While there have been some challenges and learning curves so far, I have greatly enjoyed my time as an intern!
One of the biggest challenges since starting this job has been time management and dealing with an irregular schedule. With two state specialists and an extension agent as my mentors, we attend many pasture walks and activities that require hours outside of the normal work day. It has definitely been a learning curve to make sure I am communicating with all of my mentors, family, and other responsibilities to assure I am following through and not over committing myself. Additionally, my summer classes for my university started this week. It’s been a nice summer break so far, but it’s time to set time aside and focus on my academics again.
A more recent learning curve has been the use and management of electric fencing with our sheep and cattle herds. When I first started this internship the animals were pretty simple to manage and didn’t need much attention outside of their daily routine. However, as time has passed, one of our herds has learned that they can jump over and run through our fence. It started with just one or two cows getting out. Now, on a daily basis, it seems only one or two sheep or cows are where they belong. Thankfully we have a permanent American wire fence to keep them contained and safe. This past week especially has been full of tedious work in the heat and sun fixing fences and adding more, and higher, fencing wires. It seems everyday they are getting smarter and beating us at our own game! We are continuing to make adjustments and hope to come up with a solution.
Other than the seemingly constant struggle to contain the animals, last week I had the opportunity to help the Washington County Extension Office with their 4H camp. This was probably my favorite thing that I have done so far during this internship! It was a HOT, but fun week watching the kids get to know one another and grow in their curiosity about agriculture. Not only was I able to assist in teaching the kids about ag, but I learned many new things myself! From learning about the waggle dance of a honey bee to seeing a robot milker in action, I gained new knowledge everyday. I hope in the future I get the opportunity to return to the 4H camp or other educational setting to teach people about ag.
One of the biggest challenges since starting this job has been time management and dealing with an irregular schedule. With two state specialists and an extension agent as my mentors, we attend many pasture walks and activities that require hours outside of the normal work day. It has definitely been a learning curve to make sure I am communicating with all of my mentors, family, and other responsibilities to assure I am following through and not over committing myself. Additionally, my summer classes for my university started this week. It’s been a nice summer break so far, but it’s time to set time aside and focus on my academics again.
A more recent learning curve has been the use and management of electric fencing with our sheep and cattle herds. When I first started this internship the animals were pretty simple to manage and didn’t need much attention outside of their daily routine. However, as time has passed, one of our herds has learned that they can jump over and run through our fence. It started with just one or two cows getting out. Now, on a daily basis, it seems only one or two sheep or cows are where they belong. Thankfully we have a permanent American wire fence to keep them contained and safe. This past week especially has been full of tedious work in the heat and sun fixing fences and adding more, and higher, fencing wires. It seems everyday they are getting smarter and beating us at our own game! We are continuing to make adjustments and hope to come up with a solution.
Other than the seemingly constant struggle to contain the animals, last week I had the opportunity to help the Washington County Extension Office with their 4H camp. This was probably my favorite thing that I have done so far during this internship! It was a HOT, but fun week watching the kids get to know one another and grow in their curiosity about agriculture. Not only was I able to assist in teaching the kids about ag, but I learned many new things myself! From learning about the waggle dance of a honey bee to seeing a robot milker in action, I gained new knowledge everyday. I hope in the future I get the opportunity to return to the 4H camp or other educational setting to teach people about ag.
This is me with two of the kids from the 4H day camp. This day we toured two gardens with the the master gardeners. The kids got to collect herbs and other plants and make a board to dry them.
This is another photo from the 4H camp. The kids had a great time learning about honey bees and got to cool down at the end of the day with water games.
As we walked the fence to check for faults or problem areas, we found this little caterpillar looking bug. Thought it looked really neat so I snapped a photo to try to identify it. I can't be sure, but it looks similar to the Banded Tussock Moth.
Wonderful post Nina - so glad you're having such a great experience and that your 4-H connection especially was so positive!!!
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