At Sawyer Creek Cattle Company, Winter Preparation Takes Place Year-Round

SHELL LAKE, WI — As winter settles in over the picturesque landscape of the Sawyer Creek Cattle farm, the Wabrowetz family and their farm hands are diligently engaged in a series of preparations to ensure the well-being of their livestock and the smooth operation of their farm.

The first steps in getting ready for the colder months are taken as early as spring. The team at Sawyer Creek Cattle focuses on securing a reliable hay supply, a crucial element in providing essential nutrition for their cattle during the winter. This planning helps guarantee that the animals will have access to sufficient feed when the snow blankets the fields.

Ensuring access to clean and unfrozen water is another priority for the farm. Sawyer Creek Cattle takes measures to safeguard water sources, preventing freezing and ensuring that their cattle have a continuous supply throughout the winter months. They use heat tape and have multiple winter waterers made by Miraco’s Mira-Fount that work wonders.

Fields play a pivotal role in the farm's operations, and as winter approaches, meticulous attention is given to their maintenance. The team undertakes necessary tasks such as scraping manure and spreading on fields to maintain a clean and healthy environment for the cattle. Additionally, storing hay in appropriate conditions becomes imperative to preserve its quality and nutritional value.

The farm store, the hub for meat sales and purchases, undergoes thorough preparations. Freezers are checked and stocked, heating systems are inspected, and yearly maintenance is performed to ensure the smooth functioning of the facilities. This ensures that the farm store remains operational and well-equipped throughout the winter season.

Water diversion strategies are implemented to manage the spring thaw effectively, preventing flooding and ensuring a smooth transition into the new season. This forward-thinking approach demonstrates the farm's commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

Finally, as a final line of defense, the team at Sawyer Creek Cattle takes measures to fortify the fencing around their property. This includes tightening fences, checking insulators, and raising bottom wires to enhance security and containment for the livestock.

Even as we are in the midst of a mild winter, Sawyer Creek Cattle’s comprehensive preparations showcase their dedication to the well-being of their cattle and the sustainability of their farm. Whenever the snow finally does accumulate and the temperature continues to drop, the community of Shell Lake and the surrounding region can rest assured that Sawyer Creek Cattle are well-prepared to weather the challenges of the season.

SAWYER CREEK CATTLE COMPANY is a small farm and store located in northwestern Wisconsin just outside of the small town of Shell Lake. Sawyer Creek Cattle Company’s mission is to provide healthy, all-natural food options while using sustainable practices to maintain the safety of our communities and earth. For more information, visit SawyerCreekCattle.com.