It was a cold and wet week at the Stiles Farm. The week got off to a slow start and we did some minor fence repairs around the farm before they became an issue in case cows become more stressed for food later this winter. Throughout the week I worked on some plans to work our herds and possible situations for culling cows, getting replacement heifers, and possibly new bulls. I’m working on the economics side and consulting with some of our extensions specialists to figure out the best plan for the farm. On Tuesday I attended an extension crops committee meeting with Ryan and listened to different speakers that are experts in their field talk about different issues planting, growing, and harvesting cotton, corn, wheat, and grain. Some of the speakers talked about economics, regulations on chemical applications that farmers must follow, pests and issues that may damage their crops, and the outlook for commodity prices. Later in the week as it dried off we were able to drive around the farm and fed hay to some of the herds that needed it. On Sunday we had cows get out, which was a tough, but good learning experience on how to get them back into the pasture and 
minimize any damage to the cows, the farm, or people.
Our heifer calf Milkshake, who used to be a chocolate color, has now turned black as her winter coat comes in.
-Georgina Macias Fall 2018 Intern