With temperatures dropping quickly, snow falling in some parts of the country already, and scientists with the NOAA forecasting a bit more snow this winter for the Northwest part of the U.S., winter is certainly here.

While there may seem like there’s always something to check off your to-do list, make sure you’ve prepared your hobby farm for the cold so come springtime, you’ll be ready to go. Here are some things you can do to get ready for this winter season:

Prep Your Soil
Take all of those fallen leaves that you said you’d clean up two weeks ago and compost them. Getting your compost ready before springtime planting will save you time and energy.

Stock Up on Food
Severe winter weather can hit fast. Make sure to stock up on as much food as you can for your hobby farm animals in case an ice or snow storm hits. And don’t forget to stock up on food for yourself while you’re at it

Put Up Your Tools
Make sure to store tools and equipment such as water hoses, composters, and hand tools in a place that won’t get too cold or wet. Below zero temperatures can freeze your most important hobby farm equipment and may cause you to break the bank when you’re ready to use it again in the spring.

Insulate Pipes
After you’ve stored your equipment, protect exposed pipes and prevent them from freezing by wrapping them with heat tape or insulation to avoid any breaking – because that’s the last thing you want to happen during a blizzard!

Read more: Hobby Farms 101: Getting Started