from extreme weather conditions.

With the proper training and attention, chickens and ducks can thrive in their environment.

Credit: thehappychickencoop

A Comparison of Health and Behavior between Ducks and Chickens

When it comes to health and behavior, ducks have a lot of advantages over chickens. These resilient birds are typically more disease-resistant and hardy than their chicken counterparts, which are often susceptible to various illnesses, from mites to internal parasites to crop issues.

They are also prone to aggression among their flock and are likelier to become egg-bound or experience other problems.

On the other hand, ducks are generally healthier and less fragile, with fewer health problems and more disease resistance. While they’re not entirely immune to such issues, they tend to fare better than chickens overall.

However, it’s still essential to maintain healthy ratios of males in your flock, regardless of species, to prevent mating injuries.

Both ducks and chickens have a pecking order, but chickens tend to be more aggressive and more prone to infighting, which can result in injuries. Roosters have sharp spurs, beaks, and long toenails, which can cause harm.

In comparison, duck squabbles are usually harmless and look more like friendly neck wrestling matches.

Finally, while it’s not unheard of for chickens to engage in cannibalism, ducks are generally not known for such behavior. In short, if you want a healthy and peaceful flock, ducks may be the way to go.

Read more about Expert Advice on How to Protect Yourself and Your Flock from Illness

Feeding and Nutrition for Your Flock of Different Feathered Friends

As a keeper of a diverse flock, one of the delights of your feathered friends is their unique and vibrant beauty. However, this raises the question of adequately nourishing each species in your care.

Fortunately, commercially made feeds formulated specifically for your flamboyant flock is available, making feeding them a breeze.

Ducks and chickens are not vastly different; both can thrive on a combination of generic pelleted feed, fresh veggies, dried bugs, and various kitchen scraps. While their nutritional needs differ slightly, feed stores carry specialized formulated food for both birds.

If housed together, communal feed pellets will suffice. The major disparity in feeding between ducks and chickens is in the water.

While chickens require clean, accessible water, ducks need water deep enough to submerge their beaks to clean their nostrils and nasal passages.

Ducks also dirty their water faster than chickens, necessitating more frequent changes. Generally, all poultry can consume chicken or grower feed until they are fully feathered and mature enough to lay eggs, so switching to layer crumbles is recommended.

Credit: thehappychickencoop

However, adequate free-range time is the best way to ensure they receive a nutritious diet. They will instinctively forage and explore, consuming a diet that suits their species-specific needs.

Additionally, feeding them daily meal leftovers is a great way to give them a treat and avoid food waste.

Read about Top 14 Herbs To Grow For Your Flock

Housing and Coop Requirements for Ducks and Chickens Living Together

As you consider keeping both ducks and chickens together, it’s essential to know that they have different needs when it comes to housing. Chickens are known to roost at night and require well-ventilated, draft-free coops with perches.

On the other hand, ducks are ground sleepers, except the Muscovy breed, and don’t typically seek cover or bedding. However, ducks still need a three-sided shelter with a roof where they can take refuge from the elements if they choose to.

Nesting boxes are a must-have for chickens, whereas ducks lay their eggs wherever they are or in a communal nest if available. If you provide them with straw bedding, you may have to dig around to find their hidden eggs.

It’s also worth noting that ducks require more frequent cleaning, as their wet poop can create a stinky, mushy situation. They fling water around and then sit in it, making it crucial to have dry areas for chickens.

However, housing them together can somewhat reduce this issue, especially if you have more chickens than ducks. When accommodating them together, a small coop with perches for chickens and sufficient floor space for ducks is a great option.

Read more about Winter Care for Chickens!

A securely attached run with 24/7 access will give ducks the option of sleeping outside while keeping water in runs instead of the coop will cut down on the mess and humidity, which can negatively affect chickens in the winter.

Overall, with careful consideration of their differing needs, keeping both ducks and chickens together can be a delightful experience for both you and your feathered friends.

Credit: thehappychickencoop

Considerations when Choosing Between Chicken and Duck Breeds

If you’re thinking about keeping backyard birds, whether it’s for egg production or as charming companions, it’s essential to understand the nuances of different breeds.

While neither ducks nor chickens are typically disruptive, understanding their vocal tendencies is critical. Male ducks, for instance, are the quietest backyard birds, emitting only soft rasps. Meanwhile, in chickens, noise levels can be more difficult to control.

Limiting the number of roosters in your flock can help mitigate their tendency to crow continuously. However, both ducks and chickens will communicate frequently, with female ducks being slightly louder on average.

It’s worth noting that certain breeds are also more suited for specific purposes than others. For example, some chickens are better suited for cold temperatures or are more sociable, while certain duck breeds lay eggs more frequently.

Ultimately, chickens and ducks are endearing, easy-to-keep creatures that provide a rewarding source of fresh eggs.

Credit: thehappychickencoop

Providing Water for Ducks: Essential or Optional?

As a ducks lover, you may wonder if you need a pond to keep them happy. The answer is no! While they adore water, it doesn’t have to be a large body of water. Even a small kiddie pool or meandering creek in your backyard will do the trick.

However, I recommend providing water deep enough for them to float in, as nothing is more delightful than a duck paddling around in a fresh pool. While swimming is an excellent exercise for ducks, it’s not essential for their growth and development.

Pools and ponds can become dirty quickly and harm ducks if not cleaned regularly. Instead, a drip-type watering system and wire floors will keep them clean and healthy. Just remember to provide fresh drinking water regularly, as it’s essential for their overall well-being.

source https://harvestsavvy.com/creating-a-multi-feathered-flock/

Unleash the Potential of Your Farm with Handcrafted Fence Posts

As you embark on your next fencing project, why not consider the beauty and practicality of harvesting your fence posts from the trees on your farm?

As you likely know, a fence post is a sturdy column of wood or metal driven into the ground to support the boards, wires, or other materials that make up a fence.

Fences, and the trusty fence posts that support them, are the essential infrastructure on farms, whether you’re keeping livestock contained, demarcating property boundaries, or simply safeguarding your crops from wild critters.

But let’s delve a bit deeper into the specifics of these fence posts. When I constructed the pastures for my livestock, I used wooden posts specially purchased for the project. Yet, if you have a farm, many trees could be transformed into sturdy fence posts.

Imagine the satisfaction of utilizing the trees that dot your landscape to build the infrastructure that will keep your property safe and secure for years.

For instance, the deer fence surrounding my beloved orchard is supported by sturdy 4x4s made from the trees on my land. Not only do these wooden posts serve their functional purpose, but they also add a rustic charm to the landscape.

Plus, harvesting your fence posts is a sustainable choice that reduces your reliance on external sources and showcases the natural resources of your farm.

So, the next time you need fence posts for a project, take a moment to consider the beauty and practicality of harvesting your own from the trees on your farm.

It’s a choice that is both environmentally conscious and aesthetically pleasing, and it will give you a deep sense of pride in utilizing your land’s resources.

Benefits of Crafting Your Own Fence Posts from Farm Trees

As you embark on your next fencing project and need reliable posts, consider this: wooden fence posts, while commonly purchased pre-made, are nothing extraordinary.

They are, at their core, merely lengthy sections of wood with a diameter of several inches. True, some are treated to improve their longevity, but fundamentally, they are the basic building blocks of the humble fence.

Rather than expending your resources on store-bought posts, why not tap into the bounty of your land? With the right tools, skills, and patience, you can craft beautiful fence posts that will stand the test of time.

If your farm happens to be home to trees like the robust Black Locust or naturally rot-resistant Cedar, you’re in luck–they yield ideal wood for posts.

Or, perhaps you possess the proficiency and equipment required to safely fell trees of any size, making the process even simpler.

And if you have access to a sawmill, you can create fence posts that match your exact specifications in size and uniformity.

The benefits of producing your fence posts are numerous–from a sense of satisfaction from self-sufficiency to the economic benefits of saving on costs. So next time you need fence posts, consider the trees on your property as a source of potential riches.

credit: Making Manzanita

Making Simple Fence Posts from Fallen Trees

Sometimes the best things in life are the simplest. Instead of investing in expensive fence posts for your next project, why not consider a more straightforward approach?

Take inspiration from a winter storm that blew down trees on my farm, giving me the perfect opportunity to repurpose a few small pine and cedar trees into fence posts.

With pruning loppers, I removed the smaller branches, and with an electric chainsaw, I cut the logs into suitable lengths for my project. The bark remained intact, adding a rustic touch to my grape trellis in the orchard.

While I knew untreated pine wood would not last very long in the ground, I was content that the post was free, cleaned up debris, and could be easily replaced.

The possibilities are endless when making your fence posts from the trees on your farm. Whether you utilize a sawmill to create uniform posts or take a more rustic approach with windblown trees, you can reap the benefits of a valuable resource while saving money.

You can unleash your farm’s potential and create beautiful, functional fence posts for years with creativity and the right tools.

credit: HONEY ROCK DAWN

Top Tree Species for Fence Posts

The art of fencing has evolved over the centuries, yet wooden fences remain a popular choice in the eastern regions of the United States.

While the chestnut trees that once provided fencing material have disappeared, a diverse range of wood species, including cedar, locust, redwood, oak, spruce, pine, and fir, now serve as fence posts.

The choice of wood species ultimately depends on availability, cost, ease of handling, strength, and durability.

Cedar is a standout option due to its aesthetic appeal, as it is less prone to warping, cupping, and checking than other woods. It is also a natural insect repellent, thanks to its unappealing oils and acids to termites.

Moreover, it can age to a charming silver-gray tone, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the beauty of natural wood.

Locust, with its remarkable durability, is a popular choice for farm and ranch fencing, particularly for horse paddocks and livestock pens.

Its strength and stiffness make it highly shock-resistant and ideal for split rail fences, and it can last for over 75 years without the need for staining or painting.

White oak is another reliable option, as it is resistant to insect infestation and wood rot. It is also cost-effective and can last for 10 to 15 years, making it a good choice for those looking for an economical yet durable fencing option.

Whitewoods such as fir, spruce, and pine are other viable options for fence posts. Douglas fir and yellow pine are particularly popular in the Pacific Northwest and southeastern/Gulf coastal regions.

These woods can be cut and aged on-site or purchased from sawmills or garden centers. When purchasing pre-treated posts, it’s essential to ensure they are certified to withstand termites and wood rot.

With these options available, there’s no need to compromise on strength, durability, or aesthetic appeal when selecting the “best” fence post for your needs.

Whether you’re enclosing livestock, creating a windbreak, or enhancing your landscape, the right choice of wood can provide a lasting and beautiful fencing solution.

credit: ipewoods

How to Fell a Pine Tree and Prepare it for Fence Post Conversion

The versatile pine tree can be transformed into sturdy fence posts as soon as it’s cut down, provided you follow some basic guidelines.

Avoid using the younger wood near the tree’s top for fencing, as the wood grain is too soft for nails to hold. Any section of the tree with a continuous diameter of six inches is perfect for creating fence posts.

In contrast, larger diameters can be cut differently to produce multiple posts from one log. Felling a tree requires some skill and preparation, beginning with a flat cut made one-third of the way through the tree’s base on the leaning side.

The next step is to cut down toward the flat cut at an angle of 70 to 90 degrees, forming a notch in the tree. After walking to the back of the tree, make a slight downward cut three inches above the apex of the notch, listening and watching for the tree to start falling.

Once the tree is on the ground, remove all protruding limbs, cutting as close to the trunk as possible. Cut the main trunk or leader of the tree into lengths of six to eight feet to make fence posts, and use the hammer’s sharp end to peel off the bark.

Lay the fence posts horizontally across two parallel railroad ties, spaced about five feet apart, and allow them to season for a few months before putting them to use.

source https://harvestsavvy.com/handcrafted-fence-posts-for-farm/

When Cows Fly: Uncovering the Tragic Story of an Indian Pensioner’s Death

Tragedy struck in Alwar, Rajasthan, India when an 82-year-old man named Shivdayal Sharma lost his life in a freak accident involving a cow and a high-speed train.

As Sharma was relieving himself on the railway tracks, a Vande Bharat express train collided with a group of cows that had wandered onto the line, causing one of the cows to be flung 30 meters into the air.

Unfortunately, this cow struck Sharma with such force that he died instantly.

While another man who was also relieving himself nearby managed to narrowly escape being hit by the flying animal, Sharma was not so fortunate.

The Vande Bharat express trains can reach speeds of up to 160kph, making it difficult to avoid such accidents.

Vande Bharat trains, which run at semi-high speeds, have encountered livestock on various routes, with the Mumbai-Gujarat section reporting the most incidents.

It is a known issue along the Mumbai-Gujarat route, with reports of many run-ins with cattle.

The tragedy has led to calls for better regulation and safety measures along the train route.

Measures such as garbage and vegetation removal have begun to address the problem, but more is needed to prevent further tragedies.

The Western Railways has decided to put metal fencing along the 620km-long Mumbai-Ahmedabad trunk route to prevent animals from straying onto the tracks and causing accidents.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has acknowledged that collisions with cattle on the tracks are unavoidable and has kept this in mind while designing the semi-high-speed Vande Bharat trains.

However, the rising number of accidents involving cows and trains in India indicates that more needs to be done to protect both animals and humans.

Read more about The Tragic Consequences of Keeping Chickens as Pets

source https://harvestsavvy.com/man-killed-by-cow/

Urban Farming: A Sustainable and Innovative Approach to Food Production

As an expert in food production, I have witnessed firsthand the sheer joy and satisfaction of interacting intimately with growing and cultivating our food.

From the nostalgic memories of raising chickens in our backyard during my childhood to the bountiful herb window box that brought a glimmer of hope and happiness amidst the pandemic lockdown, the act of producing food has always been a part of my family’s lifestyle.

And now, a burgeoning movement is taking shape within our society, one that recognizes and embraces the many benefits of urban farming.

With traditional farming methods increasingly challenged by various environmental and logistical factors, urban farming is emerging as a practical and sustainable alternative that offers many opportunities.

When we envision farming, our minds often conjure images of vast rural landscapes with endless fields stretching as far as the eye can see. While that may be the predominant image, it is not the only way.

Urban farming, with its innovative approaches and cutting-edge techniques, is fast becoming a viable and attractive option for food production, especially in and around cities.

With its potential to mitigate the adverse effects of traditional farming, urban farming represents a new chapter in the story of food production, one that promises to yield a rich and abundant harvest for all.

Urban Farming: A Revolutionary Approach to Food Production

As an esteemed expert in urban farming, I can attest to the multifaceted nature of this innovative approach to food production.

It encompasses various techniques, from cultivating plants in unlikely spaces such as disused railway arches to keeping livestock in urban backyards.

Urban farming represents a revolution in how we think about food, enabling people to grow fresh produce in their homes and communities.

Consider, for instance, the example of a company in Berlin that grows herbs and salad leaves right inside supermarkets and restaurants, eliminating the need for food to travel long distances.

Or the beekeepers in London who utilize the rooftops of buildings to produce hyper-local honey tailored to the specific postcodes in which it is sold. These are just a few of the many examples of the myriad benefits that urban farming can offer.

Read more about Buzzing into Urban Beekeeping: A Beginner’s Guide

While it is true that urban farming comes with its own challenges, its advantages are significant and can contribute to making our food systems more sustainable.

A 2007 report by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) for the UN concluded that urban farming could complement rural agriculture, helping improve national food systems’ efficiency.

Moreover, traditional rural farms are facing mounting pressure to meet the ever-increasing demands for food. As a result, the intensification of farming methods can lead to soil degradation, reducing the nutrient value of soils and creating downstream problems.

This calls into question the need for more integrated planning incorporating food production space into urban areas. Doing so can free up rural areas for regenerative agroecology and reduce transportation distances from food to table.

Integrating urban farming spaces into our cities can also provide valuable opportunities for people to learn about and interact with food production.

This can be a catalyst for de-centralizing food production and improving biodiversity, which can ultimately help mitigate climate change’s impacts.

By reducing our reliance on rural farms, we can allow these areas to recover and provide more space for the natural absorption of heavy rainfalls, thus reducing the potential for flooding in downstream urban areas.

In short, urban farming is a vital tool that can help us build a more sustainable and resilient food system for ourselves and the planet.

Photo: wikipedia

Benefits of Urban Farming Beyond Food Production

As an expert in the field of urban farming, I can attest to the multifaceted nature of this innovative approach to food production. With the world’s population expected to be two-thirds urban by 2050, growing food closer to where it will be consumed makes sense.

The possibilities for urban agriculture are endless. Researchers estimate that if cities worldwide took full advantage of these opportunities, we could produce up to 180 million metric tons of food annually from urban farms alone.

While it is unlikely that any city will sustain itself ultimately, urban farming has many benefits, including adding greenery to urban landscapes, reducing food waste, and creating jobs.

One significant advantage of growing food locally is the reduction of food miles. Although it’s an admirable goal, it’s important to note that transportation accounts for a small percentage of carbon emissions from our food.

Food grown within a city may not necessarily have a smaller carbon footprint than food transported elsewhere.

Nevertheless, indoor urban farming has increased food security. High-tech indoor growing systems allow us to produce fresh food year-round without relying on weather conditions, which is critical as climate change brings more extreme weather events.

Despite the advantages, indoor farming comes with challenges, including the cost of electricity to power artificial lighting and the high price of land. The good news is that technology can help keep environmental footprints to a minimum.

For example, indoor farms often use pink LEDs that only emit the red and blue wavelengths of light that plants need to stimulate growth, using less energy.

photo: afn

Additionally, integrating urban farming into our cities can provide valuable opportunities for people to learn about and interact with food production, which can ultimately help mitigate climate change’s impacts.

By reducing our reliance on rural farms, we can allow these areas to recover and provide more space for the natural absorption of heavy rainfall, thus reducing the potential for flooding in downstream urban areas.

In short, urban farming is a vital tool to help us build a more sustainable and resilient food system for ourselves and the planet.

Learn more about Apartment Gardening 101: How to Grow Plants in Your Tiny Space

Creative Re-use of Urban Spaces for Food Production

As we navigate the challenges of our rapidly evolving world, it has become increasingly apparent that food diversity and resilience are crucial elements to ensure the stability of our food supply.

The recent engagement sessions held by the Singapore Food Agency focused on exploring innovative new models for urban farming, with a strong emphasis on the creative reuse of urban spaces.

The potential for unused urban spaces, such as vacant retail and commercial spaces, public spaces, residential gardens and terraces, and even rooftops, to be transformed into climatically-controlled vertical farms or community gardens is a compelling concept that has gained significant traction.

With many urban areas facing the challenge of balancing environmental sustainability with economic growth, the idea of urban farming offers a unique solution that has the potential to transform the urbanscape and positively impact the health and well-being of communities.

In Singapore, community farming has gained significant momentum, with initiatives like Edible Garden City and the Habitat Collective campaign leading the way.

Photo: worldlandscapearchitect

By aligning consumers with food production, urban farming has the potential to bring people together, fostering a sense of community and well-being.

Additionally, the physical activity associated with tending to plants and greenery offers measurable health benefits. At the same time, a heightened knowledge of healthy eating has the potential to address major health issues such as diabetes and obesity.

Indeed, urban farming offers a unique opportunity to build a more sustainable, resilient, and connected future. By creatively re-purposing urban spaces, we can build a more diverse and robust food supply that nourishes our bodies and strengthens our communities.

As we look to the future, the potential of urban farming to transform our cities and the way we live and eat is a concept that is impossible to ignore.

Maximizing small spaces for urban gardening

Urban gardening may be the perfect antidote to the concrete jungle blues. Living in the city doesn’t have to mean sacrificing access to fresh, homegrown produce. With ingenuity and creativity, urban spaces can transform into thriving gardens that yield delicious fruits and vegetables.

One excellent option for urban gardening is the urban food forest. Even if you have just a 15 by 15-foot backyard, you can create a verdant oasis yielding abundant fresh, juicy fruit.

Construct raised planters around your fence line, filling them with fruit trees suited to your growing zone. Choose a mix of herbs and ground covers that thrive in partial to full shade to plant around the trees.

It’s wise to plant more than you need, allowing the most vigorous plants to flourish and pruning back those that don’t thrive.

If space is at a premium, movable planters may be the perfect solution. These can be constructed from sturdy wood with pallet-style bottoms, making them easy to move with a fork.

Alternatively, use large horse troughs on a dolly-type setup for mobility. Permanent tree spots can also be created by removing a square of concrete from the ground, allowing for the planting of fruit trees, berries, and herbs.

Remove thin slices of concrete along your stoop or building front to allow climbing plants to grow and flourish.

Community gardens or allotment plots offer another avenue for urban gardening. Instead of building walls around the plot, use the space to create a series of permabeds with chip mulch paths, prioritizing square footage for plants rather than abiotic materials like stone or brick walls.

Rooftops and balconies provide ample opportunities for growing food in the city. Custom-boxed beds and large planters filled with herbs and vegetables can thrive with the proper waterproof liners.

And don’t forget windowsills and window boxes! These provide an ideal environment for growing fresh herbs and small plants.

Photo: Celebrate Urban Birds

9 Ways to Incorporate Edible Planting into the Urban Landscape

The urban landscape has long been viewed as a sterile environment, reliant on farmland to supply fresh produce. However, the rapid expansion of cities has encroached on productive land, resulting in more significant strain on the environment to support large populations.

As a result, there is a growing need to integrate food production into urban areas, providing greater personal food security and offering more nutritious and organic options.

To this end, we explore nine innovative ways to incorporate edible planting into the urban landscape, ranging from small-scale residential solutions to large-scale urban farming.

These include vertical gardens, hydroponics, greenhouses, roof gardens, edible urban greenery, creepers or vines, urban fruit trees, community urban food gardens, and the productive landscape.

By implementing these solutions, cities can increase their food security and create green, productive landscapes that are part of the city.

For instance, vertical gardens have become a new landscape trend, allowing beautiful green walls to sprout on hard urban surfaces.

Photo: gardenstead

Hydroponics allows plants to grow without soil, making it ideal for producing a fast yield of intensely flavored and nutritious vegetables that can compete with industrial-scale farming.

Meanwhile, greenhouses create internal micro-climates that can be controlled to provide a means to grow food all year round.

Roof gardens are another excellent solution, converting disused roof spaces into productive green roofs that can reduce building energy costs, clean stormwater, and provide space for urban agriculture.

Creepers or vines can provide edible support for urban structures such as pergolas or trellises, while urban fruit trees provide both shade and nutritionally rich produce.

On the other hand, community urban food gardens create a space for urban communities to grow their organic food supply, interact with one another, and foster positive urban communities.

Finally, the productive landscape approach integrates productive agriculture into public spaces, creating edible landscapes that are part of the city.

It is clear that cities must become self-sustaining and start by greening their way to food security. By embracing edible planting schemes, cities can reverse the traditional city core vs. farmland model and reduce their reliance on strained rural land to support populations.

It is time to redefine the relationship between urban and natural fabrics and create a more sustainable, productive, green future.

In conclusion, urban gardening is a fantastic way to ensure a steady supply of fresh, nutritious produce, even in the city’s heart. With creativity and know-how, anyone can transform even the smallest space into a thriving garden that yields a bountiful harvest.

So why wait? Get creative, get planting, and enjoy the fruits of your labor today!

source https://harvestsavvy.com/urban-farming-for-food-production/

Freeze Concentration: A Game-Changer for Maple Syrup Makers

Are you tired of spending long, laborious hours boiling down your maple sap to make syrup? Have you ever considered using the power of freezing to expedite the process?

As the temperatures drop and the sap in your buckets freezes overnight, you might overlook a valuable shortcut.

Instead of discarding the frozen chunks, you could use them to your advantage and significantly reduce the time spent boiling down the sap.

Freeze concentration is not a new concept in the world of sugaring. Early sugarmakers utilized it to simplify the process due to the lack of heavy-duty tools.

Nowadays, large-scale sugarmakers have incorporated this technique into their operations to save time and increase efficiency. With our busy schedules, finding the time to boil sap after a long day of work can be difficult.

By freezing the sap beforehand, you can avoid this time-consuming process and boil the concentrated sap at your convenience.

As a passionate and experienced maple syrup producer, I have found that freezing and melting the sap before boiling can make all the difference. My family and I love tapping our single silver maple tree and turning the sap into delicious syrup.

However, the traditional boiling process can be arduous and time-consuming. By using freeze concentration, we have streamlined the process and reduced the workload.

In this article, I will share the hows and whys of freezing sap with you and provide an account of my unscientific freeze experiment.

Whether you are a seasoned sugarmaker or just starting, this technique is worth considering to save time and effort in the syrup-making process.

Harmonizing with Nature

To create the perfect batch of maple syrup, working in harmony with nature is essential. The optimal conditions for maple sap to flow are when temperatures drop below freezing at night and rise above freezing during the day.

Indigenous communities have long understood this natural cycle and have developed a technique to harness it to their advantage during the peak of the maple run.

The process is simple yet effective. After tapping and collecting sap in buckets, all that is required is to freeze and let it thaw. You can effortlessly mimic nature’s process by banking snow around a bucket or placing it in a chest freezer overnight.

Allowing the sap to freeze and thaw separates the sugar from the water, resulting in a more concentrated and flavorful syrup.

The first batch of thawed sap contains most sugar, while the remaining ice contains very little. This technique can produce syrup with higher sugar content, reducing the time and effort required to boil the sap down.

By embracing nature’s rhythms and working in harmony with them, you can easily create the perfect batch of maple syrup.

With the simple yet effective technique of freezing and thawing sap, you can produce a delicious syrup that captures the essence of the natural world around you.

Photo: Hobby Farms

Maximizing Maple Syrup Production with the Freeze-and-Melt Method

In 2015, I embarked on an experiment to test the effectiveness of the freeze-and-melt method for concentrating maple sap into syrup.

With a meager 20 gallons of sap gathered that year, I filtered and froze it in five-gallon buckets, which I placed in the shade and banked with snow. The resulting ice chunks were melted to produce a yield of about 50-to-1.

Although my experiment was unscientific, it revealed that freezing could indeed concentrate the sap somewhat, and discarding the ice could lead to significant losses in syrup production.

The freeze-and-melt method, which mimics nature’s tendency to freeze sap at night and thaw it during the day, offers an energy-efficient way to concentrate sap.

Transferring the frozen sap to a draining bucket with many holes drilled in the bottom lets you easily separate the melted sap from the remaining ice.

After letting the sap sit at room temperature until the first third has drained, discard the remaining ice chunk and place the melted sap back in the freezer to repeat the freeze-melt cycle.

By doing this for two consecutive rounds, you can increase the sugar content of the sap from 1 to 3 percent to 5 to 16 percent, reducing the volume of liquid to a mere 20 percent of what you started with.

This means a much shorter boiling time and a jump start on the concentration process, retaining around 80 percent of the sugar.

While the freeze-and-melt method can effectively concentrate sap, boiling is still necessary to achieve the caramelized color and flavor we all love in maple syrup. Plus, the sap has to be heated up for bottling anyway.

Using a multi-stage freeze-thaw method can further enhance the concentration process as you pour off the liquid to boil after each melting round. You can easily use a wine corkscrew to screw into the frozen sap and lift it out of the bucket.

By working with nature and utilizing the freeze-and-melt method, you can maximize your maple syrup production and savor the sweet taste of nature’s bounty.

Photo: Hobby Farms

The Future of Freeze Concentration in Maple Syrup Production

As I shared my musings on feeding maple sap to bees, a couple of astute readers suggested a technique called freeze concentration, which involves separating the sugars from the water in maple sap without boiling it and causing digestive issues for bees.

At first, Mark was skeptical of this method, questioning whether I was defying the laws of physics. But I quickly clarified that freeze concentration is a natural way of extracting the sugars from the sap by freezing it and letting some liquid melt, resulting in a sweeter and more concentrated liquid.

Through one or two rounds of freezing and thawing, you can capture up to 90% of the sugars in maple sap in just 16.5% of the original volume. Simply leave the sap outside during freezing temperatures or put it in the freezer overnight if it’s warm out.

After freezing, allow the ice block to melt until about one-third of its bulk has thawed, which is where the valuable sugar portion is. Discard the ice and repeat the freeze-thaw cycle, retaining the first half of the melted liquid.

The resulting liquid will have a sugar concentration five to sixteen times stronger than the original sap. You’ll also have frozen sap water that can be turned into beautiful ice sculptures.

Photo: waldeneffect

Using freeze concentration to concentrate maple sap is an energy-efficient and practical alternative to traditional boiling methods, especially in a colder regions where temperatures regularly drop below freezing.

Additionally, it doesn’t produce excessive steam, which can clog up your kitchen. While it’s an excellent way to begin making maple syrup, you’ll still need to boil your sap concentrate to produce high-quality, flavored syrup, as heat is required to produce the distinctive taste, color, and aroma of maple syrup.

Furthermore, you’ll need to reduce the liquid enough to increase the sugar content to at least 66% to produce maple syrup, which would require many rounds of freeze-thaw cycles.

We’ll use our first batch of maple sap concentrate for our bees, but we’ll boil the second batch down into syrup on top of our wood stove.

Professional maple syrup producers have even developed a way to freeze the water in the sap as it flows through the lines into the sugar shack, allowing for large quantities of sap to be collected and held for later boiling.

While this process requires high upfront costs and setup, exploring it is still fascinating.

Using freeze concentration to extract sugar from maple sap is an ingenious way to leverage the power of nature’s natural cycles and minimize the time and resources required to produce maple syrup.

It’s an excellent method for hobbyists and those who want to produce maple syrup sustainably and efficiently.

Read more about The Magical and Healing Powers of Cleavers

source https://harvestsavvy.com/freeze-concentration-in-maple-syrup-production/

The Future of Fish Farming: Integrating Intelligent Technology for Sustainable Aquaculture

Fish farming has become increasingly popular in recent years, attracting a growing number of hobby farmers keen to dive into aquaculture. With surging demand for seafood, raising fish presents an attractive opportunity for those looking to tap into this lucrative market.

Interestingly, fish farming can be implemented in small spaces and requires minimal resources, making it a viable option for anyone with limited land or pond access.

Utilizing tanks or barrels to raise fish, farmers can benefit from the nutrient-rich waste generated, which can be used as fertilizer for other crops.

The versatility of fish farming is another significant factor driving its popularity, with a broad range of fish species, including shrimp, crawfish, and salmon, being raised on small and large-scale farms.

With intelligent fish farming devices now available, farming fish has never been more accessible.

These innovative devices offer a variety of functions, such as feeding, water quality monitoring, and parasite control, enabling farmers to obtain a clear and detailed view of their pond’s ecosystem.

With the help of intelligent fish-farming technology, hobby farms can have fish ready for sale within just six months. Despite the challenges of aquaculture engineering, mechanization, and environmental issues, the opportunities presented by fish farming are immense.

By pursuing ecological, facility, industrial, and intelligent development strategies, fish farming can thrive in the future.

While some breeding enterprises may be constrained by breeding technology or lack of suitable aquatic varieties, the potential for the industry remains vast.

In short, fish farming represents an exciting and innovative opportunity for farmers to diversify their offerings, meet the growing demand for seafood, and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

Read more about Underwater Farming – The Future of Agriculture?

Aquaculture: Meeting the Global Demands for Cheap Quality Protein

Aquaculture, farming aquatic organisms, has emerged as the fastest-growing food industry globally. With over half of the world’s fish production originating from aquaculture, the demand for seafood is set to increase with population growth and rising incomes.

With the annual growth rate of global fish consumption for food almost double the growth rate of the world population, it is no surprise that fish has become a central source of food, offering better quality cheap protein than livestock.

However, the industry faces many challenges, including marine pollution and a decline in employees engaged in aquaculture.

Consequently, policies and new technologies, such as AI, machine learning, and IoT, are being introduced to revolutionize traditional aquacultural practices and address these issues.

By incorporating emerging technologies, we can enhance the sustainability and efficiency of aquaculture to meet the global demands for cheap quality protein while protecting the environment.

Photo: Marius Dobilas/Shutterstock.com

Integrating Technology into Aquaculture for Smart Farming

The era of intelligent technology has revolutionized various industries, including aquaculture. By incorporating AI, machine learning, and autonomous machines, aquaculture can optimize operations and provide real-time data analysis to aid decision-making.

With intelligent technology integration, aquaculture can overcome structural and ecological challenges, which are expected to increase in the coming years.

Already, autonomous fish farms have emerged worldwide, with Norway establishing the first offshore submersible fish farm that utilizes automated technologies to farm salmon.

Such technologies have expanded to include robots that monitor fish behavior, clean and repair fish nets, and patrol underwater pens. Despite smart fish farms’ rapid development and extensive potential, various issues limit their progress.

Nonetheless, adopting intelligent technology in aquaculture offers an efficient, green, and innovative solution to optimize fishery resources and replace manual labor.

Photo: A Daily Odyssey

Underwater Drones and Intelligent Fish Farms: Advancements in Aquaculture Technology

Fish farming presents a unique challenge as we exist on land while the fish reside underwater.

However, recent advancements in technology have enabled us to dive straight into the pond or tank using underwater drones, allowing us to monitor the living conditions of our fish, track their eating patterns, and check oxygen levels.

In addition to these benefits, underwater drones can detect pH and pollutants, enabling farmers to proactively clean their ponds and protect their fish before any issues arise.

Intelligent fish farms offer an innovative solution to address the labor shortage, water pollution, and inefficiency problems traditional aquaculture faces.

These farms can be classified into four categories based on the culture environment: pond-type, land-based factory-type, cage-type, and intelligent marine ranches.

Pond-type smart fish farms leverage sensor technology to collect real-time water quality information, while unmanned aerial vehicles patrol the water’s surface to capture fish activities.

The land-based factory-type intelligent fish farm is equipped with automated recirculating aquaculture (RAS), enabling efficient water usage.

In contrast, cage-type intelligent fish farms utilize sensors to measure seawater quality and ocean current, while machine vision and sonar provide insights into fish movements and feeding behaviors.

Intelligent marine ranches rely on high-definition surface cameras and underwater robots to capture real-time video footage of the farm, enabling farmers to identify biological species, analyze behavior, and estimate biomass.

By incorporating digital and intelligent technology, fish farming can overcome the challenges of traditional aquaculture and deliver improved efficiency, sustainability, and profitability for farmers.

The Advancements of Aquaculture IoT and AI in Fish Farming

Aquaculture has come a long way since its inception, and recent technological advancements have evolved traditional IoT systems. A three-tier structure is used to integrate device, control, and data acquisition terminals.

Sensing equipment collects environmental data, monitors device working status, and captures video image information of the aquaculture.

Control equipment operates aerators, feeders, and pump valves, while data acquisition terminals transmit sensor data and receive control instructions through a wireless network.

However, for businesses with high real-time requirements, end-to-end millisecond-level low latency is necessary, and ordinary cloud computing models are not equipped to meet these standards.

Incorporating edge computing and 5G into the aquaculture IoT system enhances its standardization, stability, and usability. The amount of multidimensional data produced by fishery informatization is immense.

AI’s simulation of human thinking and intelligent behavior allows it to learn from the massive information provided by the IoT and big data. AI can analyze and judge problems and complete decision-making tasks, ensuring the accurate operation of the fish farm.

Photo: aquaculturemag

The Latest Innovations in Intelligent Fish Farming Technology

Revolutionizing fish farming with cutting-edge technology has led to intelligent fish farming system advancements.

Among these is the Water Environment Ecological Monitoring system, which utilizes advanced sensors and cameras carried by unmanned ships or surface buoys.

These systems automatically collect water quality parameters, aquaculture biological pictures, and video information, providing a reliable data source for intelligent fish farms’ automatic control and decision-making.

Another innovation is the Intelligent Aeration System, which accurately measures and controls the dissolved oxygen in the water in real time, ensuring optimal water conditions for fish growth and survival.

Meanwhile, digital feeding systems, such as digital feeders, use machine learning to tailor feeding schedules to specific fish, providing optimized feeding plans based on speed, growth, and current population.

Moreover, automatic feeding systems, including centralized control and robotic feeders, are increasingly prevalent in recirculating aquaculture. They help maintain ideal feeding schedules and reduce the burden of manual labor.

Innovative bait-dropping equipment should be deployed on unmanned boats or UAVs in pond-type intelligent fish farms to ensure efficient and precise feeding.

Cutting-Edge Robotics: Advanced Monitoring and Maintenance Systems

Advances in aquaculture technology have given rise to a new breed of aquatic helpers: biomimetic robot fish. These robotic wonders come with sensors that automatically monitoring water quality and critical equipment operations.

In addition, they can even use computer vision technology to analyze fish feeding patterns and generate data that can be used to optimize feeding strategies.

Inspection robots, meanwhile, use deep learning, computer vision, and positioning technology to identify sick or dead fish and remove them using automated manipulators.

The underwater robot deployed in cage culture can detect damaged or contaminated netting and use specialized tools to clean and repair it.

And for recirculating aquaculture workshops, orbital robots travel predetermined inspection routes to inspect the circulating water pipe network, oxygenation equipment, and feeding systems.

These cutting-edge aquatic robots are revolutionizing how we care for our fish, ensuring optimal conditions for their health and well-being.

Innovative Intelligent Harvesting Systems in Aquaculture

In intelligent fish farming systems, innovative harvesting is the ultimate module that completes the flourishing breeding cycle. Utilizing this system, the cultured fish will be easily transported to marketease, either with or without water.

Currently, trawling is the most efficient means of fishing, and providing feedback on the effectiveness of bait-feeding to the control system can help adjust the feeding amount in real-time.

To establish an accurate artificial experience model, vast amounts of observation experience in aquaculture are analyzed using regression fitting analysis to create a mathematical equation that factors in nutrient requirements for optimal fish growth and feed amounts.

Advancements in Monitoring and Analytics for Intelligent Fish Farming

As an intelligent fish farm owner, you understand the importance of tracking data over time to maximize profitability and efficiency. Thankfully, various fish farming software options allow you to easily monitor fish health and farm growth.

With intelligent devices synced to the software, data can be uploaded automatically, and real-time stats can be easily checked on your phone or computer.

Furthermore, cutting-edge computer vision technology can monitor fish behavior and obtain accurate fish hunger levels, improving the ability and accuracy of image processing and providing a theoretical basis for intelligent feeding.

Deep learning, the most advanced machine learning method, can also analyze animal behavior in real-time by combining machine vision, sonar detection, and deep learning technology.

In addition, using fish bioassay, an early biological monitoring method, can help investigate the impact of pollution fluctuation on fish behavior, with movement, respiratory, and group behavior being the primary indicators used to monitor and evaluate water quality.

Fish Biomass Measurement Techniques

Accurate measurement of fish biomass is vital for fish farmers as it informs crucial decisions such as fish food dosage, drug consumption, and the estimation of fish loss.

The length, width, area, and circumference of fish in different growth periods are vital parameters that closely correlate with fish weight and, therefore, are a crucial basis for estimating fish biomass.

Laser scanning technology, a noninvasive monitoring technology, has shown great potential in the real-time estimation of fish biomass.

Additionally, identification sonar is another effective multi-beam system that utilizes acoustic lenses to transmit independent beams in water, making it a reliable tool for fish stock identification.

Moreover, modern remote sensing technology, which involves using satellite remote sensing images and relevant professional software, can accurately analyze marine fishery resources and precisely determine fish stock position, significantly enhancing the accuracy and quantity of fishing.

Photo: Shelly Wutke

Intelligent Diagnosis for Fish Diseases and Equipment Faults

When a once-healthy fish falls ill, it often undergoes visible changes in the color and texture of its body surface.

However, since different types of fish can display different symptoms of the same disease, accurately identifying the specific type of fish is the crucial first step in studying fish diseases.

Researchers can achieve this by analyzing sub-images of the sick fish’s body and extracting its features using statistical and wavelet methods to analyze color and texture. However, current methods for analyzing fish images have limitations.

Adding water quality analysis, fish behavior analysis, and meteorological data analysis as input to deep learning algorithms can significantly improve the accuracy and sensitivity of the automatic fish disease diagnosis system in intelligent fish farms.

Intelligent fault diagnosis of equipment follows a two-step process. Firstly, all data is preprocessed, and feature parameters are extracted using deep learning algorithms to represent fault symptoms.

These feature parameters train the neural network and classifier on several sample sets. Secondly, online system data can be diagnosed in real-time using the trained neural network and classifier.

This intelligent fault diagnosis process can help ensure equipment’s efficient and reliable operation.

Challenges and Potential of Deep Learning in Aquaculture Robotics

The development of aquaculture robots has brought forth several challenges, specifically in optimizing algorithms for target identification and positioning, navigation and path planning, and operation object sorting and monitoring.

Despite these challenges, deep learning in aquaculture has shown great promise in extracting critical features from agricultural images and structured data, thus aiding in developing intelligent aquaculture equipment.

However, the application of deep learning in aquaculture is still hindered by the need for extensive data sets for model training, verification, and testing and the requirement for labeled sample data for supervised learning.

These deficiencies highlight the need for further research and development in aquaculture robotics.

The Potential and Limitations of Autonomous Aquaculture

Autonomous aquaculture is a burgeoning field with enormous potential, but it has challenges. A recent review by Wang et al. categorizes intelligent aquaculture into four types, each with unique difficulties.

However, overarching issues present the most significant challenges, including the unreliability of environmental sensors, unstable network transmission, and challenges associated with data acquisition in complex environments.

While these challenges are considerable, using autonomous robots offers new hope for aquaculture, with advanced systems allowing for low-level autonomous operations such as fish feeding and facility inspection.

As technology advances, the potential for highly autonomous aquaculture operations grows ever closer, promising a more sustainable and efficient future for this vital industry.

Photo: hobbyfarms

Conclusion

The future of farming lies not on land but in the vast and bountiful oceans. With the rise of intelligent fish farming, the possibilities for growth and profitability are boundless.

Aquaculture production is set to become more efficient and labor-free thanks to advancements in technology such as AI, big data analysis, IoT, sensors, machine vision, and robots.

The intelligent fish farm represents the pinnacle of technological advancement in farming, but its construction is no easy feat.

Issues such as sensor reliability, robustness and accuracy of analysis models, IoT data transmission, and equipment coordination remain challenges that require further resolution.

But with determination and innovation, the rewards of a thriving and sustainable aquaculture industry are within reach.

Related post: The Art and Science of Worm Farming

source https://harvestsavvy.com/future-of-fish-farming/

Chicken Keeping 101: Expert Advice on How to Protect Yourself and Your Flock from Illness

In the world of chicken keeping, it’s not uncommon for first-time flock owners to feel as though they’ve been unceremoniously thrown into the deep end of an ocean without the slightest idea of how to stay afloat.

Even seasoned poultry experts can relate to the uncertainty that arises when starting. I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Mike, a veterinarian and chicken keeper from a long line of poultry enthusiasts.

With his extensive poultry illness and morbidity knowledge, Mike is uniquely positioned to offer valuable insight into chicken keeping.

During his veterinary studies, Mike underwent an intensive poultry unit, which involved in-depth training on the many viral, bacterial, and fungal infections common to poultry and conducting necropsies.

This extensive education has proven invaluable in his role as a veterinarian and chicken keeper. On occasion, Mike even inspects poultry-processing facilities, utilizing his wealth of knowledge to ensure the health and safety of the birds.

When I asked Mike what questions he had regarding starting a micro flock of chickens, his response was immediate and to the point: “How can I avoid getting sick?”

With his extensive training and experience, Mike understands the importance of protecting himself and his birds from the various illnesses that plague the poultry community.

Related post: From Chick to Flock: The Joys and Challenges of Raising Poultry

Understanding the Risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

In the world of chicken ownership, the talk of the town is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly referred to as bird flu. This disease has been wreaking havoc on poultry flocks across the globe for years, with the latest outbreak occurring in the US in 2014.

However, the current outbreak has caused far more devastation due to its presence in thousands of migratory birds.

These birds have spread the disease through their droppings and direct contact with other birds, resulting in widespread infections that have forced officials to take drastic measures.

Working with avian veterinary pathologists, agricultural officials have been forced to euthanize infected flocks to control the spread of the disease.

Unfortunately, this has resulted in skyrocketing egg prices and the deaths of millions of laying hens, with Colorado alone having to euthanize over 6 million birds.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that nearly 60 million commercial, hobby, and backyard chickens and wild birds have tested positive for HPAI since January 2022.

Despite the concerning situation, there is some encouraging news. In the US, only one confirmed case of avian-to-human transmission of HPAI since the current outbreak.

The infected individual was not a backyard or hobby flock owner but a specialist directly handling and culling the infected birds. Additionally, the infected individual only experienced mild symptoms such as fatigue.

The CDC has actively monitored the health of more than 2,500 individuals involved in the nationwide culling operation and those exposed to the current strain of HPAI.

So far, only one infection has been confirmed, leading the CDC to classify the risk of transmission as low. This is excellent news for anyone concerned about getting sick from bird flu via their chickens.

Read more: Avian Influenza: Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention in Poultry

Health Threat Posed by Backyard Flocks: Salmonella Infection

Protecting your health and well-being is essential, especially if you are a backyard chicken keeper. While bird flu remains a significant concern, the more realistic health threat comes from Salmonella infection.

According to the CDC, there are roughly 1.35 million confirmed cases of Salmonella in the United States each year, with over 25,000 cases leading to hospitalization. While not all cases are caused by chickens or eggs, these backyard companions are often culprits.

Although only one out of every 20,000 eggs is contaminated with Salmonella, it’s essential to be cautious. Chickens can carry the bacteria and transmit it to their eggs and chicks, which can then spread to humans.

Basic flock-keeping activities, such as collecting eggs, refilling feeders and waterers, cleaning out coops, and holding chicks, can all lead to bacterial transmission.

However, preventing contamination is simple; taking necessary precautions can ensure that you and your flock remain safe and healthy.

Photo: Wired

From Spot Checks to Deep Cleans: Cleaning Your Chicken Coop

Maintaining a clean and hygienic chicken coop is essential to ensure the well-being of your feathered friends. Keeping your coop clean is the topmost priority to prevent the spread of disease and parasites that can negatively affect the health of your chickens.

A dirty coop can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause illness in your chickens. Parasites like lice and mites can lay eggs in the bedding and around the coop.

Thus, keeping the coop and nesting area clean is crucial to prevent parasites from spreading. To keep your coop clean, provide roosts for your chickens to keep them from sleeping on their droppings, frequently remove droppings, and clean and disinfect the coop regularly.

Choose a coop made of easy-to-clean materials like metal or plastic instead of wood if possible. It’s also necessary to replace the nesting material every fortnight or when soiled.

Photo: Hobby Farms

Treating the pen and nesting area with appropriate insecticides is vital to prevent the spread of parasites. Using a natural solution like VetRx Poultry Remedy is recommended for this purpose.

Cleaning your chicken waterer and feeder is also essential to maintaining a clean coop. Use a safe disinfectant like a 10 percent bleach solution and water to clean the equipment before and after use.

Ensure you rinse them thoroughly and have disinfectants handy to clean them weekly. To clean your chicken coop, add absorbent wood shavings to the floor and nest boxes, about three to four inches deep, to keep the area dry and odor-free.

Remove wet or soiled bedding daily and replace all bedding weekly. At least twice a year, perform a deep clean by removing everything from the coop and sanitizing with a 90/10 water and bleach solution.

By keeping your coop clean, you’ll ensure the health and happiness of your chickens.

Keeping Your Flock Healthy and Safe with These Measures

As a conscientious poultry owner, you understand the importance of maintaining a hygienic and disease-free environment for your beloved flock.

Fortunately, safeguarding your feathered friends against avian-based illness need not be a daunting task but rather a series of simple measures to be incorporated into your daily routine.

By adhering to these practices, you can ensure the well-being of your flock and keep everyone healthy.

Firstly, washing your hands with antibacterial soap and hot water after handling birds, eggs, or poultry equipment is crucial. Secondly, discard eggs that are cracked or have feces-covered shells.

It is also important to cook egg dishes to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F, ensuring that both the yolk and white are firm, not runny.

Additionally, designating footwear solely for use in the chicken run and coop will prevent the spread of Salmonella via droppings carried on shoe soles.

Furthermore, it may be prudent to consider purchasing a set of coveralls exclusively used for working in the coop or running and sanitizing bird feeders and waterers regularly.

Avoid hanging wild-bird feeders or installing wild-bird nesting boxes and baths in your yard to limit wild birds’ impact. Installing a roof over your chicken run or covering it with fine bird netting will keep wild birds out if possible.

A fellow chicken owner, Michael, found solace in discovering that he need not be an expert to keep himself healthy when keeping chickens.

His simple practices of maintaining a fully-contained coop and adhering to safety measures were enough to safeguard him against getting sick.

Consider implementing these simple measures into your daily routine; you can be sure your feathered friends will be in good health and spirits.

Discover A Guide to Preventing and Treating Common Chicken Illnesses

A Health Management Program

Ensuring the well-being of your flock is crucial to their long-term health and happiness, and establishing a health management program is a proactive measure in disease prevention.

Fortunately, the steps are straightforward, requiring minimal effort and time. By implementing a few basic actions, you can take the first step in preventing illness before it occurs.

• Protect your chicks against coccidiosis by vaccinating them or providing them with medicated feed.
• Establish a semi-annual deworming schedule, preferably in spring and autumn, to maintain healthy digestive systems.
• Treat your chickens for mites and lice at least twice a year, and treat their living space with an insecticide to prevent the spread of parasites.

Use products like Rotenone dust or Avitrol Spray for external treatment, while Ivermectin and Maldison are helpful for internal parasite control. These measures are essential in keeping your chickens in the best possible health.

Photo: Hobby Farms

Protecting Your Flock from Disease and Contamination

As a backyard chicken enthusiast, you must prioritize your hens’ health by following simple steps. Firstly, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling your feathered friends or their eggs.

Minimizing exposure to external contaminants is equally crucial to keep your flock healthy. This includes reducing exposure to visitors who own poultry, changing your clothes and shoes after being with another flock, and designating a pair of shoes or boots to be worn only around your chickens.

To avoid contact with wildlife and domestic pets, store food in safe areas such as inside the coop or runs, and place wild bird feeders far away from the coop.

When adding new birds to the flock, always follow a 30-day quarantine and keep them away from your existing flock, observing them for signs of illness.

To ensure your flock stays healthy, restrict access to your property and birds, and clean and disinfect all equipment, including cages and tools.

When purchasing birds, buy them from reputable sources and quarantine new birds or birds returning to the flock for at least 30 days. Avoid sharing garden equipment or poultry supplies with other bird owners, and always clean and disinfect them before bringing them home.

Lastly, be vigilant about the warning signs of chicken diseases, including decreased feed consumption, huddling, and respiratory symptoms such as coughing and sneezing.

As you get to know your flock, pay attention to changes in their behavior, and contact a veterinarian if you notice any signs of illness. Remember, early detection is critical to preventing the spread of disease and keeping your flock happy and healthy.

Tips for Preventing Diseases and Parasites in Your Chicken Coop

As chicken owners, we are responsible for protecting our flock from potential diseases and parasites that can cause havoc in our chicken coop. Sadly, these health hazards are not always visible to the naked eye and can come from various sources.

One of the most common sources of disease and parasites in chicken coops is rodents, carriers of harmful organisms that spread through their feces.

Therefore, it is essential to keep the chicken feed out of reach of rats and mice and use a no-waste chicken feeder to prevent feed spillage.

Additionally, wild birds can be a significant carriers of worms and diseases that can harm domestic fowl. Therefore, it is essential to limit the access of wild birds to the chicken coop by using high-quality bird netting.

Furthermore, while chickens naturally consume insects, slugs, snails, and earthworms, these pests can carry worm eggs that infect chickens. Therefore, it is crucial to prevent chickens from eating these pests and limit their access if possible.

In addition, new birds are often the culprit for introducing diseases into the coop, even those from certified breeders. Therefore, it is vital to isolate new birds for up to two weeks and watch for any signs of illness before introducing them to the flock.

To err on the side of caution, using a “sacrificial” bird to test the new birds’ health before introducing them can prevent an outbreak in the coop.

Lastly, it is crucial to maintain a dry and clean chicken run without muddy puddles, as they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and disease. By following these preventive measures, we can protect our flock and ensure they live healthy and happy life.

Learn more about Winter Care for Chickens: Tips to Keep Your Flock Healthy and Happy

How to prevent the spread of illness among chickens

When it comes to keeping your flock healthy, vigilance is critical. Illness can spread swiftly amongst chickens, so monitoring them closely and removing any bird showing signs of disease is crucial.

Not only does this help prevent the infection of others, but it also gives the sick bird a better chance of recovery and stops bullying from other birds. Once the ill bird has been isolated, providing it with adequate warmth and hydration is essential.

If the bird cannot drink on its own, you can use a dropper to administer a solution of electrolytes and water, such as AviLYTE, to aid recovery. In case of a contagious illness, it is recommended to treat the whole flock to prevent the infection from spreading further.

Even if only one bird is displaying signs of disease, there is a high likelihood that the entire flock has already been affected. This is particularly true in the case of internal parasites such as worms. Therefore, proactive measures are crucial to maintaining the health of your flock.

Related post: Herbs for Chickens: Top 14 Herbs To Grow For Your Flock

source https://harvestsavvy.com/protect-your-flock-from-illness/