Winterizing the Farm: A Cold-Season Checklist from Rock Pillar Grounds

As the Ozarks settle into shorter days and colder nights, it’s time to shift gears from harvest hustle to winter prep. Winterizing your farm isn’t just about surviving the cold—it’s about setting the stage for a smooth, healthy start come spring. Here’s a list of what we do to button things up at Rock Pillar Grounds, from field to barn to farmhouse.

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🐄 Livestock Care & Shelter

 

• Stock up on feed and minerals—animals burn more energy in the winter & cold weather can prevent you from leaving your home

• Inspect barns and coops for drafts, leaks, and weak spots—reinforce as needed

• Deep clean goat barn & Deep-bed stalls and nesting boxes with straw or shavings for warmth and insulation

• Thorough scrubbing of water tanks before testing and installing tank heaters or de-icers to keep water flowing and prevent ice buildup

• Heat wrap pipes in the outdoor sink to prevent pipes from freezing in our milking area

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🧰 Equipment & Infrastructure

 

• Inspect fences, roofs and gutters for damage or blockages before snow hits

• Service tractors, mowers, and tools—change fluids, grease parts, and check batteries

• Store hand tools indoors to prevent rust and wear

• Organize your shop and feed room—you’ll thank yourself in January

• Prep snow removal gear (shovels, plows, salt) before the first flurries

• Inspect generator and ensure you have fuel and it is in working condition in case of ice storms or power outages.

• Refill all gas tanks for vehicles, generators and tractor.

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🏡 Farmhouse

 

• Label and rotate canned goods for easy access during cold spells

• Stock up on firewood, pantry staples, and herbal remedies

• Winterize windows and doors in your home and outbuildings

• Since we are on well water, no power = no water. So we make sure our water tanks are well stocked

• Check emergency supplies—flashlights, batteries, backup heat, and first aid

• Plan for downtime—use winter to review goals, learn a new skill, and dream up spring offerings

• Winter is also a time for reflection and rest—a chance to honor the slower rhythm while still tending to the roots of your farm’s legacy.

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 💬 Final Thoughts from the Porch

Winter prep isn’t glamorous, but it’s the kind of quiet work that keeps a farm running smooth. It’s about stewardship, foresight, and a little grit. Whether you’re tucking garlic into the soil or deep-cleaning the chicken coop, every task is a promise to the land—and to the season ahead.