farm dog blog 04.09.20

At this point in time, life on the farm (like almost everywhere else) is especially quiet! 

Jill & Peter are handling the morning chores while Stephanie, Shawn, and Max (when he can be convinced  (or bribed) to help out) are handling the evening chores.  Operating on opposite schedules isn't ideal, but it's in everyone's best interest and it's temporary.  All things considered, we will count ourselves among the lucky ones to have been able to adjust to the changes required to slow the spread of COVID-19 without too many hardships.  We seem to have settled into the new routine & it gives us all a good reason to get outside everyday.

What is most frustrating right now is...

trying to anticipate how our plans for the spring and summer will need to be adjusted if the pandemic-related restrictions remain in effect (or become more restrictive) in May, June, July, or later into the summer/fall.  We are trying to find the right balance between optimism and skepticism to be productive and prepared for Plan B, C, D... Z.  

We were looking forward to welcoming several new humans (leasers) on May 1st, having regular group lessons,  getting out to island horse shows, and hosting a fun new training show series here at Rassicot with our partners from Star Gazer Farm.  

Unfortunately, as a result of the current circumstances, Rassicot Farm will:

• limit access to the barn to staff (family) only 
• provide disinfecting sprays at all outdoor touch-points (gate handles, taps, etc.)
• establish outdoor tack/equipment storage & ties for individual boarders/leasers
• schedule individual visitation times (limited to 3x/week)
• delay the start of group riding lessons

Unfortunately, we also expect that many early season horse shows across the country, and on the island, will be forced to cancel. 

The first show in our new series was not scheduled until early July, however, we have made the difficult decision to cancel it now.  This will allow us to focus our efforts and optimism on being able to forge ahead with the shows in August, September & October.  The details of the show series will be released soon - and we hope that it will give other island equestrians a reason to remain optimistic too.  The possibility of a three-show series certainly gives us hope that better (warmer) days are ahead!  

Our focus is turning to plant life as the growing season is fast approaching.  We will be selling composted manure and topsoil (to customers who are able to adhere to social distancing protocols).  We also have 55 acres of hay and will be baling small square bales and 4x5 round bales.  (Thanks to returning customers & some new farmers in the area, we have already sold out for advance hay orders!)

We will not squander the opportunity to work on the endless list of farm projects.  At the top of the list this year will be fencing the pastures & a new grass arena, improving the soil nutrients in the hay fields, adding a new shelter, and preparing for the addition of some small livestock.  We will also continue to do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19 by continuing to review our operations, limiting human interactions, implementing appropriate measures to maintain safe distances & disinfect surfaces.  

We know that better days are ahead and that we will eventually be able to welcome you back to the farm.  Until then, you can stay connected with us on social media and I'll keep holding down the fort!  

Yours ever-so-truly, 
 
Jasper
Communications Manager... Top Dog... Welcoming Committee Chairpup