That is my mantra as I get ready to head outside in the negative temperatures. Winter has fully set in here in Northern Michigan, and everyone is feeling the chill in the air. But even though we would much rather be cozy inside, the chores still need doing. Farmers are bedding down livestock, breaking ice in water troughs, and making those extra checks to keep the animals comfortable.

My husband Collin says, “Working with livestock in the winter is the most rewarding time for a farmer. The satisfaction to brave the weather and care for the lives of creatures under your charge gives one importance and pride. To successfully navigate the worst and best weather conditions is included in our job description. You are always one decision away from success or failure, but every winter you learn more to prepare for the next year.”

Out in snowy Lachine, Rachar Ruczynski and her family are anxiously waiting for two of their goats to give birth. Dolly and Violet are due to “kid” any wintery day and are being closely monitored. These babies’ birthdates were planned for this time of year for the special purpose of being shown at the Alpena County Fair as market projects.

When asked how she can tell when Dolly’s labor is beginning, Rachar says, “She’ll eat less. This is my number one sign. This doe always cleans up her hay. I’m hoping there’s two in there. I’m glad I know today before the cold spell comes in so I can get them in the stable with the heat barrel to help protect her and the babies from the cold.”

Courtesy Photo Here are chickens getting some exercise at Little Hill Farm in Posen. Adam and Lindsey Szumila started their farm in 2017 with their two children.

Goats often have twins and sometimes triplets, and the Ruczynskis are ready for action if the births need assistance. During kidding season, there are many sleepless nights and, for Rachar, missed sports games or meetings, “but healthy kids make it all worth it.”

To the north, in Posen, Adam and Lindsey Szumila of Little Hill Farm are preparing their 175 laying chickens for this bout of cold weather. What’s the most difficult part about having chickens in the winter?

Lindsey says, “Take your pick: frozen eggs, frozen chicken waterers, bored chickens, and lack of Vitamin D. Chickens don’t need heaters, but that doesn’t mean they don’t get cold. We adjust our chickens’ feed ration. Adjusting their feed helps them to burn more calories and stay warmer. A good structure is also important. We move our chickens into our stone barn for the winter months. We continue to add fresh straw to the bedding every day, creating heat and helping to absorb moisture. As for frozen eggs and water, this is where we are really fortunate in that we are almost always home. We collect eggs frequently during the morning hours and take out fresh water each time.”

The Szumilas keep their customers supplied with eggs all winter, and increase their flock numbers throughout the year.

On a farm, there’s no such thing as a snow day. Farm work doesn’t stop for weather, cancelled school, or holidays. In the brutal cold spells, producers are keeping cows fed, chickens watered, and goats checked. We’re happy to do it. We love what we do, but sometimes we have to remind ourselves why we live where the air hurts our face. Stay warm, my friends!

Courtesy Photo Abby Ruczynski is seen with her goat she raised at the Alpena County Fair.

Bryanna Beyer is a local farmer with a passion for educating others about agriculture. She and her husband Collin operate Beyer Farms in Alpena. To reach her, email beyer_farms@outlook.com.

Courtesy Photo Rachar Ruczynski holds a baby goat.