Six tips on healthy, well and disease free flocks from Amy Hogue

Apr 11, 2023

As reported by Amy Hogue in the January-February 2023 issue of Small Farm Canada magazine:

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” – Benjamin Franklin

It’s clear Benjamin Franklin came from a farming family because his quote has stood the test of time and it’s as valid today as it was 200 years ago, particularly when it comes to farming. Preventing illness or disease from striking your farm is every farmer’s best defense, and the truth is any illness can spiral out of control quite quickly.

In these times of highly pathogen disease like avian influenza, these standards are more important than ever.

Keep your birds clean.
Keep your chicken coop and equipment clean.
Keep wild birds away.
Keep visitors at a distance.
Quarantine new birds before introducing them to your flock.
Be aware of the signs of illness and quarantine at first indication.

See the full story here.

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Source : Small Farm Canada

Video: Midwest Weather Shock: Flash Drought Turns Into Heavy Rain Threat This Week (2026 Forecast)

A rapidly changing Midwest weather pattern is unfolding in 2026 as areas that recently slipped into abnormal dryness and flash drought conditions are now facing the threat of heavy rain and repeated storm systems.

After a wet spring erased early drought conditions, regions across Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and northern Missouri have quickly dried out again since mid-to-late May. Soil moisture is dropping fast, and crops like corn and soybeans are beginning to feel the stress of rising temperatures and lack of consistent rainfall. Now, weather models show a major shift.

A developing system moving in from the Northern Plains is expected to bring multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms, with the potential for locally heavy rainfall across the Midwest. While some areas may miss out, others could finally see much-needed relief from the growing dryness. In this video, we break down:

Current drought conditions across the Midwest

Why a flash drought is developing quickly

Timing and path of incoming storm systems

Which states are most likely to see heavy rain

How long this wet pattern could last

Will this rain end the drought or create new flooding risks? Watch the full forecast to find out.