10 Spring Ranch Chores: What Needs to Be Done Now

March 1, 2025 - By admin

10 Spring Ranch Chores: What Needs to Be Done Now

As the chill of winter fades and the first signs of spring emerge, ranchers and homesteaders know it’s time to roll up their sleeves and get to work. Spring is one of the busiest seasons on the ranch—it’s all about preparing the land, tending to livestock, and ensuring everything runs smoothly for the months ahead. Whether you’re an experienced homesteader or just getting started, having a solid checklist of spring ranch chores will set you up for success.

1. Inspect and Repair Fences and Gates

Winter can be harsh on fences, with snow, ice, and wind causing wear and tear. As spring arrives, it’s crucial to walk the perimeter of your property and check for:

Broken or loose fence posts
Sagging wire or missing boards
Rusty hinges and gate latches
Damage from fallen branches or wildlife

Make necessary repairs before your livestock starts exploring weak spots. A sturdy fence means fewer escapes and headaches later!

2. Prepare Pastures and Fields

Spring is the best time to assess your pastures and fields for the upcoming growing season. Here’s what you need to do:

Walk the land and look for bare patches or compacted soil that needs aeration.
Fertilize and overseed pastures to encourage healthy growth.
Remove any debris, fallen branches, or rocks that could damage equipment.
Check water troughs and irrigation systems to ensure they’re working properly.

Good pasture management in early spring ensures nutrient-rich grass for your livestock and a productive growing season for crops.

3. Get Livestock Ready for Warmer Weather

After a long winter, your animals will need extra attention to transition smoothly into spring. Some key tasks include:

Deworming and vaccinating livestock to prevent seasonal illnesses.
Shearing sheep before the weather gets too hot.
Checking hooves for signs of overgrowth, infection, or damage.
Monitoring weight and nutrition to ensure animals recover from winter stress.
Rotating pastures to prevent overgrazing and maintain soil health.

A little extra care now can prevent bigger health issues down the road. Healthy animals mean a thriving ranch!

4. Spring Cleaning the Barn and Outbuildings

Winter can leave barns and sheds cluttered with old hay, dust, and equipment that needs maintenance. Take a weekend to:

Clear out old bedding and replace it with fresh, dry material.
Sweep and disinfect stalls to keep your livestock healthy.
Organize tools, feed, and medical supplies for easy access.
Check for leaks, rodent damage, or mold that may have developed over winter.

A clean and organized workspace makes daily chores much easier—and reduces the risk of pests and disease in your barn.

5. Check and Maintain Equipment

From tractors to hand tools, everything on a ranch needs to be in top working condition before the busy spring and summer months. Make sure to:

Change oil and replace filters in tractors and mowers.
Sharpen blades on chainsaws, pruners, and other cutting tools.
Inspect tires, hydraulics, and fuel lines for wear and tear.
Test electric fencing, water pumps, and irrigation systems before you need them.

Pro tip: Keeping a maintenance log for each piece of equipment can help you stay on top of repairs year-round!

6. Plant Early Crops and Start a Garden

If you love fresh produce, early spring is the time to get planting! Depending on your location, you can start cool-season crops like:

Lettuce, spinach, and kale
Carrots, radishes, and beets
Peas and onions
Potatoes

For those with a greenhouse or indoor setup, start warm-weather crops like tomatoes, peppers, and squash indoors so they’ll be ready for transplanting later.

If you’re growing crops for your livestock, make sure to plan ahead for what grains, hay, or forage you’ll need for the year.

7. Pest Control & Predator Prevention

With warmer weather comes the return of flies, ticks, and predators looking for an easy meal. Get ahead of the problem by:

Installing fly traps and using natural deterrents around barns and animal enclosures.
Checking fences and chicken coops for weak points that might allow foxes, coyotes, or raccoons to sneak in.
Keeping feed storage areas tightly sealed to prevent rodent infestations.
Using livestock guardian animals like dogs or donkeys to keep predators at bay.

The earlier you handle pests and predators, the fewer problems you’ll have later in the season.

8. Prepare for Calving, Lambing, and Kidding Season Spring is baby season on many ranches!

If you’re expecting new arrivals, make sure to:

Set up clean, dry birthing areas.
Stock up on medical supplies like iodine, colostrum supplements, and bottle-feeding essentials.
Monitor pregnant animals closely for signs of labor.
Have a backup plan for emergencies, including a vet on call.

Bringing new life into the world is one of the most rewarding parts of ranching, but it requires preparation and care.

9. Plan and Schedule Seasonal Work

Ranch life never slows down, but organizing your tasks can help prevent feeling overwhelmed. Take time to create a schedule for:

Fence repairs (do a little each week rather than all at once)
Rotating livestock to fresh pastures
Planting and harvesting crops
Cleaning and organizing farm buildings

Use a whiteboard, planner, or even a digital app to track progress and keep your ranch running smoothly.

10. Take Time to Enjoy Spring on the Ranch

Yes, spring is a busy time—but it’s also one of the most beautiful and rewarding seasons to be outdoors. Between the longer days, new growth, and baby animals arriving, take a moment to:

Sit on the porch and watch the sunrise.
Listen to the sounds of nature waking up.
Appreciate the hard work you put into your ranch.
Enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and the satisfaction of a job well done.

Spring ranch chores may feel overwhelming at first, but staying ahead of maintenance, livestock care, and planting will set you up for a successful year ahead. With a solid plan and a little elbow grease, your ranch will be thriving in no time!

Final Thoughts

Spring is a season of renewal, growth, and fresh opportunities. Whether you’re fixing fences, tending to newborn livestock, or planting your first garden of the year, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of preparing your land and animals for the months ahead. Embrace the work, enjoy the process, and remember—the more you put into your ranch this spring, the more you’ll reap the rewards throughout the year.

What’s on your spring to-do list this year? Let me know in the comments below!