Farm and Dairy’s week in review: 10/9

Here are this week’s top stories from Farm and Dairy:

1. How to prep your coop for cool weather

Farm and Dairy online columnist Ivory Harlow shares six steps for getting your chicken coop ready for fall and winter weather. Health concerns in flocks, like colds and frostbite, are also a concern during this time of year, so she lists the symptoms to watch for in your birds.

In addition, Ivory suggests ways to keep sick birds from spreading their illnesses to healthy birds, plus basic care instructions.

2. Avian influenza could return as fall migration continues

While the last detection of avian influenza was June 17, farmers and bird handlers are cautioned to be alert as wild birds make their southern migration. On-farm biosecurity practices and a quicker depopulation time are included in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s response plan released last month, and USDA is working on a vaccine that will protect flocks from current avian flu strains.

What remains to be determined is what will happen in regards to poultry projects for fairs next year.

3. October’s gardening to-do list

The leaves have just begun to fall, but before we know, the snow will start to fly. Before that happens, make sure your garden is cleaned up so there’s less work to do come spring.

Other tasks you can complete this month now that your vegetables are picked and flowers are done blooming include testing and amending your soil, plant hardy bulbs and fruit and care for any remaining plants during frosts and freezes.

4. Ohio State Fair named among best in nation

In a contest sponsored by USA Today, the Ohio State Fair was named number 8 of 10 of the best state fairs in the United States.

The 12-day event hosts nearly one million visitors each year.

5. Deer meat is a healthy, viable option

This week’s Around the Table Dinner Guest was reporter Chris Kick. Chris shares why he decided to save money by hunting deer and eating venison. Deer meat is healthy and lean, so it’s a good choice of meat and protein.

While hunters can process their own meat, Kick takes his to a local meat shop. There are a number of ways to prepare deer meat, from grilling and slow cooking to pan frying and serving deer bologna as a snack item.