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The importance of consistency – The Natural Horseman
By Steve Stevens
Consistency is the secret to training horses. If you can’t be consistent, what can you do? This time of year, when it can rain every couple of days…when spring storms come as often as the mailman…what can we do? I think it is important to know how to get the most out of your time during inconsistency. For some, all you can do is the best you can do. We need to understand and allow our horses to make more mistakes during these time periods.
We need to try not to get frustrated with the horse when he is only being worked every other couple of days. The best use of your time, I truly believe, is to find a patch of at least three days in a row. The first day you get the rust and edge off. The second, you start back on your training program. The third day, your horse will really be paying attention and ready to learn.
When you have one day of work, four days off, then two days on and three days off, et cetera, you never have the chance to get the best of the horse’s mind. If you really only have a day here and a day there, I think it is essential to focus on what is important. Really focus on foundation. Work more on the basics, like good stops and forward motion.
Don’t spend this valuable time working on tricks and flying lead changes. That will be there when you have time for more consistency. Lots of times, when we feel limited on time to train, we want to focus on the advanced. That would be like asking a sprinter to run the 100 meter dash without stretching. So what can happen when skipping the fundamentals is that we will push too hard and get into a fight with our horse. Then we lose more time trying to correct that.
Remember that when we are talking about the horse, we want to think ahead and set everything up for success. At the end of the day don’t beat yourself up about the limited time. Be fair to yourself and fair to your horse. And take advantage of every moment you have with your horse. Sometimes when time is limited we appreciate it more. In the words of one of my favorite country singers, Gary Allan- “Every storm runs out of rain.” Be Safe!
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Being A Woman In The Outdoor Industry
By Emily Gleason
The outdoor, hunting, and fishing industries have long been perceived traditionally as a male-dominated realm. However, as societal norms shift, the experiences of women in these industries have been increasingly coming to the forefront. Being a woman in the outdoor industry today is a complex blend of passion, perseverance, and community, marked by both challenges and triumphs.
Women who hunt or engage in outdoor activities frequently find themselves confronting preconceived notions about their capabilities and interests. Many of us have experienced skepticism or outright disbelief when we express our enthusiasm for hunting or other outdoor activities.
Despite these stereotypes, women are increasingly challenging and redefining what it means to be involved in these activities. Female hunters and outdoor enthusiasts are not only participating but excelling in such skills. They contribute unique perspectives and insights to the hunting community, showcasing that passion for the outdoors knows no gender.
To read more, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
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Winecup
By Norman Winter
It’s easy for us to take for granted the multiple forbs that are growing throughout our North Texas and Oklahoma grazing lands. They play an important part in the health of our soils and of our livestock, and we should be aware of how they fit in our grazing environment.
Winecup is one of the forbs that many of us can recognize. There are both annual and perennial species, and of significant numbers in our area is Trailing winecup, which is a perennial.
To learn more, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
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Miss North Texas Fair & Rodeo
By Hannah Claxton | Editor
The North Texas Fair and Rodeo, held annually in Denton, Texas, has a rich history that dates back to 1928. Originally conceived as a small agricultural fair, it was organized to showcase the region’s farming and ranching heritage while promoting local businesses and community engagement.
The fair quickly gained popularity, and by 1958, it incorporated a rodeo, which became a central feature of the event. The rodeo added an exciting element to the fair, drawing competitors and spectators from across the region to witness events like bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling. Over the years, the fair grew in size and scope, expanding to include live entertainment, carnival rides, livestock shows, and various exhibitions celebrating North Texas culture.
Today, the North Texas Fair and Rodeo has become one of the largest and most anticipated events in the region, attracting thousands of visitors each August. It remains true to its roots, continuing to celebrate the region’s agricultural and ranching heritage while incorporating modern elements such as concerts, arts and crafts, and food vendors.
The rodeo, which is now a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association sanctioned event, draws top-tier competitors from across the state- both in the arena and for the accompanying rodeo queen contest.
To learn more about Miss North Texas Fair & Rodeo, pick up a copy of the January edition of North Texas Farm & Ranch magazine, available digitally and in print. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
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