Description

Stories in this issue: 

• The Walipini Part 3 – Fine Tuning: Danielle Londrigan’s third article in her series on the underground greenhouse discusses some of the weaknesses of the design. The topics covered our insulation, test prevention, and the use of beneficial animal. Weaknesses in the retaining wall construction and ventilation were also discussed.
• Old Iron Fever Part 2: Ronnie Hartman visits Gene Loxtercampat his Sauk Centre, Minnesota. He has amassed a large collection of antique horsedrawn and stationary farm equipment that he has restored to safe working conditions with respect for historical accuracy. We have lots and lots of wonderful pictures with thorough descriptions of each piece.
• Growing Heritage Wheat Part 1 Heritage Wheat and Human Health: Charlie Tennessen gives information on what exactly defines “heritage” wheat and how it came about. Then he tackles the question of whether it is healthier for humans than modern wheat.
• Jerry Idee Beans: Jerry Hicks tells the story of his first garden and the special seeds he planted there. The seeds ancestors are still being planted in his garden in Kentucky and he shares with family in hopes it’s story will continue to inspire a “listening young boy”. A lovely reminiscence!
• Crossroad Cultivators’ Hydraulic Lift System: Crossroads Cultivators modifies the Nordell’s long lever on their cultivator with a hydraulic lift, which eases the strain on the operator’s body when preforming this repetitive action.
• “A Good Horse Doesn’t Come in a Bad Color” – Transitioning to Suffolks: Long-time contributor and Percheron owner/lover Ralph Rice explains his difficult decision, as well as his son’s, to replace them with Suffolk Horses.
• Attracting Pollinators: On the decline, pollinator populations need our support Hazel Freeman explains why our pollinator population is declining, who pollinators are and what can be done to help increase their populations. She gives us lists of plants to grow and how to create the habitats.
• Montana Women Teamsters: Jenifer Morrissey introduces us to a number of women teamsters who made their mark with Draft Horses whether farmers, teachers, mentors or trainers. These amazing women have all been inducted into the Montana Draft Horse Hall of Fame and Jenifer gives us a short bio of each one.
• Story of Conan – Training a Belgian: After losing two of their treasured American Brabants, an opportunity presents itself to the Julian family. Katrina Julian tells us about Conan, the purchase, transport and training of their “new” 8-year-old unbroke stud
• Doc Hammill at American Suffolk Horse Association Gathering: s the featured presenter at this annual event, Doc Hammill did a series of round pen sessions and a lecture on conformation as well as a question and answer session. Jenifer Morrissey gives us a rundown on some of Doc’s answers to questions on training draft horses. She also tells is about his methods for round pen sessions as demonstrated at this event.
• Six Suffolks and a Wagon: A restored Horner Band Wagon owned by Y Bar Hitch traveled, with its owners, from Colorado to St Louis for the ASHA Gathering. Jenifer Morrissey reports on the wagon’s history and the restoration undertaken by David Horner. She introduces Ken Spann and Val Barnica, who own Y Bar Hitch, and their experience breeding, showing, hitching and promoting the Suffolk horse.