Winter weather can bring unique challenges for farm and barn owners, from ensuring the safety of animals and structures to keeping pathways clear and accessible. In this edition of our newsletter, we’ll share essential barn safety tips for the colder months, effective snow removal strategies, pest control, and highlight seasonal equipment designed to make winter maintenance easier. Plus, don’t miss our sales promotions and more.
Barn Safety in Winter Months
Winter weather will be here before you know it. Some regions get more snow than others, so it is important to properly prepare your barn and come up with a plan to keep you, your horses, and your barn safe and warm for those frigid temps.
Start by stocking up on plenty of hay and bedding, as supplies can dwindle by mid-winter when they’re in high demand. Additionally, take the time to inspect your horse blankets for cleanliness and condition; ensuring they are freshly cleaned and waterproofed will keep your horses dry and comfortable in harsh weather. It’s also a smart idea to have an extra turnout sheet on hand for each horse size in your barn, providing a quick solution if a blanket gets wet and needs temporary replacement
As winter approaches, it’s crucial for horse owners to take proactive steps in preparing their barns to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for their equine companions. Begin by conducting a thorough inspection of both the interior and exterior of your barn, identifying any repairs that need to be addressed. Minor issues can quickly escalate in harsh winter weather, so addressing them now can save you time and money later. It’s advisable to schedule visits from a plumber and electrician to check your plumbing and wiring, ensuring everything is properly insulated to prevent frozen pipes. Consider installing water heaters in buckets or troughs to maintain a reliable water supply for your horses. Additionally, assess your electrical system for safety and reliability, making necessary upgrades to eliminate fire hazards. A secondary power source, such as a generator, can be invaluable in emergencies when power outages occur, as no power often means no water!
What Do You Need for Your Snow Removal Plan?
As winter approaches, ensuring safety for both horses and humans is paramount, and a well-thought-out snow-removal plan is essential for equine facilities. Clear access paths not only for vehicles but also specifically for horses and humans is crucial; this includes keeping pathways to and from the barn and pastures unobstructed. Regularly clearing snow from gates and barn doors prevents emergencies and ensures smooth operations, while maintaining at least one trailer plowed out allows for quick transportation in case of an equine emergency. Designating a snow storage area large enough for multiple storms, organizing your snow removal tools, and strategically placing ice melt or coarse salt around high-risk areas can significantly enhance safety. It is important in all scenarios that humans must be able to get to the horses, no matter how brutal the storm might be, to ensure their care and safety!
Keep Pests Out and Horses Safe
Rodents have been unwanted visitors in horse barns for ages. During the winter months, they seek warmth in the barns nestled in feed rooms, stalls, and hay storage areas. They might not be visible now, but you will soon be able to see the aftermath of their unwanted stay. Identifying the type of rodent is the first step to figuring out what measures to take to keep them away. Without hiring a professional, here are a few tips and tricks to deal with the rodents on your own. Keep your barn tidy by storing feed and trash in metal containers with tight-fitting lids to deter these unwanted guests. Additionally, be vigilant in spotting and sealing entry points like cracks in doors or gaps in the foundation—address these quickly to prevent infestations. If you notice nests, removing them will encourage rodents to seek shelter elsewhere. Setting traps or barriers can also be effective in keeping your barn rodent-free. All these options are great alternatives to hiring a pest removal service and can ultimately save you money!
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Hear it from our Customers
“We purchased an Exmark mower to use on the ranch a few years ago, and it has been a workhorse of a machine! The discounts for horse owners are significant!” – Maple Dell Ranch, Exmark Customer
“I test drove a Ventrac when I was in New York and purchased as soon as I got back home to Kentucky. I love my new tractor!” -Janet L., Ventrac Customer
“I am a huge New Holland fan and purchased mowers through the Equine Equipment program. I saved a lot of money on the best equipment, I highly recommend them.” – Doug B., New Holland Customer
