Farmers Union Mercantile & Shipping Association

03/17/2026

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! 🍀

Wishing everyone a day filled with luck and good cheer. 💚

03/07/2026

Don't forget to set your clocks forward. ⏰

Brighter evenings and more sunshine are finally on the way. ☀️🙌

03/04/2026

Hello, March! 🌿 ✨

A new month, a fresh start!

02/16/2026

Not sure if your animals are getting what they need this time of year?

Stop in for feed, supplements, and guidance to support healthy weight, energy, and condition as winter continues. 🙌

Good nutrition now sets the stage for a strong spring. 🌱🐴

01/13/2026

Hello, January! ❄️

A new year, a fresh start, and endless opportunities to care for the animals we love. 🐾

01/12/2026

Egg Slump Solutions: Boosting Production as Days Shorten 🐔🥚

As the days grow shorter in fall and winter, many flock owners notice a dip in egg production—a natural phenomenon known as the “egg slump.” But don’t worry! With a few strategic steps, you can keep your hens laying steadily even when daylight dwindles.

1️⃣ Understand the Cause
Hens are highly sensitive to daylight. Most breeds need 14–16 hours of light per day to maintain peak egg production. As natural daylight decreases, their reproductive cycle slows, leading to fewer eggs. This is normal—but manageable.

2️⃣ Optimize Light Exposure
💡 Artificial lighting: Introduce supplemental light in the coop early in the morning or late in the evening to maintain consistent 14–16 hour day length.
↗️ Avoid sudden changes: Gradually increase light duration over several days to prevent stress.

3️⃣ Feed for Production
Nutrition plays a huge role in keeping hens laying:
🐓 High-quality layer feed: Ensure your hens receive enough protein (16–18%) and essential vitamins and minerals.
🥚 Calcium and phosphorus: Critical for strong eggshells. Crushed oyster shell or mineral supplements help prevent soft-shell eggs.
⤴️ Energy boosters: Cold weather increases energy demands, so a small increase in feed can help offset production drops.

4️⃣ Keep Stress Low
Stress can quickly derail egg production:
🧹 Maintain a clean, comfortable coop with proper ventilation.
🦝 Protect hens from predators.
⤵️ Minimize sudden changes in routine, feed, or flock hierarchy.

5️⃣ Support Overall Health
Healthy hens lay better eggs:
🚰 Provide fresh water daily; consider warming water slightly in cold months.
📆 Continue regular disease prevention and deworming schedules.
➕ Consider immune-supporting supplements during seasonal transitions.

6️⃣ Monitor and Adjust
Keep records of laying patterns, feed consumption, and behavior. This will help you spot trends early and make adjustments before production dips too sharply.

🌟 Pro Tip: Some breeds are more sensitive to daylight than others. Heritage breeds often slow down faster in winter, while commercial hybrids may maintain production longer with supplemental light.

12/31/2025

Here’s to another year of hard work, care, and dedication to the animals we love. 🌟

Farm life isn’t easy, but it’s worth every early morning and every muddy boot. Thank you for giving your best all year long. ❤️

12/25/2025

12/24/2025

Wishing you peace, joy, and warm memories this holiday season. ✨

12/21/2025

Hello, Winter! Cozy nights, hot cocoa, and new beginnings are here. ❄️

12/20/2025

When pastures are covered in snow, hay takes center stage! 🌾

Did you know horses and livestock need more forage in winter to help maintain body temperature and energy?

A steady supply of clean, quality hay keeps them warm and happy through the cold months. ❄️