Fall Prep Made Simple: 3 Things Your Barn (and Herd) Need Before the Temps Drop

 Fall is sneaky. One day you’re swatting flies and baking in the August sun, and the next you’re pulling on a jacket, realizing your waterers are crusted with ice, and your pasture looks like it’s seen better days.

That’s why smart livestock owners don’t wait for the first frost — they prep now. The good news? A few simple steps can save you headaches (and money) later. Let’s break it down.

1. Get Your Pasture Ready for a Long Nap

Think of your pasture like a tired student after finals week. It’s worked hard all summer, and now it needs a reset. Overseeding in early fall helps fill in thin spots, boosts forage for spring, and keeps weeds from moving in.

• Pro tip: Choose a hardy seed mix that thrives in our climate (we can point you to the good stuff).

• Bonus: A well-fed pasture means healthier animals and less money spent on hay later.

2. Deworm and Mineral Up — Because Parasites Don’t Take Vacations

Fall is prime time to reset your herd’s parasite load before winter. A targeted dewormer plus the right mineral combo keeps your animals in top condition when nutrition gets tight.

• Horses: Deworm now, not mid-winter when parasites are laughing at you.

• Livestock: Mineral packs help boost immunity and fertility going into colder months.

If you’re not sure which products fit your herd, don’t worry — that’s why we’re here. We’ll walk you through it without the jargon.

3. Barn Cleaning: Your Future Self Will Thank You

Nobody wants to muck out stalls when it’s 25° and snowing sideways. Tackling a deep clean now makes winter chores faster, safer, and far less miserable.

• Clear out cobwebs (hello, fire hazards).

• Check doors, latches, and water systems before they freeze up.

• Fresh bedding + proper ventilation = healthier animals and a happier you.

It’s not glamorous, but it beats wrestling frozen hoses in the dark.

Ready to Tackle Fall Prep?

Prepping your pasture, herd, and barn doesn’t have to be overwhelming — especially when you’ve got a local team ready to help you choose the right seed, supplements, and supplies.

Stop by Eastern Sierra Feed this week, and let’s make sure you (and your animals) head into fall healthy, comfortable, and stress-free.

Because the only thing worse than forgetting to winterize? Explaining to your horse why their mineral tub is empty.