Julie Martin

Best Milk Cows For Central Texas

In Central Texas, the climate here demands a breed that not only thrives in heat but also offers good milk production with a rich butterfat content for your cream needs. Here's an in-depth look at several top breeds and crossbreeds, tailored to the unique challenges and benefits of ranching in Central Texas. Jersey Cows: The Creamy Choice Weather Adaptation: Jerseys...Read More

The Truth About Chicken: Inflation, Chilling Methods, Chemicals, and a Better Regenerative Approach

Hey there, stewards of the land and lovers of good food! Most of y'all know that we believe in transparency, especially when it comes to what's on our plates. Let's unravel the story behind how chickens are often processed, focusing on practices like water or saline inflation, the chilling methods, and the stark contrast between commercial and regenerative chicken farming....Read More

Agriculture Classes for Texas Homeschoolers

Are you a Texas homeschool educator looking to enrich your child’s experience with agricultural learning opportunities? The Texas Farm Bureau’s Farm from School Program offers an exceptional chance to explore agriculture, food systems, and the environment. This program is designed to bring the farm experience directly to your home through engaging, virtual lessons and interactive activities. This program is also...Read More

How to Maintain FDA Compliance When Writing About Holistic Health Solutions

In today’s landscape of holistic health solutions, whether discussing supplements, herbal remedies, homeopathy, or even energy-healing modalities, adhering to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) compliance guidelines is essential to keeping your business operational and avoiding potential legal action. Despite the traditional and natural foundations of these approaches, the FDA governs health claims about supplements, herbs, and homeopathic remedies, especially when...Read More

Pastured Beef Operations and Carbon Sequestration

In recent years, there’s been a surge in articles claiming that reducing beef consumption is crucial for combating climate change and promoting health, often promoting plant-based diets as the superior alternative. These articles are daftly misleading, oversimplifying complex issues like environmental sustainability, the nutritional value of meat, and the potential health implications of plant-based proteins like soy. The Carbon Cycle...Read More

The Dangers of Essential Oils: What Every Cat Owner Should Know

Essential oils have gained popularity for their aromatic and therapeutic benefits, but they pose significant risks for cats. Unlike humans and even some other pets, cats have unique metabolic pathways that make them particularly vulnerable to certain compounds found in essential oils. Understanding these dangers and making informed choices can help protect your feline friends. Why Are Essential Oils Dangerous...Read More

How to Raise Pigs: Beginner’s Guide to Paddock Setup, Feeding, and Care

Pigs bring a lot of benefits, from producing quality meat to helping manage the land sustainably. For us, bringing home a source of bacon that we can cure ourselves, plus always being stocked on chemical-free pork and lard is a necessary function of our homestead. We started this journey to provide the highest quality nourishment for our family, and pork...Read More

Recipes for Beef Bone Broth: Stovetop, Crockpot, and Instant Pot

Beef bone broth is a nutritious and flavorful base for many dishes. It’s rich in collagen, vitamins, and minerals, making it a staple in various cuisines. Here, we provide detailed recipes for beef bone broth, including stovetop, crockpot, and Instant Pot methods. Additionally, we offer variations for Texan, French, and Italian-style beef bone broths, with explanations behind each ingredient choice...Read More

Do Pigs Need a Wallow?

Pigs have a natural inclination to wallow, particularly in hot weather, to cool down and protect their skin from the sun. But when it comes to raising pigs on pasture or using paddock rotation systems, the question often arises: do pigs really need a wallow? The answer is yes, wallows are imperative for pigs, but managing them effectively requires careful...Read More

How to Use a Pressure Canner: A Comprehensive Guide

Pressure canning is an essential method for preserving low-acid foods like meats, vegetables, and broths. Unlike water bath canning, pressure canning reaches higher temperatures, ensuring food safety and that harmful bacteria are eliminated. This guide will teach you how to use a pressure canner, providing a step-by-step process for canning bone broth, meats, fish, vegetables, and beans. User manuals are...Read More