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Winter Prep Check: What Your Farm Still Needs Before January Hits

The holidays might be winding down, but winter sure isn’t done with us yet. Before the next cold front settles in, it’s worth taking a quick look around the farm to make sure everything’s ready. A few simple steps now can make chores a lot easier when the temperatures really drop.

1. Keep Feed and Bedding Stocked Up
When the weather turns rough, it’s always better to have plenty on hand. Make sure your bins and barrels are filled and your bedding supply is ready to go. Buchheit has you covered with feed, straw, and shavings to keep your animals warm, dry, and comfortable all winter long.

2. Check Your Water Setup
Frozen water lines can cause a lot of headaches this time of year. Take a few minutes to look over your hoses and troughs, and replace anything cracked or worn. Heated buckets and de-icers are worth every penny when the mornings hit below freezing.

3. Tighten Up the Barn
Walk through your barns and sheds to see where the wind sneaks in. A little weather stripping or a few new boards can make a big difference in keeping the cold out. It’s also a good time to check latches, hinges, and lights so everything’s in good working order.

4. Gear Up for Ice and Snow
Make sure your winter work gear is ready before the next storm hits. Good boots, warm gloves, and a solid shovel go a long way. Keep ice melt handy for walkways and gates, and make sure your tractor or four-wheeler is fueled up for those snowy mornings.

5. Winterize Your Vehicles and Equipment
Cold weather can be tough on engines and batteries. Take time to check your antifreeze levels, change out old wiper blades, and test your battery strength. Keep an eye on tire pressure, too—cold air can cause it to drop overnight. A few minutes of maintenance now can prevent big problems later

6. Plan for Cold Snaps
You never know when the temperature will take a sudden dip, so it helps to have a little extra feed and fuel tucked away. Having what you need on hand means you can focus on your chores instead of running to town when it’s bitter cold.

Before January rolls in, stop by your local Buchheit to pick up the essentials that will keep your farm running strong through the rest of winter. From feed and fencing to warm clothing and tools, we’ve got what you need to get through the cold with confidence.