Supporting Animals and Sustaining the Land in the Backyard and on the Homestead

Granite State Gardening

There’s been a noticeable increase in interest from landowners in backyard livestock, from laying hens to pigs and sheep. Whether you just have a little bit of outdoor space or a lot, incorporating animals may be a viable option – and undoubtedly many of you already have. While this episode is not a comprehensive how-to guide to raising backyard livestock, this conversation with UNH Extension dairy, livestock and forage field specialist Elaina Enzien weaves together an exciting array of topics relevant for raising animals on a small scale. After listening, you might be inspired to not only learn more and dig deeper, but bring some more animals onto your property.

Featured plant: jimsonweed (Datura stramonium)

Join us on Saturday, September 25 at Wagon Hill Community Garden in Durham, NH for a workshop on using manure in the garden.

Background reading:

· UNH Extension resources on backyard livestock

· Teach Cows to Eat Weeds: The Science, the Steps and the Reasons why Cows Shout Eat Weeds

· Manual of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Agriculture in New Hampshire

· Manure Management for Small and Hobby Farms

One correction: At one point in the episode, Elaina referred to cattle, goats and sheep as monogastrics. A listener pointed out that ruminants is a more accurate term - and he's absolutely right! So we're issuing this correction.