We go through about 20 tons of hay a year, or more depending on animals and weather- that's 700-800 bales a year. We now buy Canadian hay to ensure it is DRY, which is very important [so the barn doesn't burn down from combusted hay, for one]. The Canadian hay is consistent in quality and size and we find better quality, and the the animals don't waste it. We had trouble with much of the local hay getting consistent hay, and dry hay.

A bale of hay right now is 12.50, which is higher than local, but it weighs more and is dry and consistent. So far, the tariff situation hasn't raised that price, but we can't be sure it won't go up.

Hay is so important to gu health in all the animals. All our animals are supplemented with feeds, but hay is a vital part of their diet and we do not ever want to skimp on hay.

With the Canadian hay, we have been buying it in 1-2 ton runs, due to storage. But for winter, we want to bring in more at once.

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About us:

Apifera is owned and operated by Katherine and Martyn Dunn. They have been doing this work since 2004. Martyn is also a landscaper and cares for the extensive gardens. He is key to maintaining the grounds, barns and everything needed to operate on the farm. Katherine is a writer/artist and shares stories and art inspired by the life and animals of Apifera. Her work often deals with grief and nature, with animals as the teachers.

Katherine is the sole caretaker of the animals. They do not take salaries. All donations go directly into the farm account.

Fall-Winter Campaign

Time to bring in as much hay as we can for winter