All Posts

Rotating different animals from pasture to pasture is a practice that can transform the health of your farm. It’s a simple strategy with powerful effects on soil quality, animal well-being, and overall farm productivity. Many farmers have seen remarkable improvements by moving livestock regularly instead of keeping them in one place. This post explores why rotating livestock matters, how it works, and practical tips to implement it effectively. Mixed livestock grazing on a he

Composting transforms everyday waste into nutrient-rich soil, reducing landfill overflow and supporting sustainable food production. Many people want to compost but feel unsure about what materials to include, how to manage the pile, and how to safely handle animal or human waste. This guide covers everything you need to know to start composting effectively at home, from kitchen scraps to yard waste, including best practices for turning the pile, ideal pile size, and safety c

Communities thrive when neighbors support each other in practical, everyday ways. Trading tools, sharing knowledge, or lending a hand during tough times creates bonds that money cannot buy. Imagine a community where someone’s bigger tractor helps a neighbor harvest faster, a generator powers a home during a storm, or an extra hose keeps gardens growing. These small acts build a network of trust and resilience that enriches everyone involved. This post explores how trading amo

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a necessity for the future of our planet. Permaculture offers a practical and holistic approach to living in harmony with nature. At its core are 12 principles that guide how we design systems that are productive, resilient, and regenerative. Understanding these principles can help anyone—from gardeners to urban planners—create environments that support both people and the Earth. A thriving permaculture garden showing diverse

Hugelkultur raised beds offer a smart, sustainable way to grow plants while improving soil health and conserving water. This ancient technique, embraced by permaculture practitioners, transforms wood and organic waste into a living, nutrient-rich garden bed. It requires no digging or tilling, making it accessible and cost-effective for gardeners of all levels. This post explores how hugelkultur beds are created, how they retain water, release nutrients, and improve soil struc

Water scarcity can challenge gardeners and animal caretakers, especially in areas with dry spells or limited municipal water access. Collecting rainwater offers a practical, eco-friendly way to support daily watering needs for plants and animals. In Clackamas County, understanding how to set up effective rainwater collection systems, maintain them properly, and comply with local regulations can make a significant difference in water conservation efforts. This post explores va

Choosing the right type of meat bird can significantly impact your farming operation or homestead, affecting costs, time to processing, and overall benefits to your land and wallet. Two popular options are the Cornish Cross and dual purpose meat birds. Each has distinct characteristics that influence how quickly they grow, how much they cost to raise, and what advantages they offer. This post breaks down these differences to help you make an informed decision. Cornish Cross c

Gardening in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) offers unique opportunities and challenges. The region’s climate supports year-round growing, but many urban and small farm spaces are shaded by trees, buildings, or other structures. This guide explores how to make the most of these shaded environments by selecting the right plants and strategies to grow food, attractive plants, and cash crops that thrive in low-light conditions. Whether you want to supply a farmers market, CSA, or fa

Rotational grazing is a powerful approach to managing pastureland that benefits both the soil and the animals grazing on it. By moving livestock through different sections of pasture in a planned sequence, farmers can improve land health, control harmful bacteria, and provide animals with fresh, nutrient-rich food continuously. Each type of grazing animal plays a unique role in maintaining and healing the pasture through their natural behaviors like tilling, scratching, and f

Farming often demands creative solutions that save money, protect animals, and improve soil health. One such solution gaining popularity is the use of cattle panel hoop houses. These structures offer affordable, easy-to-build shelter options that adapt to various farm spaces. Beyond shelter, they support sustainable farming practices like rotational grazing and no-till agriculture. This post explores how cattle panel hoop houses can transform your farm’s efficiency and soil v

Sun chokes, also known as Jerusalem artichokes, are an often overlooked but incredibly valuable addition to any garden. These tubers offer a unique combination of benefits that make them a smart choice for gardeners and food enthusiasts alike. They grow rapidly, provide natural cover, and can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from fresh salads to cooked meals. This post explores why sun chokes deserve a place in your garden and kitchen. Sun chokes growing in soil, ready for

Kidding season is in full swing on a 20-acre farm in Clackamas County, where a group of 30 goats is cared for by a dedicated women's group focused on strengthening food security. This week, the farm welcomed twins from a Nubian goat, a special moment that highlights the farm’s role in supporting sustainable agriculture and community resilience. With several more births scheduled in the coming days, the farm is buzzing with activity and hope. Nubian goat with newborn twins on