CONTENTS
HORSE SENSE
12
The appeal of donkeys has endured for thousands of years, and their usefulness is well documented, but they may not be a fit for every homestead.
FEATURE
16
Agriculture offers something many veterans crave after service: purpose, ownership, and a way to keep contributing. It also comes with real challenges.
FARM & FLOCK
6
Several foods from the Thanksgiving kitchen can be shared with your flock, providing enrichment and reducing food waste.
10
Some livestock guardian dogs may be usually suited for outdoor work, but it’ s still vital to manage based on their needs and the weather conditions.
HOMESTEAD HOW-TO
18
Preparing for winter is a year-round task, and breaking down the to-do list helps take some of the stress out of the season.
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
20
The right snow removal equipment can help clear accumulated snow and keep key areas around the property usable through the season.
From the Editor’ s Desk
Dear AcreageLife readers,
This time of year is a good chance to slow down and appreciate the things that can get lost in the shuffle of everyday life. A meal shared with family, a well-fed flock, a productive day outside, or even a quiet morning can be enough to remind us why this way of life is worth the work that comes with it.
Thanksgiving gives us an especially good reason to think about where our food comes from, the land that provides it, and the people who help make it possible. It can be as simple as putting homegrown ingredients on the table or finding a use for scraps that might otherwise go to waste. This month also gives us a chance to recognize our veterans and the many ways they continue to serve their communities. For some, agriculture offers a new sense of purpose and a place to put hard-earned skills to work. Community, after all, has always been an important part of both agriculture and homesteading.
As the year begins to wind down, there is plenty to be thankful for, and plenty of good work, good company, and good moments still ahead.
— The AcreageLife Editorial Team
Vol. 25 No. 11 November 2026
Publisher Catalyst Communications Network
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