Farmers vs Supermarkets 

Why You Should Shop Direct

The relationship between farmers and supermarkets is often unbalanced, with large retail chains exerting immense pressure on farmers to lower their prices. While this benefits the supermarkets and consumers who seek the lowest possible prices, it often comes at the expense of the farmers’ livelihoods. In this post, we explore how farmers are being squeezed by supermarkets and why supporting local farmers or shopping at farmers' markets is a better choice for you and your community.

Farmwashing

Farmwashing is a marketing tactic used by large food companies, supermarkets, or brands to create the perception that their products are sourced directly from small, local, or family-owned farms, even when this is not the case. Essentially, it’s a form of greenwashing where companies exploit consumers' trust and preferences for locally sourced, sustainable, or ethically produced food. 

The Imbalance of Power

Low Prices and Price Pressure

Supermarkets use their buying power to demand rock-bottom prices from farmers. With their large networks and vast resources, they negotiate prices that are often too low for farmers to cover their costs. This leaves many farmers with slim profit margins, or in some cases, none at all. This practice doesn’t reflect the time, labour, and investment that go into growing the produce, leaving farmers struggling financially.

Delayed Payments

Another tactic supermarkets use is delaying payments. It’s not uncommon for supermarkets to take weeks, or even months, to pay farmers for their produce. This might not be a problem for large corporations, but for small farmers who need immediate cash flow to cover expenses and reinvest in their operations, these delays can be disastrous.

Rejecting Produce Over Cosmetic Standards

Supermarkets enforce strict cosmetic standards on fruit and vegetables, rejecting perfectly good produce if it doesn’t meet their appearance criteria. This includes minor flaws like size, shape, or colour. As a result, farmers are left with large quantities of unsellable goods, leading to waste and financial loss. Consumers rarely get to see the variety and natural imperfections of produce, which is something farmers' markets embrace.

The Unfair Practices of Supermarkets

Pitting Farmers Against One Another

Supermarkets often pit farmers against one another to secure the cheapest possible contract. By encouraging competition among farmers, they can drive down the prices they pay for produce. Farmers are aware that if they don’t meet the supermarket’s demands, their contract could go to a competitor who is willing to accept a lower price. This constant pressure to undercut one another weakens farmers’ bargaining power and forces many to accept prices that barely cover their production costs.

Short-Term Contracts and Switching Suppliers

Supermarkets also use short-term contracts to keep farmers on edge. With no guarantee of renewal, farmers face uncertainty, which forces them to lower their prices to maintain their contracts. Additionally, supermarkets threaten to switch suppliers, often looking to cheaper international markets with lower production costs. This tactic forces local farmers to cut prices even further, making it harder for them to sustain their businesses.

Burdening Farmers with Marketing Costs

While supermarkets push promotional costs onto farmers, the farmers bear the brunt of this burden. Supermarkets might run a sale or promotion on certain produce, but the cost of these discounts often comes out of the farmer’s pocket, not the supermarket’s. In other words, the farmer has to absorb the cost of making the supermarket look good to consumers.

Why You Should Support Farmers Directly

Shop at Farmers' Markets

Farmers' markets allow farmers to sell directly to consumers without the interference of middlemen like supermarkets. This means that the money you spend goes directly to the farmer, allowing them to earn a fair price for their produce. You’re also more likely to find a wider variety of produce, including fruits and vegetables that don’t meet supermarkets’ cosmetic standards but are still perfectly fresh and delicious.

Support Local Agriculture

When you shop locally, you’re not only supporting farmers but also helping to strengthen your local economy. Money spent at farmers' markets or directly with farmers tends to stay in the community, contributing to local businesses and services. Supporting local agriculture reduces food miles, minimises the carbon footprint, and ensures that your food is fresher and more sustainable.

Get Fresher, Healthier Produce

Produce sold at farmers' markets is often picked at the peak of freshness, sometimes even the same day it’s sold. This means you get fresher, tastier, and more nutritious food than what you’d typically find in a supermarket, where produce can sit in storage for days or weeks before reaching the shelves.

Conclusion

The relationship between farmers and supermarkets is heavily skewed in favour of the big retail chains, leaving many farmers struggling to make ends meet. From unfair pricing tactics to rejecting perfectly good produce, supermarkets exploit farmers in a race to maximise profits. By shopping directly from farmers or at local farmers' markets, you can help ensure that farmers get a fair price for their hard work while also enjoying fresher, healthier food for your family.

So next time you’re thinking about where to buy your groceries, consider making the switch to your local farmers' market—you’ll be making a difference for both farmers and the planet.

G'day everyone and welcome to another episode of Not The Farmer's Wife, Episode 86 this week. And we're talking all about self-sufficiency and we're also trialing something new. I've got the handy helper here with me. Say Hello. Hello. I'm here today because it's pouring rain outside and I don't want to do any work.

It's been actually really raining quite hard here at the moment, which is a good thing because we have, as you would know if you're a regular listener, we have a hundred and ten thousand litre water tank that feeds our house that We're not on mains water. So without the rain, we're screwed.

So we like having rain a bit, but also too, we've had a fairly dry winter. I think that would be fair to say. Yeah, it has been pretty dry. We've had a fairly dry winter. And so having the rain coming now is fantastic for the grass because we're going to have a big deal Blossom of grass growing. Of course that means we have to monitor little baby goats for not getting sore tummies.

I wanted it to rain today, so I mowed the grass yesterday. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. So that's always the way. Usually,, when you wash your car, it rains. Yeah. No, hang on. The council graded the road. So of course it's going to rain. Anyway, we're also trialing something new this week. We're recording under a different format and we're video recording as well.

The handy help is a bit nervous because He's worried about how he looks on video. This doesn't look good on video. But if it turns out okay, and I don't know that it will, but if it turns out okay, we're going to start posting our videos to YouTube as well because we will start posting a few more videos to YouTube about how we do things around the farm.

A lot of people have asked us to actually show, not just talk about what we do. So that's a good thing. Now. I also want to do a bit of a shout out quickly before we start talking to my first ever review on the podcast, a little bit exciting. We're over, we're like, 2250 downloads, I think now, and we've never had a review and I do ask for it in the outro, but if you are so inclined, I would love to have you go along and do a review on what you think about our podcast.

It's a great way for other listeners to 📍 get shown the podcast as an option. If there's more reviews on there, it gets shown to more people. That's just the way the algorithms work. Anyway, shout out to Courtney. Thank you very much for leaving a review. I'm super stoked. You might be not in a situation to homestead at the moment, but like I said to you, the main thing is that you're starting.

Yeah. Start small. Don't, and that's what we're talking about today is the guide to self sufficiency for families and how to get moving with that. Because, and we discussed it before we started recording. There's no point going from. An urban townhouse to 500 acres and thinking that you can just switch your lifestyle over.

Boy, are you in for a shock. Yeah. And yeah, the handy helper can probably speak to it more, more than me even, because I grew up in a farm kind of lifestyle as a teenager. So I had some understanding of what I was walking into, but you came from never having been on a Did you? You'd never really been a veggie gardener. Your mum and dad used to grow a little bit of veggies in the background, backyard, didn't they? But they weren't big on it. Not big on it. No. And they certainly I can't see your mum making sourdough. No. No. I don't think she eats that much bread anyway. No. But as far as milking goats and keeping chalks and things like that, you really, you walked into it completely blind, didn't you?

Oh, I did. Yeah, 100%. I had a rough idea, but just, yeah, I wanted it. That was the thing I wanted it. Yeah. But you'd not done it. And this is the hard bit for people starting out with homesteading. Sometimes they, there's so many options. There's so many things you can do that you don't know where to start.

And I probably don't help in that. Since, cause I am one of those people that does have 15 bulls in the air at the same time. And I've just made a I've just refreshed, I've just refreshed my sourdough. So my mother for my sourdough, so that I can make another loaf of bread. This morning we milked, I need to make some cheese because we've inundated, it's milking season and we've got so much milk.

We can't drink it all. So it's time to make cheese. And at the same time, I'm trying to get, seedlings in for the veggie garden. Yeah, there's lots and I'm trying to find new girls for our Brahma roosters. Roosters. So yeah, I, I probably don't help in the sense that I do have 15 balls in the air and I am trying to do everything.

And that's great for me because I'm, some chores I'm so good at I could do in my sleep. Others, I'm still learning too, like everybody else. It's a continual learning path. The worst thing I think I can ever hear from you is, I've got an idea. Oh my God, here we go. That would be good.

The handy helper hates it. I want to do, a friend of mine, shout out to Dave and his wife, who live in Yass. A friend of mine, and I remember seeing it in their house once, and it was the best idea ever. They had painted blackboard paint down a, like a pillar, like a wall in their house, and they had a little chalkboard, like a little You know, duster and some chalk.

And every time one of them thought of an idea that they had to do on their farm, they just wrote it on the chalkboard, like a continual list. And things would just get wiped off the chalkboard as they were done and added as they were thought of. I'd be constantly walking past it.

It's not nice to any helper. Anyway, let's get chatting because I don't want to go over on this one. I feel like we go over all the time when you and I are chatting because we get Because we're both talkers, so it doesn't help. Self sufficiency for families. Easy tips to start. On your journey.

Okay, and I guess the biggest thing is Start small and just chip away and little things that you find easy to do or things that really interest you because Everything if you're really interested in it, you'll probably put more effort into it So if you have always dreamt of being a gardener then start cutting Growing some plants now.

And if you're in a, if you're in a townhouse or a home, a rental, or yeah, somewhere where you can't really dig up the backyard then do it in containers. We still have plants that we have in pots that we'll never put in the ground. Go to your local Bunnings. They've got excess pots, plastic pots.

They've usually got a big trolley full of them. But they don't give them away. You've got Yeah, they do. They give them away. Really? Yeah. Cause otherwise so get some containers, start and start with things like herbs. Herbs are so easy to grow and you will use them in your cooking. Grow a tomato plant.

Yeah. Cherry tomatoes, the little cherry tomatoes are the best ones to grow straight up because they grow really quick, they ripen really quick, and oh my god, my kids, we never get to use them in the kitchen because when I have cherry tomatoes growing out in the veggie garden, if the kids walk out there, they will just stand next to the plant and pull the cherry tomatoes off and eat them straight up.

Grow a tomato in a pot. Yes. Yeah. Cause if you put it in the ground, you'll have tomatoes grow in that same spot for the next 50 years. We have that current problem at the moment with potatoes, don't we? We moved our potato. We had a big potato bed and we moved it because it was deteriorating. I think when you started moving it.

It was in the way of something else that was a bigger plan for you. So we moved it. Yeah. Cause I'm looking to start a market garden, like a proper market garden. I've got a great idea, honey. We can start a market. Because, we have the land here to grow stuff. So worth it looking at doing it. But so start small, start in containers if you have to.

If you own your backyard, then do it. Why have grass that you've got to mow and look after? I know how much you love mowing grass. Yeah, fantastic. I spent four hours doing it yesterday. So get rid of the grass and grow something that you'll use. If it's your property, if you own it and you are well within your legal rights to dig up the grass in the backyard, get rid of the grass, put a veggie garden in.

But then inside, if you like, just say you're in a townhouse and you don't have the space to do things like that in the backyard, or maybe. The idea of gardening freaks you out because that is a step. That you're just not ready for yet, then start inside now, things like canning and preserving. You don't need to be growing your own vegetables to do this.

When I started doing it, I actually wasn't growing that much. And do you remember a Christmas at Gunning and somebody on a noticeable page, like on one of the local Facebook pages said somebody's coming through from Young, which is a big cherry growing area in Australia. And New South Wales and somebody posted and said somebody's coming through from young.

They've got excess cherries If anybody wants to buy two kilos, they've got them in two kilo bags only. So It was five kilos it was a huge bag if They were only selling them in five kilo bags But at a discounted rate and the rate was like at that point, I think cherries were like 20 or 30 a kilo because it was leading up to Christmas and that's when they're more expensive.

And I got them for 10 a kilo. I think it was like 50 bucks for this five kilo bag. And they were beautiful cherries. There was nothing wrong with them. They were not old. They were not seconds. They were not smashed or crushed or anything like that. I canned cherries and I made cherry jam and then I used cherries for all of our Christmas stuff coming up as well.

So I used the whole five kilos canning, preserving and cooking but got them super, super cheap, but I didn't grow them. We didn't have a cherry tree. We have a cherry tree now that doesn't produce anything. Cause I don't know what's going on with it, but yeah but go to the local markets.

I always, when find going to the markets last thing on a Sunday afternoon. If there are a Saturday, Sunday market, food market, if you go last thing on a Sunday afternoon and walk around the fruit and veg stores, you will find people marking down. They will do up bags of things, and sell them really cheap.

And that's a great way to start canning or preserving because you don't have to grow the produce yourself, but it's just that practice of through preserving it and canning it. The other thing is bread. Which, I make sour, I'm not a big bread eater here because grains don't agree with me, but my children obviously still eat bread.

And, but what I've found is when I feed them sourdough bread, it's much better for their stomachs as well. And the head helps the same, you prefer the sourdough don't you? Yeah, it's good. commercially made bread. And yeah, that's a great way to start is doing just a small loaf of bread and you don't have to do a massive big round loaf.

Sourdough doesn't keep and it doesn't keep because it doesn't have preservatives all through it. So just make a small loaf every day or every other day, depending on what your family's needs are. That's something that you can start with without any problems at all. Cheesemaking. If you're interested in cheesemaking, you don't have to have milking goats or milking cows to do cheesemaking.

You can go and buy. milk from somebody and depending on where you live in the U S you guys are so lucky because you can buy raw milk in Australia. We are legally only allowed to buy goat's milk raw. But yeah even non homogenized milk that you can get in the commercial shops. You can use that for making cheese.

I've seen a guy, there was a guy that I was looking at cause and we'll talk about resources in a sec, but there's a guy on YouTube who does. Cheese making and he was using UHT milk. Now I can't even drink UHT milk. It upsets my stomach. The whole family struggles with UHT milk. But during the non milking times, because we live out of town, there's been times when we have bought UHT milk because we need shelf stable milk.

And he makes cheese out of it. I can't think of anything worse, but that's, now the next thing we want to talk about and you'll talk about a bit handy helper, but DIY essentials frugal living. People need to stop thinking of frugal living is cheap. Frugal living is not cheap. Frugal living is not spending thing, money on things that aren't worth spending the money on.

So don't get me wrong, any helper knows when I need a new bra, I go to the bra shop and I am paying 60 or 70 for a bra because I want one that's comfortable and that I am going to wear without complaining. When I go to buy commercial bread for the kids, I am buying the cheapest one on the shelf.

Like I, it's crap anyway, like all of it's crap anyway. So why would I spend? 5 on a loaf when I can spend 1. 25 on a loaf and all they're going to do is make a sandwich for school out of it anyway. So why would I spend the extra? Still fresh bread, bit of white under them. To me, the bread is not worth the extra.

I would rather spend the extra on making my sourdough and and feed them that. But if they're eating commercially made bread, I'm going to buy the cheapest one. Because it's really not worth it to me to spend the extra money on some special bread. Now the same goes for cleaning supplies and things like that.

We use. I've, and I've just gone back to using it full time a lot of vinegar and a lot of bicarb soda in my cleaning products because it's cheaper and I can make it up as I need it. And I don't have to go to the supermarket. I can buy, like I bought, I think it was a five kilo bag from Costco as a bicarb.

And the vinegar came in a four pack. four pack of four liter. Yeah. Vinegar. So we've still got, we've still got eight liters out there that we haven't even touched yet. And it was cheap. It was actually cheap. Now in the past I have actually made vinegar. I think, do you remember at Gunning? Yeah, we used to half, half bottle it and put water in and leave it sit for three months and it turns into vinegar.

So even if you want to go that frugal, you can with what the prices are at Costco at the moment. I haven't bothered because It's cheap as buggery anyway. So I've just been buying it straight. But yeah, vinegar and bicarb soda for cleaning. Now, DIY stuff. I'll let you talk about because you are the DIY king when it comes to recycling things, aren't you?

I love it. I hate spending money on anything. So what are your best tips for people when they're first starting out? Especially with gardens, like I mentioned bef

Beginner Homesteading: How to Start Your Journey

Easy First Steps for Beginner Homesteaders

Start Small and Simple  

Begin with small projects that fit your current lifestyle, such as growing herbs, composting kitchen scraps, or raising a few backyard chickens. These manageable steps will build your confidence.

Understand Your "Why"  

Define why you want to homestead. Is it for healthier food, self-sufficiency, or a deeper connection to nature? Knowing your motivation keeps you focused and helps with long-term planning.

Research and Plan  

Find reliable sources of information to guide your journey. Books, online forums, and local workshops can help you learn about gardening, raising animals, or preserving food.

Making Simple Lifestyle Changes for Homesteading

Reduce Your Reliance on Stores  

Begin by shifting from store-bought products to homemade alternatives, like baking bread or canning your own produce. This mindset change can ease your transition.

Incorporate Self-Sufficiency Slowly  

Gradually replace store-bought items with homegrown ones. This might be eggs from your own chickens, homegrown veggies, or even homemade soap.

Prioritise Sustainability  

Use energy-efficient practices such as rainwater harvesting, solar power, or composting, even in suburban settings, to ease the transition toward more sustainable living.

How to Get Your Family on Board and Handle Overwhelm

Engage Your Family in the Process  

Get your family involved in homesteading decisions. Start with fun and easy tasks, such as gardening or raising chickens, so everyone can feel part of the adventure.

Manage Overwhelm  

Homesteading can feel overwhelming at times. Break large tasks into smaller, manageable goals, and celebrate each small success to keep motivated.

Time Management Tips  

Balancing homesteading with your current lifestyle can be tricky. Set aside specific times for homestead work, and remember it's okay to take things slow.

Buying Rural Land

If you’re dreaming of a self-sustainable lifestyle and planning to buy rural land for a homestead or small farm, you’re not alone. First-time rural buyers often feel excited yet overwhelmed by the process, especially if they've never lived outside a city or suburban area before. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to consider when buying rural land, covering everything from finances to essential infrastructure and farming needs.

Understanding the Financial Side of Buying Land

Planning Your Budget for Rural Living

Buying rural land comes with both upfront and ongoing expenses that first-time buyers should be aware of. Beyond the purchase price of the land, you’ll need to account for additional costs like fees, property taxes, and maintenance. 

It’s also essential to plan for unexpected expenses such as fencing repairs, road upkeep, and infrastructure improvements, which are common when transitioning to a rural lifestyle. Make sure you have a clear budget covering not only the land's cost but also these long-term needs.

Financing Your Purchase: Rural Loans and Programs

Fortunately, several financing options in many countries, including the USA, Australia, and the UK, can help first-time rural buyers.

- In Australia, various government programs aim to support rural and regional buyers. The Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee, for instance, can help with securing a property in a rural or regional area. Additionally, many banks and lenders offer loans tailored to agricultural purchases or lifestyle properties, allowing for flexibility based on land use.

- The USDA loan program is a popular choice for those purchasing rural property in the USA. It offers low interest rates and often requires little to no down payment, making it accessible to first-time buyers. Additionally, traditional mortgage lenders may offer specialised loans for agricultural land or rural homes. Some areas also provide grants or incentives to encourage rural development.

- In the UK, rural land buyers may look into agricultural mortgages, which are specifically designed for purchasing farmland. These are available through many banks and specialised lenders. The government also offers grants and subsidies, such as the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS), for those looking to buy land for agricultural purposes. Various regional schemes are available to encourage investment in rural areas, particularly for those who plan to use the land for farming or conservation.

When considering your financing options, it’s essential to compare interest rates, terms, and any regional programs that could provide additional support. In each country, loans and grants are available that can make buying rural land more accessible to first-time homesteaders.

Evaluating Land for Investment Potential

When choosing rural land, it's important to consider its long-term value. Land near growing communities or with desirable natural resources (like water access) may increase in value over time. 

Additionally, think about the land's potential for farming or other income-generating activities. Good soil, accessibility, and space for livestock or crops can make the land a sound investment for your homesteading plans.

Is there road frontage for a roadside farm shop? Close to farmers markets?

Infrastructure Essentials for New Landowners

Checking Road Access and Transportation Needs

One of the first things to check when buying rural land is whether it has reliable road access. You’ll need year-round access to get supplies, equipment, and visitors in and out of your property. 

If the road leading to your land is private or poorly maintained, you may end up responsible for its upkeep. In areas prone to heavy rains or snow, this can become a costly and labour-intensive task.

Securing Water and Power

Water is crucial for both personal and farming needs. Make sure the land has a reliable water source, whether it’s a well, a natural water body, or municipal water access. Check the quality of water and whether there are any restrictions on its use. For power, consider the availability of grid electricity, or if you’re looking for a more sustainable option, explore solar or wind power systems. 

In rural areas, going off-grid can be a practical and cost-effective solution.

Waste Management and Sanitation Systems

Rural properties often lack access to municipal sewer systems, so you’ll need to plan for waste management. Most rural homes use septic systems, which must be properly installed and maintained. Alternatively, some homesteaders opt for eco-friendly composting toilets. 

Check rubbish removal services for the area also.

Either way, make sure your waste management system complies with local regulations and is suitable for your needs.

Evaluating the Land for Homesteading and Farming

Soil Testing and Land Usability

If you plan to grow crops or raise animals, soil quality is key. Have the soil tested to determine if it’s suitable for farming? Look for nutrient-rich soil that drains well and isn’t too rocky or sandy. The layout of the land also matters—flat or gently sloping land is usually better for market gardens however grazing is suitable for hilly or uneven terrain.

Fencing and Property Lines

Fencing is essential for protecting your crops and livestock, so assess the condition of any existing fences and the cost of installing new ones. You should also ensure property boundaries are clearly marked to avoid disputes with neighbours. Proper fencing will safeguard your animals and define your homestead’s borders, making it a crucial part of your investment.

Researching Area Laws and Restrictions

Before purchasing rural land, investigate local zoning laws, building permits, and regulations. Some areas may have restrictions on the types of structures you can build, the number of animals you can keep, or how you can use the land. Ensure the property’s zoning aligns with your homesteading goals, whether that’s farming, raising livestock, or running a small business.

Buying rural land can be a rewarding step towards a self-sufficient lifestyle, but careful planning is essential. By understanding the financial commitments, ensuring access to necessary infrastructure, and evaluating the land’s suitability for homesteading, you’ll be well on your way to creating the rural life you’ve always dreamed of.

Introduction  Episode 83

Livestock Guardian Dogs (LGDs) play a crucial role on small farms and homesteads by protecting valuable livestock from predators. In this episode, we’ll break down the essentials of LGDs for beginners—everything from choosing the right breed to caring for your new farm guardian. Whether you're worried about foxes, hawks, or stray dogs, LGDs can be your first line of defence.

What Are Livestock Guardian Dogs?  

LGDs are a specific group of dogs bred for centuries to live with and protect livestock from predators. Unlike herding dogs, which move livestock, LGDs are bred to defend the animals they live with. They instinctively bond with the flock and see it as their responsibility to keep them safe, often through patrolling, barking, and sometimes direct confrontation with predators. 

Popular LGD Breeds for Small Homesteads  

Some of the most popular LGD breeds include the Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherd, and Maremma Sheepdog. There are about 45 different types. 

Each breed has its strengths: 

the Great Pyrenees is gentle and patient with livestock, 

the Anatolian Shepherd has the stamina for large properties, 

the Maremma is known for its quiet but effective guarding, especially for poultry. 

The Maremma has a solid, muscular build, a thick white coat, a large head and a black nose. Dogs weigh some 35–45 kg and stand 65–73 cm at the shoulder, while bitches weigh 30–40 kg and stand 60–68 cm. Some dogs may be considerably larger. The coat is long and thick; it is rough to the touch, and forms a thick collar around the neck. It should be solid white; some minor yellowing may be tolerated. The nose, the lips and the skin round the eyes are black.

Understanding each breed's personality and working style is key to picking the right one for your needs.

Choosing the Right Dog for Your Farm  

When selecting an LGD, consider your farm size, the type of livestock you need to protect, and the predators in your area. For example, a larger breed like the Kangal may be better for properties with large predators, while a Maremma might excel in guarding smaller poultry flocks. Also, consider your ability to train and maintain the dog—some breeds are more independent, while others need a bit more guidance.

Training an LGD  

Training LGDs is a slow but rewarding process that usually takes 12 months. Puppy training starts with bonding the dog to the livestock it will protect, with minimal human interaction during work hours to keep its focus on the animals. Avoid treating the LGD like a pet, and instead focus on teaching it boundaries and to patrol its territory. Remember, patience is key, as these dogs naturally grow into their roles over time.

Housing and Containment for LGDs  

LGDs need space to roam, but they should be contained in a secure, fenced area to keep them close to the animals they protect. Fencing not only keeps the LGD with the livestock but also helps prevent the dog from wandering too far, which is a common issue. While they don’t need elaborate housing, providing a basic shelter from the elements is essential, especially in extreme weather.

Feeding and Nutrition  

An LGD’s diet is vital to maintaining its strength and stamina for guarding livestock. High-quality meat or kibble designed for working dogs or a raw diet can be considered, depending on your preferences. LGDs have a slower metabolism, so overfeeding can lead to weight issues, which can affect their ability to guard effectively. Make sure fresh water is always available, especially in hotter climates, and keep an eye on their weight and energy levels.

Maintenance and Health Care  

Just like any other dog, LGDs need regular vet care, including vaccinations, parasite control, and grooming. Many of these breeds have thick coats that need brushing to avoid matting and to keep them comfortable. Hip dysplasia and other joint issues are common in larger breeds, so regular checkups are important. Staying on top of your LGD's health will keep them in peak condition for their demanding job.

How LGDs Protect Poultry and Small Livestock  

LGDs have instinctual behaviors that make them effective at protecting smaller livestock. They patrol their territory, bark at threats, and even create scent boundaries to ward off predators. When it comes to poultry, some LGDs, like the Maremma, excel at keeping aerial predators like hawks away by constantly watching the sky. LGDs fit well into a broader farm protection system and work alongside secure fencing and coops.

Do LGDs Make Good Pets?  

Although LGDs can form strong bonds with their owners, they are primarily working dogs. It’s important to strike a balance between providing affection and allowing them to remain focused on their guarding duties. Oversocializing an LGD with humans can diminish its instincts to protect livestock, so it’s important to remember they are not traditional pets. They thrive on respect, trust, and a clear purpose.

Is an LGD Right for Your Homestead?  

Bringing an LGD onto your farm is a serious commitment. It takes time, patience, and resources to train and care for these dogs, but they can provide immense value by keeping your livestock safe. If you have persistent predator problems or are simply looking for peace of mind, an LGD may be the perfect solution. Weigh the pros and cons carefully to decide if you’re ready for the responsibility of owning a livestock guardian.

Closing Thoughts  

Livestock Guardian Dogs can be an invaluable asset for homesteaders and small farmers, but they require a unique approach to training and care. Take the time to research, connect with experienced LGD owners, and plan for the longterm commitment. Thank you for joining us for this introduction to LGDs—be sure to explore more homesteading tips and resources in our next episode.

Milking Goats for Homesteaders 

Earlier episode - Why Drink Raw Milk

https://www.mojohomestead.net/podcasts/not-the-farmers-wife-2/episodes/2148160617

   - Brief welcome and introduction of the podcast.

   - Share a personal story or common experience of homesteading families considering goats.

   - Overview of the podcast: focusing on milking goats in Australia and the USA, why goats are great for small-acreage farmers, and the benefits of raw goat milk (health, sustainability, and self-sufficiency).

   - Overview of popular milk goat breeds (Nubian, Saanen, Alpine, LaMancha, Nigerian Dwarf).

   - Discussion on breed adaptability to climates in Australia and the USA.

   - Key factors to consider: milk yield, temperament, and care requirements.

   - Step-by-step guide to milking a goat:

     - Preparing the goat: hygiene and comfort.

     - Setting up the milking station: space, equipment (milking stand, pail, filters).

     - Hand-milking technique: how to grip, the rhythm, and troubleshooting common issues.

     - Alternative methods: milking machines for small farms.

   - The importance of maintaining a milking routine for both the goat and milk quality.

   - Tips for goat health: feeding, vitamins, and keeping the goat’s udder healthy.

   - Hygiene practices for safe raw milk: udder cleaning, equipment sterilization, and storage methods.

   - Discussing raw milk regulations in Australia and the USA, and ensuring family safety.

   - Ideas for using fresh milk: drinking, cheese making, yogurt, butter, and soap.

   - Easy cheese-making tips for beginners: soft cheese and basic yogurt recipe.

   - Storing and preserving milk products.

   - Addressing issues like low milk production, milking anxiety (both for you and the goat), and common health problems (mastitis, udder infections).

   - How to recognise signs of discomfort in goats and ensure their well-being.

Goat Breeds for Homesteaders

 Introduction

- Why Goats?  

  - Goats are versatile animals that can provide meat, milk, and fibre.

  - They are relatively low-maintenance and adaptable, making them a popular choice for homesteaders.

  - Overview of the three main categories of goat breeds: meat, milk, and fibre.

Meat Goat Breeds

   - Purpose: Raised primarily for their meat, these breeds are typically hardy and efficient converters of feed into body mass.

   - Pros:

     - Fast-growing, large, and heavy-muscled.

     - High-quality meat production.

     - Easy to manage and generally docile.

     - Good feed-to-meat conversion rate.

   - Cons:

     - Can be prone to health issues if not well-managed (e.g., parasites).

     - More expensive initial purchase cost.

     - Requires good fencing due to their strength and curiosity.

   - Pros:

     - Extremely hardy and low-maintenance.

     - Resistant to parasites and diseases.

     - Good foragers, can thrive on rough terrain.

   - Cons:

     - Slower growth compared to Boer goats.

     - Meat yield may be lower in comparison to larger breeds.

     - Can be more independent, which may be challenging for beginners.

   - Pros:

     - Highly adaptable and resilient to harsh environments.

     - Low maintenance with excellent foraging ability.

     - Can thrive in extensive, low-input systems, ideal for beginner homesteaders.

   - Cons:

     - Generally smaller than Boer or Kiko, so less meat yield.

     - Can be wilder in temperament and harder to manage in confined spaces.

     - May require more time to acclimate to different climates.

Milk Goat Breeds

   - Purpose: Primarily kept for their high milk production, with some breeds also having dual-purpose qualities.

   - Pros:

     - Excellent milk production.

     - Hardy and adaptable to different climates.

     - Good for mixed-flock operations.

   - Cons:

     - Lower butterfat content compared to other dairy breeds.

     - Can be more independent and aloof.

     - More attention may be required to their nutrition for optimal milk production.

   - Pros:

     - One of the highest milk producers.

     - Calm and gentle demeanor.

     - Good choice for family farms due to their obedience.

   - Cons:

     - Milk has a lower butterfat content.

     - Sensitive to heat, so may require additional cooling in hot climates.

     - Large size can be intimidating for beginners.

Fibre Goat Breeds

   - Purpose: These goats are primarily raised for their fibre, which can be used to produce high-quality wool or cashmere.

   - Pros:

     - Produces high-quality mohair fibre.

     - Mohair is valuable and in demand.

     - Can be dual-purpose for both fibre and meat.

   - Cons:

     - High maintenance: Require regular shearing and more grooming than other breeds.

     - Susceptible to parasites, so health management is key.

     - Not as hardy as other breeds, more prone to illness in harsh climates.

   - Pros:

     - Produces luxury cashmere fibre.

     - Hardy and adaptable to different environments.

     - Typically less maintenance than Angoras.

   - Cons:

     - Fiber yield is lower per goat compared to Angoras.

     - Cashmere goats can be more independent and less docile.

     - Need specialised knowledge to harvest and process cashmere properly.

 Dual-Purpose Goat Breeds

   - Purpose: Some breeds can provide both meat and milk, offering versatility for homesteaders.

   - Pros:

     - High butterfat content in milk (great for cheese and cream).

     - Dual-purpose: Can also provide meat.

     - Friendly and social personality.

   - Cons:

     - Loud and vocal, which may be a concern for neighbours.

     - Prone to health issues in wet or cold climates.

     - Require good fencing, as they can be escape artists.

   - Pros:

     - Good milk production with decent butterfat content.

     - Adaptable and hardy in various climates.

   - Cons:

     - Milk production is lower than top milk breeds.

     - Can be more aloof than other dairy breeds.

     - Not as large as Boer or Kiko for meat production.

   - Pros:

     - Excellent milk for its size, with high butterfat content.

     - Small, manageable size for beginners.

     - Friendly, easygoing personality.

   - Cons:

     - Lower milk yield due to small size.

     - Not suitable for large meat production.

     - Can be escape artists if fencing isn’t secure.

 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Goat Breed

   - Homestead Goals: Do you want milk, meat, fibre, or a combination of these?

   - Climate: Some breeds are more suited to hot or cold climates.

   - Space Available: Larger breeds need more room to roam.

   - Experience Level: Some breeds are better for beginners, while others require more hands-on care.

   - Budget: Consider initial costs, as well as long-term care and maintenance.

 Conclusion

- Balancing Needs with Practicality: Encourage new homesteaders to evaluate their needs and goals before choosing a goat breed.

- Starting Small: For first-timers, starting with a dual-purpose or easy-to-manage breed may be the best choice.

- Continued Learning: Keeping goats is a rewarding experience that requires ongoing care, learning, and patience.

The Doe Code

Episode 80

"The Doe Code" is a lighthearted and humorous interpretation of the behaviours exhibited by goats, particularly mother goats, as they approach labour and delivery. Although it's not an official or scientific guide, it provides an amusing take on the quirks and unpredictabilities of goats during this time.

Many goat owners believe that this secret code is passed down from nanny to doe daughter and is strictly adhered to no matter how good the relationship with their humans is. 

Unlike other domestic farm animals, goats thrive when they are causing confusion and hassle to their humans. They are much smarter than you realise and will do exactly as they please! They cannot be tamed as some other farm animals.

The Doe Code

1- No kid shall be born until total chaos has been reached by all involved. Your owner's house must be a wreck, their family hungry and desperate for clean clothes, and their social life nonexistent.

2- "Midwives" must reach the babbling fool status before you kid out. Bloodshot eyes, tangled hair and the inability to form a sentence mean the time is getting close.

3- For every bell, beeper, camera or whistle they attach to you, kidding must be delayed by at least one day for each item. If they use an audio monitor, one good yell per hour will keep things interesting.

4- If you hear the words, "She's nowhere near ready. She'll be fine while we're away for the weekend," Wait until they load the car, then begin pushing!

5- Owner stress must be at an all-time high! If you are in the care of someone else, ten to fifteen phone calls a day is a sign you're getting close.

6- When you hear the words "I can't take it anymore!" wait at least three more days.

7 -You must keep this waiting game interesting. False alarms are mandatory! Little teasers such as looking at your stomach, pushing your food around in the bucket and then walking away from it, and nesting, are always good for a rise. Be creative and find new things to do to keep the adrenaline pumping in those who wait.

8- The honour of all goats is now in your hands. Use this time to avenge all of your barn mates. Think about your friend who had to wear that silly costume in front of those people. Hang onto that baby for another day. OH, they made him do tricks too! Three more days seems fair. Late feedings, the dreaded diet, bad haircuts, and those awful wormings can also be avenged at this time.

9- If you have fulfilled all of the above and are still not sure when to have the kids, listen to the weather forecast on the radio that has been so generously provided by those who wait. Severe storm warning is what you're waiting for. In the heart of the storm jump into action! The power could go out and you could have the last laugh. You have a good chance of those who wait missing the whole thing while searching for a flashlight that works!

10- Make the most of your interrupted nights. Beg for food each time someone comes into the barn to check on you. Your barn mates will love you as the extra goodies fall their way too.

Alternative sections of the "The Doe  Code" are as follows.

And if you think we are joking you need to go buy a goat.

Meat Birds

Kill Cones - https://amzn.to/4fUYt9N

Butchers Aprons that we use - https://amzn.to/3SXujZp

Rubber Fingers for Plucker - https://amzn.to/4cwIwnk

Butcher Knife that we use - https://amzn.to/46VIFzd

 Raising chickens as meat birds, also known as broilers, requires careful planning and attention from day-old chicks to processing. Here’s a comprehensive list of everything a homesteader needs to consider:

   - Broiler Breeds: Select a breed known for meat production, such as Cornish Cross or Red Rangers (USA), Cob (AUS) and Broiler (UK). Cornish Cross, Cobs and Broilers are fast-growing, typically ready for processing at 6-8 weeks, while Red Rangers grow slower but are hardier and more suited for pasture. 

Heritage breeds take longer to grow but are becoming more popular with homesteaders and small farmers. Any of the dual-purpose breeds can be used for meat in this way. 

Australop, Brahma, Plymouth Rock, Orpingtons, Rhode Island Red and White, Sussex and Wyndottes.

   - Source: Purchase chicks from a reputable hatchery or breeder to ensure healthy, disease-free stock.

   - Brooder Setup: For the first few weeks, keep chicks in a brooder with a controlled temperature. Provide 0.05 square meters (0.5 square feet) per chick, increasing as they grow.

   - Coop or Shelter: Once they’re feathered, move them to a coop or shelter. Provide 0.28-0.37 square meters (3-4 square feet) per bird inside the coop and 0.93-1.4 square meters (10-15 square feet) per bird in outdoor space.

   - Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to reduce moisture and ammonia buildup.

   - Protection: Secure housing to protect from predators, ensuring doors and windows can be locked or closed securely.

   - Chick Starter Feed: Start with a high-protein chick starter feed (18-20% protein) for the first 4 weeks.

   - Broiler Grower Feed: Transition to broiler grower feed with 20-24% protein until processing time.

   - Feed Consumption: Expect rapid growth; monitor feed consumption closely and ensure there’s always enough available. 

   - Feeding Schedule: Some homesteaders restrict feed access to 12 hours on, and 12 hours off after the first few weeks to prevent health issues like leg problems and heart failure.

   - Constant Access: Broilers need constant access to clean, fresh water. Ensure waterers are large enough to meet their needs.

   - Waterer Type: Use sturdy waterers that can’t be easily knocked over as the birds grow larger and heavier.

   - Maintenance: Clean waterers regularly to prevent bacterial growth.

   - Vaccination: Vaccination is a personal consideration, so do your own research. Consider vaccinating chicks against common diseases like Marek’s disease.

   - Biosecurity: Practice good biosecurity by limiting access to the coop and cleaning tools and boots before and after handling the birds.

   - Observation: Regularly check for signs of illness, such as lethargy, coughing, or abnormal droppings.

   - First Aid Kit: Keep a poultry first aid kit with essentials like electrolytes, probiotics, and wound care supplies.

   - Weight Tracking: Regularly weigh a sample of birds to monitor growth and ensure they’re on track for the processing date.

   - Adjust Feed: Adjust feeding if growth is too fast or slow to avoid health issues or poor meat quality.

   - Bedding Type: Use absorbent bedding such as pine shavings or straw. Avoid cedar shavings due to their potential toxicity.

   - Bedding Depth: Start with 5-8 cm (2-3 inches) of bedding, adding more as needed to keep it clean and dry.

   - Cleaning Schedule: Clean the coop and replace bedding regularly to prevent ammonia buildup and disease.

   - Tractor or Mobile Coop: For pasture-raising, use a chicken tractor or mobile coop to rotate birds on fresh grass, providing them with a more varied diet and better meat flavour. The fast-growing meat birds can leave the brooder usually around the 3-week mark, heritage breeds closing the 6 weeks. It's about being fully feathered.

   - Pasture Management: Rotate pasture regularly to prevent overgrazing and reduce disease risks from soiled ground.

   - Processing Date: Plan the processing date, typically around 6-8 weeks for Cornish Cross, and 10-12 weeks for slower-growing breeds, maybe even later.

   - Fasting Before Processing: Remove feed 12-24 hours before processing to empty the birds' crops, but continue providing water.

   - Processing Supplies: Gather all necessary supplies, such as killing cones, knives, scalding pot, plucker, evisceration tools, and cooling containers.

   - Processing Station Setup: Set up a clean, organised area for processing with easy access to water for scalding and cleaning.

   - Humane Dispatching: Use a humane method for dispatching the birds, such as a killing cone and sharp knife.

   - Scalding: Scald the birds in hot water (60-65°C or 140-150°F) for 30-60 seconds to loosen feathers for plucking.

   - Plucking: Use a plucking machine or hand pluck the birds, ensuring all feathers are removed.

   - Disassemble: Carefully remove internal organs, saving desired parts like the liver, heart, and gizzard.

   - Cooling: Immediately cool the birds in ice water to bring down the internal temperature and prevent spoilage.

   - Resting the Meat: Let the processed birds rest in the refrigerator for 24 hours before freezing to allow the meat to relax and improve tenderness.

   - Packaging: Packaging the meat in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

   - Labeling: Label packages with the date of processing for easy inventory management.

   - Growth Records: Keep detailed records of feed consumption, growth rates, and health issues.

   - Processing Records: Record processing dates, weights, and yield to track efficiency and plan for future batches.

   - Expense Tracking: Track all costs associated with raising the birds, including feed, bedding, and processing supplies, to evaluate profitability.

   - Processing Regulations: Be aware of local regulations regarding on-farm processing. Some areas require inspection or specific handling practices.

   - Sales Laws: If planning to sell meat, check for local laws on meat sales, which may require licensing or inspection.

   - Composting Waste: Compost feathers, offal, and other processing waste, or use them as fertiliser if regulations allow.

   - Rotating Pastures: If pasture-raising, use rotational grazing to maintain soil health and reduce parasite loads.

Holidaying with Chickens

If you’re a chicken owner planning to go away for a weekend, you need to ensure your chickens are well-cared for during your absence. Here’s a complete list of considerations:

   - Automatic Feeder: Invest in an automatic feeder that can hold enough feed for the duration of your absence. Ensure it’s filled with enough feed for the weekend.

   - Feed Supply: Double-check the feed supply to make sure there’s more than enough to cover the time you’ll be gone.

   - Automatic Waterer: Use an automatic waterer or a large water container to ensure a continuous supply of fresh water.

   - Water Capacity: Ensure the waterer has sufficient capacity to last the entire weekend.

   - Backup Water Source: Consider setting up a secondary water source in case the primary one fails.

   - Secure Coop: Make sure the chicken coop is securely locked to protect against predators. Check that there are no gaps or weak spots where predators could get in.

   - Weather Protection: Ensure the coop is protected from the elements, with adequate ventilation and no leaks. If extreme weather is expected, take additional precautions.

   - Nest Boxes: Ensure nest boxes are clean and ready to collect eggs. If you’ll be gone for a short period, it’s usually fine to leave eggs in the nest boxes until you return, but extended periods may require someone to collect eggs daily to prevent breakage or egg-eating. Rollaway boxes work best for this, as the egg will roll to the back and not be broken by the next lady coming in.

   - Egg Collection Service: Consider asking a neighbour, friend, or pet sitter to collect eggs if you’ll be away for longer than a day or two.

   - Check Chickens: Before you leave, check that all chickens are healthy with no signs of illness. Address any issues before you go.

   - First Aid Kit: Have a chicken first aid kit available with essentials like electrolytes, probiotics, and antiseptic in case of minor issues.

   - Predator Deterrents: Ensure any predator deterrents, such as motion-activated lights or alarms, are functioning properly.

   - Clean Coop: Clean the coop thoroughly before leaving to minimize the risk of buildup in waste or odours.

   - Bedding: Add fresh bedding to the coop and nest boxes to ensure the chickens are comfortable over the weekend.

   - Check for Hazards: Look for any potential hazards inside the coop or run, such as sharp objects, and remove them.

   - Automatic Door: If you have an automatic coop door, ensure it’s functioning correctly and has a backup power source (e.g., battery) in case of a power outage.

   - Timers: Verify that any timers for lights or automatic systems are set correctly.

   - Pet Sitter: Consider hiring a pet sitter or asking a neighbour to check on your chickens once a day. Provide them with clear instructions on what to do.

   - Emergency Contact: Leave your contact information and that of a local vet with your designated helper, just in case.

   - Instructions: Provide written instructions for anyone who may be helping out, including how to handle emergencies, where to find supplies, and what to do with eggs.

   - Emergency Plan: Make sure there’s a plan in place for emergencies, such as power outages or unexpected weather changes.

   - Check Cameras: If you have security cameras or a baby monitor in the coop, ensure they’re working so you can check on your chickens remotely.

   - Final Walkthrough: Do a final walkthrough before you leave to ensure everything is in order.

By taking these steps, you can enjoy your weekend away with the confidence that your chickens will be safe, healthy, and well-cared for in your absence.