Farm and Dairy’s week in review: 12/20

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

1. Christmas on the farm (Photos)

It’s fun to see farmers taking time out of their busy schedules to add Christmas cheer to their barns. These photos found on the web highlight some unique farms from around the country.

2. Ag outlook: Dairy to drop, but profits may not

Livestock farmers may make out better than grain producers in 2015, but it’s all part of the farm market cycle. While grain prices will be lower, property values will increase.

Dairy prices are expected to drop for a number of reasons, like increased production and an increase in the value of the American dollar. However, dairy producers’ profits may not because feed prices are expected to fall faster than dairy prices and fuel prices are cheaper than in the past few years.

3. Vegan tutor says personal beliefs cost him his job

Vegan sentiments about animal rights posted on social media outside of work hours may have influenced school officials from granting Keith Allison a contract for this school year.

Although Green Local School District superintendent Judy Robinson stated that Allison’s personal beliefs were not a factor in the school board’s decision to renew his contract renewal, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Ohio has stepped in and is seeking litigation if its terms are not met.

4. Winter is for the birds

Winter can be bleak, so why not welcome wildlife to your backyard?

If you planted gourds this past spring, consider making a birdhouse to offer a nesting spot for birds. Or, you can easily make bird seed cakes with only bird seed, water and unflavored gelatin. Homemade suet is another option.

Any of these projects is sure to fill your backyard with nuthatches, sparrows and other birds that hang around for winter.

5. Propane: No one wants another 2014

This might be the best time to stock up on propane. Looking back to January 2014, prices soared as a shortage of propane took its toll on farmers.

Last year, Ohio Gov. John Kasich issued a statewide Energy Emergency Declaration, which helped to speed up propane shipments. Then, State Senator Rob Portman and senators from other states are working on creating legislation that will prevent sharp increases in propane prices from occurring again. In the meantime, livestock producers are urged to fill up in order to avert another crisis like last year’s.