How to Feed Hay Through the Gate | Volunteer Training with Sarah Grosvenor & Bill Craumer

How to Feed Hay Through the Gate | Volunteer Training with Sarah Grosvenor & Bill Craumer

How to Feed Hay Through the Gate – Volunteer Training Video | Farm Best Practices with Sarah Grosvenor

Welcome to the pasture! 🐄 In this quick instructional video, our Executive Director, Sarah Grosvenor, teams up with dedicated farm volunteer Bill Craumer to walk you through an updated and improved method for feeding hay to our cows through the gate.

This new technique is designed to make life easier—for you and the cows. By feeding hay through the gate instead of tossing it over the fence or placing it directly in the field, we:

Keep hay cleaner by minimizing contact with manure

Make cleanup more efficient (less hay trampled, less waste)

Improve overall cow health by protecting their feed

Reduce the mess in the pasture and around feeding areas

It’s a simple change with a big impact—and we’re so glad you’re here to learn it!

This video is part of our ongoing effort to provide clear, visual training materials for current and incoming volunteers. Whether you’re brand new to the farm or a seasoned hand looking to refresh your routine, this walkthrough will get you up to speed on one of our key daily tasks.

💡 Tips to Keep in Mind While Watching:

Notice how Sarah places the hay through the gate—this keeps the feeding zone tidy.

Watch Bill’s positioning as he supports the task—teamwork matters!

Listen for helpful cues and common mistakes to avoid.

🛠️ Why This Matters:
Feeding practices directly affect cow wellbeing, farm cleanliness, and volunteer safety. By using this method, you’re helping build a more sustainable and efficient operation. Plus, you’re saving yourself a whole lot of pitchfork work. Win-win.

📋 For Volunteers:
Be sure to check the Communication Board before your shift if you have any questions. And remember—if you’re ever unsure, it’s always okay to ask!

📣 Like this video?
Let us know with a thumbs-up, and consider subscribing for more training clips, behind-the-scenes farm fun, and educational content from the field.

Thanks for helping us take great care of the animals, the land, and each other. 🌾

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