four up as a training tool?

[bendube]

We just ordered a vertical evener from tillers, and we’re hoping to work two teams at once for heavy disc-harrowing, and perhaps plowing later on. At least initially, we’d be using two teamsters, one on each team.

We have a team of yearlings (Shorthorn), around 800-1000 lbs each, and an almost 11 year old team of Guernseys, about 1 ton each.

The Yearlings are very smart and willing but a little wild, as they haven’t been worked with consistently. The Guernseys are very calm, slow and steady.

Does anyone anticipate problems with working two teams at once with this size differential? Any tips on making this work more effectively?

Thanks,
Ben Dube
Cerridwen Farm
Green Mountain College

[Vicki]

I think it should not pose serious problems, especially having a driver for each team at first. Folks often hitch teams of varying sizes and experience in this way at the Ox Drovers Gatherings at Tillers, in order to help the inexperienced team learn.

From my limited experience, I can say to watch that the older bigger Guernseys are not bothered by having other steers behind them, and try to turn around to face them off. It’s likely that they won’t mind, especially if they “know” the shorthorns. The yearlings will probably try to overtake the Guernseys, being young and frisky, but their driver will be able to deal with that and also the weight of the disc will discourage it.

What you are doing sounds exciting. Post photos if you can.

[Howie]

Put the young ones in front and drive them. Don’t put them in the back and teach them to follow.

Howie

[Author]

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