Jim and John, Howell Farm's new oxen, are a team of 4-year-old Shorthorns trained in Poland, Maine.
Farmer Rob's report on their first trip around the farm last week:
"Today was their first time in the yoke here, pulling the cart. A fairly idle winter, new surroundings, and a cold breezy morning made for a very fast walk. They would probably benefit from some time pulling a harrow in plowed ground to settle them down a little."
Since this first trip, Farmer Rob has found a better fitting yoke for the team, and is awaiting some new bows. The team has continued to pull the cart around the farm, picking up and delivering firewood. Farmer Rob reports that he and the team are looking forward to some heavier pulling:
"I'd say we were chomping at the bit to try some plowing, but the oxen don't have bits," he said.
(photos above by Jeff Kelley and Intern Virgina.)
Farmer Rob's report on their first trip around the farm last week:
"Today was their first time in the yoke here, pulling the cart. A fairly idle winter, new surroundings, and a cold breezy morning made for a very fast walk. They would probably benefit from some time pulling a harrow in plowed ground to settle them down a little."
Since this first trip, Farmer Rob has found a better fitting yoke for the team, and is awaiting some new bows. The team has continued to pull the cart around the farm, picking up and delivering firewood. Farmer Rob reports that he and the team are looking forward to some heavier pulling:
"I'd say we were chomping at the bit to try some plowing, but the oxen don't have bits," he said.
(photos above by Jeff Kelley and Intern Virgina.)
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