What an Extension Agent Can Do For You
Local extension agents have many names. Some locales call them farm advisors, some cooperative extension agents. Whatever your county may title them, they are a free source of valuable knowledge.
When I wanted to perform a hay analysis on a load of hay I bought for our horses, I needed a hay probe. When I looked on Amazon, hay probes were priced over $150. That made the whole exercise way too expensive. I reached out to my extension agent, Julie Finzel, and she said, “Sure, I can help.” Julie located a hay probe from another farm advisor, picked it up, and delivered it to my house. We chatted while I took my samples, and her range of knowledge about livestock and farming amazed me.
When I asked Julie for a sit-down interview to talk about pests and livestock, especially horses, she was accommodating. What do you do if you have mice getting in your feed? Squirrels can be a big problem in many areas. Is a skunk a health danger? I asked Julie about these and many other varmints, and she was very informative.
The real takeaway from this podcast, however, is how much helpful information you can glean from your extension agent. Most counties across the US have them, I believe, and their advice is always free. If you’re struggling with a livestock or farm problem, check out your local farm or extension agent. And, even if you don’t have a specific problem, Julie’s Face Page is loaded with terrific articles.
Links heard on the show
UCCE Kern/Tulare Livestock Page
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John & Ranae
Episode #177
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When I spoke with Rebecca, she pointed out the primary danger of a trailer breakdown or roadside emergency. Often, the driver is in such a hurry to run back and check on their horse; they forget about their personal safety. She recommends a reflective vest and a red roadside marker to set up behind your trailer. Having traffic see you is important so you can focus on your horse.
Sometimes horse training can seem like a lonely undertaking. That’s why I think it is important to build a “horse resource”. I can’t run out to a trainer every time a problem pops up with my horse. I wouldn’t want to, anyway. But I need to have some place to get a solution.
I had been practicing yoga for about 5 years when I got my first horse at age 51. The year was 2005. My goal was to ride a lot and, although I considered myself fit, my body was feeling the aches and pains of daily horseback riding. Changing my yoga routine to compensate for the muscles I was using as an equestrian really helped me get through the initial period of intense riding.
Both tables are important when trying to figure out what your horse needs.