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Vol 16, Number 3, March 2026
(Becky Frye, Julia Ramsey, Maggie Smith, Michael Glos and Donn Hewes examine each cultivator brought to Northland Sheep Farm for the workshop and assist each other in the task of repairing the hundred year old machines. Marathon, NY
Photo Credit: Julianne Gauron Snow on the Road)
Welcome to the March Newsletter!
Tuning Up The McCormick Deering Cultivator
By: Michael Glos (Kingbird Farm)
It always amazes me that some of the horse equipment I use is likely close to 100 years old and is still working. My McCormick Deering cultivator(s) are no exception. This cultivator is very versatile and a pleasure to operate. I have tolerated a lot from my cultivator over the years just assuming that since it was old that I shouldn’t expect much more from it. Although not every individual machine has stood the test of time, some routine maintenance and repair can keep many working for another generation or more.
Last March a group of teamsters assembled at Northland Sheep Farm to spend two days working on cultivators. I brought two that I thought were fully functional and didn’t need much. Maggie Smith brought hers, that while functional, needed some work. Becky Frye worked to make one cultivator out of the half a dozen non-functioning “parts” cultivators she had parked outside.
As the wind blew and the snow fell outside, six of us worked together to take the wobble out of the wheels and make the many levers move again. Wheels were scavenged from parts machines and new springs and washers were installed. We even built a new metal tongue so the cultivator designed for larger breeds would work better with my smaller horses (Fjords).
(Shovels and Discs set up for potato hilling.
Photo Credit: Michael Glos.
(Michael Glos and his Norwegian Fjords hill potatoes with his recently tuned up sulky cultivator.
Photo Credit: Michael Glos.)
We will be doing it again on April 4th and 5th at Northland Sheep Dairy, Marathon, NY and I invite you to join us. Visit www.teamsterschool.com for more information.
(Troy with Bruno as a calf in 2020.
Photo Credit: Anna Knapp-Peck.)
Learning from Bruno- The Process of Training an Older Animal
By Anna Knapp-Peck
Bruno came into my life in December of 2020. It was the middle of the pandemic and that was a rough time for my kids, especially my son Troy. He’s a social guy and very active in sports. The loss of contact with his friends and teammates was hard. One day, while he was supposed to be doing remote work, he found a calf for sale on a buy/sell group. He asked if we could get him, expecting me to say no. Occasionally, I say yes, and we went on a two-hour road trip to get a weaned Holstein steer with poor conformation.
Troy taught Bruno to lead some and spent a lot of time with him during that first year. Then the pandemic was over, and life resumed. Troy finished high school and went to college and Bruno was left out to pasture. Eventually Troy moved into his own place, and the question of what to do with Bruno had to be decided. I acquired a four-year-old steer with no education. Bruno and I went back to school.
The first thing I realized was that working with an older animal needed a different approach than I use for training calves. The first few months were spent tying Bruno to a tree and putting the harness on and taking it off. He learned to be comfortable with the weight of the harness and trace chains making noise and bumping his legs. He began to wait at the gate, and liked being groomed and eating hay while wearing the harness.
After Bruno became comfortable with the equipment, we took walks around the pasture wearing the harness. These walks helped teach him and reinforce the basic commands, ‘whoa’ being the most important. I always work with him in a fenced area, if he gets away, he can’t hurt himself or others. He is a large animal, as much as I trust him, I am always cautious. I added a single tree on to the traces, so he would become accustomed to the noise.
Eventually I added a small car tire and then a small log. I didn’t use an ox goad or a whip while working with Bruno, just the halter. He became comfortable and a little complacent. He wouldn’t run away, but he didn’t always want to move either. I found that he likes horse treats, and I began using a practice dog trainer’s call luring. I put the treat in my hand, and he would follow the movement. After he pulled the log a distance he got the treat. That was just a training tool; I no longer use treats when I work with him. It was an effective method early on to get him to move forward.
With time I introduced the stone boat and the ox goad, and Bruno began the important work of clearing the pasture. We have no grass and feed hay year-round. The pasture was thickly forested when the fence was built, now the trees are dying, and the ground is covered with dead branches. I use Bruno to collect the branches on the stone boat and move them to a brush pile. The load is light for the size of the animal, but the work is meaningful.
(Bruno at work.
Photo Credit: Anna Knapp-Peck.)
I went into this process with few expectations and Bruno has surpassed them all. He is the biggest ox I have, but he is gentle and willing. He always tries to do what I ask. For liability reasons I don’t plan on taking him to off-farm events, he isn’t comfortable with new people. I have realistic goals for his progress. Bruno has taught me more than I have taught him. With patience and creativity older cattle can be trained to do useful work.
Welcome to the DAPMap!
This month, we are diving into our DAPMap, Club, Associations & Fair section!
NEW- Prommata - PROMMATA is a french non-profit organization wich support and encourage farm agriculture, through the development of modern draft animal uses , by carrying out research and innovation in Modern Animal Draft Agricultural Equipment (MADAE), by promoting animal traction, by offering as many people as possible equipment adapted to high-performance, agro-ecological farming, and by passing on our know-how through a wide range of practical training courses and international missions. You can contact them here.
B & B Carriage Service- We offer wagon rides to the local churches and other nonprofit organizations. Weddings, Anniversaries, and many types of farming... plowing, mowing and raking hay, harrowing, stalk cutters, etc. You can contact them here.
Vincent Bunch- Hobby farms and hay production. Contact them here.
European Brabant Registry of America- The mission of the European Brabant Registry of America is to preserve and maintain purebred European Brabants through the use of existing registry information, ancestry tracing and DNA profiles of imported European Brabants and their offspring, thereby providing enthusiasts and breeders the ability to search for and register purebred horses in North, Central and South America. Contact them here
Broken Yoke Ranch- Cattle farm, Oxen for work/movies. Contact them here.
Want to be featured on the map? Fill out the form here!
Committee Updates
Events
Planning for this year’s Field Days is well under way! This month we are smoothing out details for tent rentals, a potential dance floor and other down and dirty details! Coordinators have been assigned to their roles and applications are open for Teamsters and Presenters to apply. If you have animals and or something you’d like to bring to the table at this year’s Field Days, you can fill out the form here.
Communications
The Communications Committee is working out the details for the upcoming video project. We are reviewing applications and will begin to interview people for the role of web designer. The committee is also improving the process of putting out the newsletter, and planning for upcoming events at the World Draft Cattle Symposium and Common Ground Fair.
Executive
This month the Executive Committee hired three new people to work with us on various projects.
We now have a videographer working with us to produce innovative educational content featuring members of our organization. We also brought on a podcast producer who will help us put more episodes out there...we know many of you have been waiting for them impatiently!
We also welcomed a project manager who has already been putting a lot of work into making the organization better, especially when it comes to communications and backing up our shared drive (and the million folders and pictures in it).
While this organization already has many years under its belt, the amount of information we’ve gathered over time has grown exponentially. Because of that, a bit of cleaning up and organizing is definitely needed.
Education
The Education committee is working on developing resources and support for member-led educational opportunities as well as exploring partnership opportunities with other educational facilities later this year.
ART SUBMISSION DEADLINE: April 23, 2026
Submit your art now, we love to see it!!
Classifieds
Horse Teamster / Farm Hand
Sanborn Mills Farm
7097 Sanborn Road • Loudon, NH 03307
Position Overview:
Sanborn Mills Farm seeks a highly skilled and experienced Horse Teamster & Working Farm Operator who brings their own well‑trained draft horse team. This mission‑critical role supports the farm’s agricultural, forestry, and educational programs through the safe and effective use of horse‑drawn equipment. The teamster also contributes to broader farm operations beyond horse work and serves as a core member of the Farm Team. Work includes field preparation, logging, transportation, and public‑facing activities such as wagon rides, sleigh rides, and special events, as well as routine farm tasks—garden work, fencing, animal chores, and seasonal projects completed without horses.
The ideal candidate demonstrates a deep commitment to animal welfare, strong situational awareness, and the ability to assess and respond to horses’ needs in real time. This role also supports the farm’s mission by teaching and mentoring students, interns, and guests in traditional horse‑powered skills. Experience in hay production, animal husbandry, and horticulture is required.
Key Responsibilities
Feed, water, and groom horses daily.
Drive draft horses for farm work, logging, wagon rides, sleigh rides, and special events.
Maintain tack and all related draft equipment in safe working order.
Provide a safe, enjoyable, and educational experience for students, visitors, and workshop participants.
Follow all safety protocols for animal handling and public interaction.
Assist the Farm Team with animal chores, garden maintenance, fencing projects, and hay production.
Perform grounds and seasonal maintenance.
Support cross‑department operations as needed.
Qualifications
Proven experience training and safely driving draft horses.
Working knowledge of both conventional and historical farming practices.
Ability to operate conventional farm and logging equipment (e.g., tractors, chainsaws).
Experience with animal husbandry for multiple species (chickens, sheep, pigs, cattle).
Mechanical and carpentry skills are preferred.
Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions.
Willingness to participate in rotating weekend coverage.
Experience teaching or engaging with the public through workshops, demonstrations, or outreach.
Work Environment & Schedule
This position is based on a historic, working farm that operates year‑round in a variety of weather conditions. Work is primarily outdoors and involves physical labor, interaction with animals, and engagement with students and visitors. The role requires comfort working around draft horses, farm equipment, uneven terrain, and active workshop environments.
The schedule varies seasonally based on farm needs, program activity, and weather. Flexibility is essential, including early mornings, occasional evenings, and rotating weekend shifts. Seasonal demands—such as haying, logging, and public events—may require additional hours. Sanborn Mills Farm maintains a “one mission, one team” culture where staff support one another across departments as needed.
Compensation & Horse Care Provision
Salary of $55,000 annually
Stalls and/or paddock housing for the draft team
Hay and grain consistent with farm standards
Routine veterinary care
Routine Farrier Services
Bedding
Participation in professional development opportunities
The provision of horse housing and care is contingent upon active employment and compliance with the Draft Horse Use & Liability Addendum.
Have you had a chance to listen to the Draft Animal Power Podcast? We have published several different episodes with interviews of people working with draft animals in the USA and Germany! Find us on any podcast listening platform and subscribe to be the first to know of a new episode!
Events Calendar
Have a draft animal related event you’d like to see on this calendar? Fill out our Events Submission Form and our volunteers will add your event to our calendar!
Oxen Driving
March 14th and 15nd at Tillers International, Scotts MI.
In this two-day beginner class, you will learn driving techniques, terminology, and the basics of cattle behavior & psychology. Practicing with our oxen teams with input from expert instructors will build your skills & confidence while working on a variety of field tasks on Tillers’ farm. Taught by Rob Collins. $445 DAPNet members get 10% off.
Visit https://tillersinternational.org/classes/ for more information.
Mower Rendezvous
March 21st and 22nd. Northland Sheep Dairy, Marathon, NY
A fun group activity where we all work together to repair McCormick Deering #7 and IH #9 Horse drawn mowers for the upcoming season. All the tools and skills we have are shared. $100 per participant. New parts are available for purchase.
Visit www.teamsterschool.com for more information.
Introduction to Working with Draft Cattle
March 22; September 27; 10:00 a.m. to approximately 4:00 p.m. Lorsch, Germany
Have you always wanted to get a taste of the world of training and working with draft cattle? Then this course is just right for you. The one-day course provides an introduction to cattle behavior, harness knowledge, training options, and suitable fields of work for draft cattle. In addition to theoretical sessions, the course offers the opportunity to gain initial practical experience with various training cattle.
Course fee: €100 per person, including meals and course materials
Registration: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de — Registration deadline: March 16 and September 20
March DAPChat with Angela Patterson
March 28th at 1pm on Zoom.
Veggie Farming with Oxen. Free for DAPNet members, suggested donation $5 for non-members.
More information at https://www.draftanimalpower.org/dap-chats
Cultivator Rendezvous
April 4th and 5th. Northland Sheep Dairy, Marathon, NY
A fun group activity where we all work together to repair McCormick Deering straddle row cultivators for the upcoming season. All the tools and skills we have are shared. $100 per participant. Visit www.teamsterschool.com for more information.
Southeast Teamster Gathering
April 10th, 11th, and 12th at Shaker Village in Harrodsburg KY
Connect, learn and share with teamsters in the Southeast and beyond! Visit https://www.draftanimalpower.org/gathering for more information.
Oxen Driving
April 11th and 12th at Tillers International, Scotts MI
In this two-day beginner class, you will learn driving techniques, terminology, and the basics of cattle behavior & psychology. Practicing with our oxen teams with input from expert instructors will build your skills & confidence while working on a variety of field tasks on Tillers’ farm. Taught by Rob Collins. $445 DAPNet members get 10% off. Visit https://tillersinternational.org/classes/ for more information.
Draft Animal: Oxen Basics
April 25th and 26th at Sanborn Mills, Loudon NH
Are you considering an oxen team for your farm but wondering where to start? Join us for a two-day workshop to learn the things you need know about bringing a pair home, finding the right equipment for them, and learning how to work them. Our experienced instructors will train you in a safe and productive environment. Taught by Ray Ramsey and Tyler Allen. $288. Visit https://sanbornmills.org/farm-garden/draft-animal-oxen-basics-4-25-26/ for more information.
"Relationship-Based Cattle Training" - a one-day course with Anne Wiltafsky
April 26, 10:00 a.m. to approximately 4:00 p.m. Lorsch, Germany
The focus of this one-day course is the relationship with the animal. Anne Wiltafsky explains her method of cattle training and illustrates, through targeted exercises, how to improve trust and respect—the two cornerstones of a balanced and resilient relationship with the animal. Only when both are present will movements towards humans function as well as movements away from humans. Participants will learn massage techniques and how to be mindful of their personal space.
Course fee: €100 per person, including meals and course materials
Registration: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de — Registration deadline: April 20
Women and LGBTQ+ Teamsters Gathering 2026
May 2nd and 3rd at Northland Sheep Farm in Marathon, NY.
This event is free to attend and loosely structured- we intend for this weekend to be about sharing our ideas and skills with each other.
Any questions can be emailed to: WQTGathering@protonmail.com
Beginning Teamster School
May 9th and 10th. Northland Sheep Dairy, Marathon, NY
This hands-on program will focus on putting the animals and teamsters to productive tasks. Small ratios of students to instructors ensures lots of participation and learning. We will mix new students and returning students. This program will include horse handling and care, harnessing and driving, How to safely hook to logs and other farm equipment. We often do seasonally appropriate work if the weather permits. We can teach each other all the basic skills, and work together to learn and have fun. $300 per new student. $150 for returning students.
Visit www.teamsterschool.com for more information.
Draft Horse Basics
May 14th and 15th at Tillers International, Scotts MI
In this two-day class for beginners, experienced teamsters share draft horse handling, hitching, and driving skills. Participants begin by building confidence with the gentle giants in the barn, brushing and harnessing. Handling skills are then honed with simple ground driving of a single horse progressing to plowing and other field work with a team. Taught by Rick Eshuis. $410 DAPNet members get 10% off.
Visit https://tillersinternational.org/classes/ for more information.
Draft Animal: Farm & Garden
May 16th and 17th at Sanborn Mills, Loudon NH
Are you ready to put your team or a team of oxen to work on the Farm and gardens? Then this is the workshop for you. Spend two full days with hands-on experience learning about plowing, discing, planting, cultivating, and cart work. Students will gain a working knowledge of draft equipment and a needed maintenance schedule to work properly. Taught by Ray Ramsey and Tyler Allen $288.
Visit https://sanbornmills.org/workshops/draft-animal-farm-garden/ for more information.
Draft Horse Clinic with Brandt Ainsworth and Daniel Dauphin
May 23rd and 24th at Dan Seewaldt Farm 3820 Hermitage Rd Warsaw NY 14569
This clinic is for all experience levels and will focus on horsemanship, communication, ground work, bitting, line fitting, harnessing and much more. All skill levels are welcome. Fun evening activities are also planned. Come and learn together! $225 for full participation both days. $40 to audit both days. For more information DM Brandt Ainsworth on Facebook, email stihlhorse@hotmail.com, or call 585-307-2972.
Draft Animal: Oxen Basics
June 6th and 7th at Sanborn Mills, Loudon NH
Are you considering an oxen team for your farm but wondering where to start? Join us for a two-day workshop to learn the things you need know about bringing a pair home, finding the right equipment for them, and learning how to work them. Our experienced instructors will train you in a safe and productive environment. Taught by Ray Ramsey and Tyler Allen. $288. Visit https://sanbornmills.org/farm-garden/draft-animal-oxen-basics-6-6-7/ for more information.
Oxen Basics Plus Yoke Making
June 21st-25th at Tillers International, Scotts MI
This comprehensive five-day class creates skills in driving, training, and yoking in a sequence of hands-on experiences. Enjoy well-trained oxen responding to your commands. Learn to select, team, and care for oxen. Use low-stress training to teach calves. Drive teams hitched to various loads and practice field tasks. Particpants will also make a yoke with hand tools. Beginner to intermediate class. Taught by Rob Collins and Tom Nehil. $675 DAPNet members get 10% off. Visit https://tillersinternational.org/classes/ for more information.
MODA 30th Anniversary Gathering AND Draft Cattle Symposium 2.0!
June 25th-28th at Tillers International in Scotts Michigan
Tillers International and the Center for Draft Cattle Research team up for The Ox Extravaganza you’ve been waiting for. More details to come but the preliminary schedule is to have formal presentations in Tillers’ Museum on Thursday and Friday afternoons, with field demonstrations and hands-on sessions on the farm both Friday morning and all day Saturday. For more information contact tillers@tillersinternational.org.
Horse Progress Days 2026
July 3rd and 4th in Arthur Illinois
Visit https://horseprogressdays.com/ for more information.
19th World Percheron Congress
July 6, 2026. Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul, MN
For more information, visit https://www.worldpercheroncongress.us/
Draft Animal Power Field Days 2026
October 2nd, 3rd, and 4th 2026 at Shelburne Farms in Shelburne VT.
Visit https://www.draftanimalpower.org/field-days for more information!
Introduction to Working with Draft Cattle
September 27; 10:00 a.m. to approximately 4:00 p.m. Lorsch, Germany
Have you always wanted to get a taste of the world of draft cattle training and work? Then this course is perfect for you. The one-day course covers an introduction to cattle behavior, harness knowledge, training options, and finally, suitable fields of work for draft cattle. In addition to theoretical sessions, the course offers the opportunity to gain initial practical experience with various training cattle.
Course fee: €100 per person, including meals and course materials
Registration: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de — Registration deadline: March 16 and September 20
Agricultural Work with Draft Cattle
October 11, 10:00 a.m. to approximately 4:00 p.m. Lorsch, Germany
Draft cattle can be used in a variety of ways in agriculture. Whether in arable farming, grassland management, or fruit growing, cattle can find suitable tasks. This one-day course aims to introduce the specific agricultural training of cattle and, above all, present the different fields of work and provide practical exercises. It will cover machinery and equipment operation, as well as aspects of occupational safety and economic efficiency.
Course fee: €100 per person, including meals and course materials
Registration: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de — Registration deadline: October 1
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Events Calendar
Have a draft animal related event you’d like to see on this calendar? Fill out our Events Submission Form and our volunteers will add your event to our calendar! (This could take a few days.)
Oxen Driving
March 14th and 15nd at Tillers International, Scotts MI.
In this two-day beginner class, you will learn driving techniques, terminology, and the basics of cattle behavior & psychology. Practicing with our oxen teams with input from expert instructors will build your skills & confidence while working on a variety of field tasks on Tillers’ farm. Taught by Rob Collins. $445 DAPNet members get 10% off.
Visit https://tillersinternational.org/classes/ for more information.
Mower Rendezvous
March 21st and 22nd. Northland Sheep Dairy, Marathon, NY
A fun group activity where we all work together to repair McCormick Deering #7 and IH #9 Horse drawn mowers for the upcoming season.All the tools and skills we have are shared. $100 per participant. New parts are available for purchase.
Visit www.teamsterschool.com for more information.
Introduction to Working with Draft Cattle
March 22 10:00 a.m. to approximately 4:00 p.m. at The Center for Draft Cattle Research in Lorsch, Germany. (This workshop will also run on September 27th)
Have you always wanted to get a taste of the world of training and working with draft cattle? Then this course is just right for you. The one-day course provides an introduction to cattle behavior, harness knowledge, training options, and suitable fields of work for draft cattle. In addition to theoretical sessions, the course offers the opportunity to gain initial practical experience with various training cattle.
Course fee: €100 per person, including meals and course materials
Registration: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de. Registration deadline March 16
Einführung in die Arbeit mit Zugrindern
22. März.; 27. September.; 10 Uhr bis ca. 16 Uhr
Wollten Sie schon immer einmal in die Welt der Zugrinderausbildung und -arbeit reinschnuppern? Dann ist dieses Kursangebot genau das richtige für Sie. In dem eintägigen Kurs geht es um eine Einführung in das Rinderverhalten, Geschirrkunde, Ausbildungsmöglichkeiten und schließlich auch um die passenden Arbeitsfelder für Zugrinder. Der Kurs bietet neben Theorieeinheiten vor allem auch die Möglichkeit, an verschiedenen Ausbildungsrindern erste praktische Erfahrungen zu sammeln.
Kurskosten: 100 EUR pro Person inkl. Verpflegung und Kursmaterialien
Anmeldung: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de — Anmeldeschluss: 16. März. und 20. September
Cultivator Rendezvous
April 4th and 5th. Northland Sheep Dairy, Marathon, NY
A fun group activity where we all work together to repair McCormick Deering straddle row cultivators for the upcoming season.All the tools and skills we have are shared. $100 per participant.
Visit www.teamsterschool.com for more information.
Southeast Teamster Gathering
April 10th, 11th, and 12th at Shaker Village in Harrodsburg KY
Connect learn and share with teamsters in the Southeast and beyond!
Visit https://www.draftanimalpower.org/gathering for more information.
Oxen Driving
April 11th and 12th at Tillers International, Scotts MI
In this two-day beginner class, you will learn driving techniques, terminology, and the basics of cattle behavior & psychology. Practicing with our oxen teams with input from expert instructors will build your skills & confidence while working on a variety of field tasks on Tillers’ farm. Taught by Rob Collins. $445 DAPNet members get 10% off.
Visit https://tillersinternational.org/classes/ for more information.
Green Mountain Draft Horse Association Driving Clinic
April 18th and 19th at Shelburne Farms, Shelburne VT
Spend 2 full days learning about the thrill of driving draft horses at this beginners clinic. $160 (includes GMDHA membership). Visit https://www.greenmountaindraft.org/driving-clinic.html for more information.
Draft Animal: Oxen Basics
April 25th and 26th at Sanborn Mills, Loudon NH
Are you considering an oxen team for your farm but wondering where to start? Join us for a two-day workshop to learn the things you need know about bringing a pair home, finding the right equipment for them, and learning how to work them. Our experienced instructors will train you in a safe and productive environment. Taught by Ray Ramsey and Tyler Allen. $288.
Visit https://sanbornmills.org/farm-garden/draft-animal-oxen-basics-4-25-26/ for more information.
"Beziehungsbasierte Rinderausbildung" ein Kurstag mit Anne Wiltafsky
Termin: 26.4., 10 Uhr bis ca. 16 Uhr
Im Fokus dieses Kurstages steht die Beziehung zum Tier. Anne Wiltafsky erklärt ihre Methode der Rinderausbildung und veranschaulicht anhand gezielter Übungen, wie sich Vertrauen und Respekt, die beiden Grundsäulen einer ausgeglichenen und belastbaren Beziehung zum Tier, verbessern lassen. Denn nur wenn beides gegeben ist, funktionieren die Bewegungen zum Menschen hin, ebenso gut wie die Bewegungen vom Menschen weg. Gelernt werden die Arbeit mit Massage und das Achten auf den eigenen Raum.
Kurskosten: 100 EUR pro Person inkl. Verpflegung und Kursmaterialien
Anmeldung: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de — Anmeldeschluss: 20.4.
"Relationship-Based Cattle Training" - a one-day course with Anne Wiltafsky
Date: April 26, 10:00 a.m. to approximately 4:00 p.m. at The Center for Draft Cattle Research in Lorsch, Germany.
The focus of this one-day course is the relationship with the animal. Anne Wiltafsky explains her method of cattle training and illustrates, through targeted exercises, how to improve trust and respect—the two cornerstones of a balanced and resilient relationship with the animal. Only when both are present will movements towards humans function as well as movements away from humans. Participants will learn massage techniques and how to be mindful of their personal space.
Course fee: €100 per person, including meals and course materials
Registration: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de . Registration deadline: April 20
Beginning Teamster School
May 9th and 10th. Northland Sheep Dairy, Marathon, NY
This hands-on program will focus on putting the animals and teamsters to productive tasks. Small ratios of students to instructors ensures lots of participation and learning. We will mix new students and returning students. This program will include horse handling and care, harnessing and driving, How to safely hook to logs and other farm equipment. We often do seasonally appropriate work if the weather permits. We can teach each other all the basic skills, and work together to learn and have fun. $300 per new student. $150 for returning students.
Visit www.teamsterschool.com for more information.
Draft Horse Basics
May 14th and 15th at Tillers International, Scotts MI
In this two-day class for beginners, experienced teamsters share draft horse handling, hitching, and driving skills. Participants begin by building confidence with the gentle giants in the barn, brushing and harnessing. Handling skills are then honed with simple ground driving of a single horse progressing to plowing and other field work with a team. Taught by Rick Eshuis. $410 DAPNet members get 10% off.
Visit https://tillersinternational.org/classes/ for more information.
Draft Animal: Farm & Garden
May 16th and 17th at Sanborn Mills, Loudon NH
Are you ready to put your team or a team of oxen to work on the Farm and gardens? Then this is the workshop for you. Spend two full days with hands-on experience learning about plowing, discing, planting, cultivating, and cart work. Students will gain a working knowledge of draft equipment and a needed maintenance schedule to work properly. Taught by Ray Ramsey and Tyler Allen $288.
Visit https://sanbornmills.org/workshops/draft-animal-farm-garden/ for more information.
Draft Horse Clinic with Brandt Ainsworth and Daniel Dauphin
May 23rd and 24th at Dan Seewaldt Farm 3820 Hermitage Rd Warsaw NY 14569
This clinic is for all experience levels and will focus on horsemanship, communication, ground work, bitting, line fitting, harnessing and much more. All skill levels are welcome. Fun evening activities are also planned. Come and learn together! $225 for full participation both days. $40 to audit both days.
For more information DM Brandt Ainsworth on Facebook, email stihlhorse@hotmail.com, or call 585-307-2972
Draft Animal: Oxen Basics
June 6th and 7th at Sanborn Mills, Loudon NH
Are you considering an oxen team for your farm but wondering where to start? Join us for a two-day workshop to learn the things you need know about bringing a pair home, finding the right equipment for them, and learning how to work them. Our experienced instructors will train you in a safe and productive environment. Taught by Ray Ramsey and Tyler Allen. $288.
Visit https://sanbornmills.org/farm-garden/draft-animal-oxen-basics-6-6-7/ for more information.
Logging Summer Camp - Tømmertræks Sommerlejr
June 1st - June 7th at Holtegårdsvej 6, 9330 Dronninglund, North Denmark
We will be hosting the very first Logging Summer Camp in Denmark! Focus will be horse welfare and community. We will make campfires, share knowledge and stories, have some good laughs. There will be hands-on-workshops with the horses and teaching and learning with a Norwegian teacher. Lastly we will focus on the horses’ well being and also connecting and socializing with them. Workshop information will be presented in English and German as well.
For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584131758325 or email Katalina Lindner-Kallehauge at katalina1@gmx.net
Oxen Basics Plus Yoke Making
June 21st-25th at Tillers International, Scotts MI
This comprehensive five-day class creates skills in driving, training, and yoking in a sequence of hands-on experiences. Enjoy well-trained oxen responding to your commands. Learn to select, team, and care for oxen. Use low-stress training to teach calves. Drive teams hitched to various loads and practice field tasks. Particpants will also make a yoke with hand tools. Beginner to intermediate class. Taught by Rob Collins and Tom Nehil. $675 DAPNet members get 10% off.
Visit https://tillersinternational.org/classes/ for more information.
MODA 30th Anniversary Gathering AND Draft Cattle Symposium 2.0!
June 25th-28th at Tillers International in Scotts Michigan
Tillers International and the Center for Draft Cattle Research team up for The Ox Extravaganza you’ve been waiting for. More details to come but the preliminary schedule is to have formal presentations in Tillers’ Museum on Thursday and Friday afternoons, with field demonstrations and hands-on sessions on the farm both Friday morning and all day Saturday. For more information contact tillers@tillersinternational.org.
Horse Progress Days 2026
July 3rd and 4th in Arthur Illinois
Visit https://horseprogressdays.com/ for more information.
19th World Percheron Congress
July 6, 2026. Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul, MN
For more information, visit https://www.worldpercheroncongress.us/
Draft Animal Power Field Days
October 2nd, 3rd, and 4th 2026 at Shelburne Farms in Shelburne VT.
Visit https://www.draftanimalpower.org/field-days for more information!
Introduction to Working with Draft Cattle
September 27; 10:00 a.m. to approximately 4:00 p.m. at the Center for Draft Cattle Research in Lorsch, Germany
Have you always wanted to get a taste of the world of training and working with draft cattle? Then this course is just right for you. The one-day course provides an introduction to cattle behavior, harness knowledge, training options, and suitable fields of work for draft cattle. In addition to theoretical sessions, the course offers the opportunity to gain initial practical experience with various training cattle.
Course fee: €100 per person, including meals and course materials
Registration: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de . Registration deadline - September 20th.
Einführung in die Arbeit mit Zugrindern
22. März.; 27. September.; 10 Uhr bis ca. 16 Uhr
Wollten Sie schon immer einmal in die Welt der Zugrinderausbildung und -arbeit reinschnuppern? Dann ist dieses Kursangebot genau das richtige für Sie. In dem eintägigen Kurs geht es um eine Einführung in das Rinderverhalten, Geschirrkunde, Ausbildungsmöglichkeiten und schließlich auch um die passenden Arbeitsfelder für Zugrinder. Der Kurs bietet neben Theorieeinheiten vor allem auch die Möglichkeit, an verschiedenen Ausbildungsrindern erste praktische Erfahrungen zu sammeln.
Kurskosten: 100 EUR pro Person inkl. Verpflegung und Kursmaterialien
Anmeldung: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de — Anmeldeschluss: 16. März. und 20. September
Landwirtschaftliches Arbeiten mit Zugrindern
Termin: 11. Oktober, 10 Uhr bis ca. 16 Uhr
Zugrinder können vielseitig im Bereich Landwirtschaft eingesetzt werden. Sei es im Ackerbau, in der Grünlandwirtschaft oder im Obstanbau: überfall finden Rinder geeignete Aufgabenfelder. Das eintätige Kursangebot möchten neben einer Einführung in die spezifisch landwirtschaftliche Rinderausbildung vor allem die unterschiedlichen Arbeitsfelder vorstellen und praktische Übungen liefern. Es wird um Maschinen- und Geschirrkunde gehen aber auch um Aspekte der Arbeitssicherheit und Wirtschaftlichkeit.
Kurskosten: 100 EUR pro Person inkl. Verpflegung und Kursmaterialien
Anmeldung: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de — Anmeldeschluss: 01.10.
Hinweis: die vorherige Teilnahme am Einführungskurs ist empfehlenswert (insofern keine praktische Erfahrung mit Rindern besteht).
Agricultural Work with Draft Cattle
Date: October 11, 10:00 a.m. to approximately 4:00 p.m. at the Center for Draft Cattle Research in Lorsch, Germany.
Draft cattle can be used in a variety of ways in agriculture. Whether in arable farming, grassland management, or fruit growing, cattle can find suitable tasks. This one-day course aims to introduce the specific agricultural training of cattle and, above all, present the different fields of work and provide practical exercises. It will cover machinery and equipment operation, as well as aspects of occupational safety and economic efficiency.
Note: Prior participation in the introductory course is recommended (unless you have practical experience with cattle).
Course fee: €100 per person, including meals and course materials
Registration: c.kropp@kloster-lorsch.de . Registration deadline: October 1st.
Pferde Stark
Am 28. und 29. August 2027 wird es wieder soweit sein, und auf dem Gelände von Schloss und Gut Wendlinghausen in Dörentrup werden Tausende Gäste aus dem In- und Ausland gemeinsam das nächste große Fest der Arbeitspferde feiern! https://www.pferdestark.net/?fbclid=IwY2xjawQkxYhleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBkbUJiTUJxVFJpRWR3UEN4c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHqmvkTVQNu-LNuTuFftCq0arPl-T-jnVTC9L2hdzT-wTlzAyIGHwvrBkxf6H_aem_fEA_yg4hO0nWTNaJTj_n1g