Area farmers preserve old time fertilizing tradition

A small group of farmers from across the region gathered at the Bill and Jackie Doyle farm recently for an annual manure-spreading day, a tradition that continues to draw those committed to keeping older farming methods alive.
About a half-dozen draft horse teams pulled ground-driven manure spreaders across the fields equipment that operates literally by the turning of the wheels. The movement powers the chains and paddles that break apart and distribute the manure. It is a slow and steady process compared to modern tractor-powered spreaders, which can cover far more acres in a fraction of the time.
Still, those who gather at various farms across the region each fall, say the event serves a purpose.
For some, its an opportunity to keep their horses trained and working. Others say its a way to maintain equipment they used growing up. And for many, its a chance to preserve a piece of agricultural history that is disappearing as farms consolidate and technology becomes more efficient.
Manure spreading with draft teams was once standard practice across the region before mechanized equipment became the norm in the mid-20th century. Today, only a handful of operations continue using horse-drawn spreaders regularly.
The Doyle farm gathering is a consistent annual meet-up for those who still do. Organizers say the tradition will continue as long as there are teams to pull the spreaders and farmers willing to show up