If you live in an area of the county prone to harsh winters, then you’re likely already aware that winter should never be underestimated. In recent years, we’ve seen areas that have typically avoided the worst winter has to offer being hit with unprecedented amounts of cold and snow. 

With so many more parts of the country experiencing the cold realities of wintertime, farmers in these areas need to understand what’s necessary to protect themselves as well as their farms. Failing to prepare for an especially cold winter could prove fatal for livestock and leave you with a lot of “catch-up” work come springtime.

Prepare the Soil

Taking some time to prep your soils in the fall can pay dividends come planting time in the spring. One easy way to replenish some of the nutrients in your soil before the ground freezes is through composting!

After saving up all of your compost over the course of the year, now is the time to put it to use! Spread your saved compost over your fields. The nutrients in the compost will revitalize your soils throughout the fall and winter, preparing them for you once the ground thaws in the spring.

Protect Livestock and Other Animals

Winter puts extra demands on your herd, so line up the essentials now. Secure a reliable freshwater source since natural options often freeze, plan for increased feed because animals burn more energy to stay warm, and ensure shelter is ready for severe cold. 

Cattle and horses may stay outside much of the season, but they’ll need a windbreak or barn when temperatures plunge; inspect for leaks or drafts, confirm heaters work, and make sure the space can reach acceptable temperatures for the animals inside.

Winter Equipment Storage

Tools left out in winter weather rust and deteriorate, so move them into an outbuilding or other dry space. Before hard freezes arrive, fully drain hoses, sprinklers, and any equipment that carries water so residual moisture doesn’t freeze and crack components, or delay you in early spring while you wait for a thaw.

Winterizing Tractors and Other Machinery

A little mechanical prep now keeps winter from sidelining your operation. Fully charge batteries for machines you’ll run through the season, and disconnect batteries on equipment that will sit until spring. For diesel engines, begin transitioning from Diesel #2 to Diesel #1 as temperatures drop; while #1 is less energy-dense, its lower cloud point makes it less likely to gel in the cold. Start blending early so residual #2 won’t cause issues when a sudden cold snap hits.

Gardens and Trees

Set garden beds and trees up now to save time later. Clear and tidy beds so they’re ready to plant once the ground warms, and consider pruning fruit trees in late fall or early winter when leaves are off and heat isn’t a factor. Putting in the work now will leave you better prepared for planting season in the spring.

Get Yourself Ready for Winter

Don’t forget the basics for you and your family. Stock up on cold-weather gear like heavy coats, gloves, and hats. Tackle needed repairs or maintenance now while conditions are manageable, and keep several days’ worth of canned food and essentials on hand so you’re covered if a blizzard or emergency keeps you homebound.

Winter can be unpredictable, even in regions that usually dodge the worst of it. With a little planning across soil, livestock, tools, equipment, and home essentials, you’ll protect what matters and hit the ground running in spring. 

If you have questions about prepping rural property for winter or planning improvements before next season, connect with your local National Land Realty Land Professional today!