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As any dairy farmer knows, mastitis can disrupt output, quality and ultimately, profit – it’s an expensive and constant threat to herd health and milk quality. But across the board, whether in human or veterinary medicine, antibiotics are increasingly being looked at as a last resort rather than a quick fix, due to the increased prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). So how can we all help to combat antibiotic resistance on dairy farms?We’re all being urged to use fewer antibiotics. But how do you manage bacterial infections like mastitis without tubing and anti-inflammatory injections? The truth is, they’re still very much required, but by focusing on prevention rather than treatment it can reduce reliance on antibiotics whilst preventing disruption and lowering vet costs.What Is Antimicrobial Resistance – and Why Should You Care?AMR happens when bacteria evolve to survive antibiotics. This makes infections harder to treat in both animals and humans.Similar resistances have been known to happen across sectors, with farmers in England, Scotland and Wales increasingly aware of herbicidal resistance within Blackgrass and the difficulties this can cause when trying to eliminate the problem.In the dairy sector, the overuse of antibiotics to treat conditions like mastitis is contributing to a rise in resistant strains such as E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and MRSA – all of which were isolated in our farm trial.These bacteria are showing increased resistance to some of the most important drugs used in human medicine, including penicillin, third-generation cephalosporins, and vancomycin.The Study: Three Farms, One QuestionA number of years ago we tested the impact of Sublime, on three dairy farms:Farm 1: No disinfection in place. Farm 2: Using lime as a standard hygiene measure. Farm 3: Another untreated control farm.We swabbed the cow housing units to determine the total viable count (TVC) of bacteria on the floor surfaces. The results before using Sublime were clear:Farm 1 (no disinfectant): 1×10⁵ bacterial cells/ml Farm 2 (lime-treated): 1.4×10⁷ bacterial cells/ml Farm 3 (control): 1.1×10⁷ bacterial cells/ml Surprisingly, based on our data, lime on its own made little meaningful difference.The Sublime Effect: 99.9%+ Bacterial ReductionTwo weeks after applying Sublime, bacterial counts plummeted on all three farms:Farm 1: 99.99% reduction Farm 2: 99.9% reduction Farm 3: 99.99% reductionEven more impressively, after four weeks, these reductions were maintained – in some cases reaching 99.9999%. That’s a powerful result from a floor hygiene product alone.What About Somatic Cell Counts?Somatic Cell Count (SCC) is one of the key indicators of udder health. High SCCs lead to milk price penalties and signal the presence of infection.We monitored SCC on each farm before and after using Sublime:28-day average SCC reductions:Farm 2: from 184,600 to 128,600 (↓ 74%) Farm 3: from 331,000 to 237,400 (↓ 28%) Farm 1: from 345,000 to 208,600 (↓ 13%)This isn’t just about numbers – it’s about fewer infections, fewer treatments, and healthier animals.Hygiene vs. Antibiotics: A Smarter StrategyOur study confirms that good hygiene directly reduces the bacterial pressure that leads to mastitis. This means fewer infections and a reduced need for antibiotics – the cornerstone of responsible farming in the age of AMR.By reducing environmental pathogens in cow housing, you’re not only protecting your herd – you’re also playing a vital role in the long-term sustainability of animal and human medicine.The Bottom LineRethink reliance on lime – it might not be as effective as you think. Consider targeted hygiene products like Sublime with proven results. Reducing environmental bacteria can significantly reduce SCC and mastitis incidence. Less infection = less antibiotic use = a healthier herd and a more sustainable farming.What this means for farmersCombating antibiotic resistance on dairy farms doesn’t start in the lab – it starts on the farm. And sometimes, it starts with something as simple as what’s on your cubicles.If you’d like more information on Sublime, the trial data, or how to implement a smarter hygiene protocol on your farm, just give us a shout.Disclaimer: This is data obtained from a limited farm trial and while it supports the efficacy of the SUBLIME product, more detailed research is required and will be carried out to determine long-term effects of using the SUBLIME product.The post Beating Antibiotic Resistance on Dairy Farms: Is Hygiene Your Best Line of Defence? appeared first on Doherty Woodshavings.

Heating your home with a stove or fireplace provides warmth and ambiance, but the fuel you choose can make a big difference in both efficiency and environmental impact. Willow briquettes offer a modern, sustainable alternative to conventional logs, but what exactly are the benefits of using WillowWarm Briquettes?1. Higher Energy EfficiencyOne of the standout advantages of willow wood briquettes is their high energy efficiency. Due to their dense composition and low moisture content (less than 10%), willow briquettes burn hotter and longer than conventional logs, which often contain 20-30% moisture. The reduced moisture means less energy is wasted evaporating water, allowing more heat to be released directly into your home​.In contrast, conventional logs—especially if not properly seasoned—can produce less heat, requiring more fuel to maintain the desired temperature. This efficiency makes willow briquettes a cost-effective option in the long run.2. Low Carbon FootprintWillow wood briquettes are an environmentally responsible fuel choice. Willow is often grown as an energy crop due to its ability to regrow rapidly after being harvested. Through photosynthesis, these trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, offsetting the emissions released when the briquettes are burned. Essentially, the more willow trees grown for fuel, the more CO₂ is absorbed, helping reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions​.By comparison, conventional logs, especially those harvested unsustainably, can contribute to deforestation and higher carbon emissions. Briquettes made from sustainable willow ensure that you’re using a renewable resource without damaging natural forests.3. Cleaner Burn with Less WasteWillow wood briquettes are designed to produce very little ash—typically less than 3%—and they are free from additives, artificial binders, and harmful chemicals. This not only makes for easier clean-up but also contributes to better air quality in your home. The low sulphur content further minimizes the risk of harmful emissions, keeping your chimney cleaner and reducing maintenance costs.In contrast, conventional logs can often produce a higher amount of ash and creosote build-up, particularly if they are not properly seasoned. The result is more frequent cleaning of your stove or fireplace and potentially more chimney maintenance.4. Sustainability and Local SourcingWillow briquettes are a 100% renewable resource, often sourced locally from sustainable forestry operations. Willow trees, grown specifically for fuel, are harvested without depleting natural forests. Additionally, some producers blend willow with forest residues that would otherwise be left to decompose, further reducing waste and increasing sustainability. On the other hand, conventional logs may be sourced from non-sustainable practices, contributing to deforestation and environmental degradation. Opting for locally produced willow briquettes supports sustainable forestry and reduces the ecological footprint associated with transportation and logging.5. Consistent PerformanceBecause willow briquettes are engineered to be uniform in size and density, they provide a more consistent burn than conventional logs. This means predictable heating output and less need to constantly adjust the fire. Logs, on the other hand, can vary significantly in size, moisture content, and burn characteristics, making it harder to maintain a steady heat source.6. Reduced Storage and HandlingWillow wood briquettes are compact and easy to store. Due to their uniform shape and density, they take up less space than traditional logs, which often require careful stacking. Willow briquettes also need less handling since they’re ready to use as soon as they arrive, making them a more convenient option for busy households​.So, Are WillowWarm Briquettes Better?So now that we have explored the benefits of using WillowWarm Briquettes, its clear that switching from conventional logs to willow wood briquettes could be the right choice for you. From higher efficiency and cleaner burning to supporting sustainability and reducing your carbon footprint. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly, practical solution for heating your home, willow briquettes provide a powerful, clean, and responsible choice.By making the switch, you not only improve your heating experience but also contribute to a healthier planet.Why not get a pallet delivered right to your door – Click Here!The post The Benefits of Using WillowWarm Briquettes Over Conventional Kiln Dried Logs appeared first on Doherty Woodshavings.

If you’re using wood pellets to heat your home, you know how important it is to store them properly. Pellets are efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective, but they have one key weakness: moisture. When wood pellets get wet, they swell, crumble, and become unusable, turning what could be a powerful heat source into a pile of mush. That’s why it’s essential to keep them dry and easily accessible, especially during the winter months when demand is highest.In this blog, we’ll explore several DIY wood pellet storage solutions that you can implement at home. Whether you’re tight on space or looking for a long-term storage option, we’ve got ideas that will help keep your fuel dry, organized, and ready to use.1. Plastic Storage Bins with LidsOne of the easiest ways to store wood pellets is by using heavy-duty plastic storage bins. These bins are waterproof, durable, and affordable. You can find them in various sizes at most home improvement stores, making it easy to fit them in your basement, garage, or shed.Tip: Choose bins with airtight lids to ensure moisture stays out. To make the pellets easy to access, consider using smaller bins that can hold one or two bags of pellets each. Stackable bins are also a great space-saving option. Pro Tip: Label each bin with the date you filled it to ensure you use the oldest pellets first.2. Recycled 55-Gallon DrumsFor a more rugged and sustainable option, consider using recycled 55-gallon drums. These containers are typically made from thick plastic or metal and can hold several bags of wood pellets at once.How to Use: Make sure the drum has a tight-fitting lid to keep moisture out. You can find these drums at industrial supply stores, or you may even score one for free from local businesses. Just be sure to clean them thoroughly before use if they’ve previously held other substances. Customization: Add a simple spigot or door to the bottom of the drum for easy dispensing, so you don’t have to dig to the bottom of the container.3. Build a Wooden Pellet Storage BoxIf you’re a DIY enthusiast, building a custom wooden storage box can be a practical and aesthetic solution. A wooden box not only keeps your pellets dry but can also be designed to match the style of your home.Materials Needed: You’ll need plywood, screws, weatherproof sealant, and a hinged lid. Be sure to treat the wood with a sealant or paint to prevent it from absorbing moisture. Design Tips: Build the box with a slanted lid to allow rain or snow to run off. You can also add casters to the bottom to make it mobile, which is especially helpful if you need to move it from storage to your pellet stove.4. Repurpose an Old Chest FreezerHave an old chest freezer that you’re not using anymore? It can make an excellent, airtight storage container for wood pellets. Chest freezers are naturally well-sealed, designed to keep out moisture and pests, and offer plenty of storage space.Instructions: Simply clean out the freezer, and it’s ready for pellet storage. To make access easier, you can remove the motor or cut out the wiring if it’s no longer functional. Add dividers inside to help organize your pellets. Bonus: Since freezers are insulated, they can also help regulate the temperature of your pellets, ensuring they remain in good condition, even in fluctuating weather.5. Outdoor Sheds with ShelvingIf you have the outdoor space, setting up a small dedicated shed for wood pellet storage is a great option. A shed provides ample space to store large amounts of pellets and protects them from the elements.Organize with Shelves: Inside the shed, add sturdy shelving units to keep your bags of pellets off the floor, reducing the risk of moisture seeping in. You can also store other winter-related tools and supplies here for easy access. Important Tip: Ensure your shed is weatherproof, especially the roof. Install a vapor barrier or use a rubber roofing material to prevent leaks. If you’re in a snowy area, make sure the shed is insulated enough to keep moisture from building up inside.6. Pellet Hopper Storage SolutionsIf you’re looking for a high-capacity solution, consider investing in a pellet hopper. These are specially designed for large quantities of pellets and can hold several weeks’ worth of fuel.DIY Hopper: If you’re handy, you can build your own pellet hopper using plywood or metal. Be sure to design it with a chute or door at the bottom for easy dispensing into buckets or directly into your pellet stove. Pro Tip: Elevate the hopper off the ground to prevent moisture from creeping in through the bottom.General Tips for Wood Pellet StorageKeep Pellets Elevated: Always store pellets off the ground. Use pallets, shelving, or storage platforms to ensure no moisture seeps in from below. Store Indoors If Possible: Indoor storage in a dry space (like a garage or basement) is the best way to keep pellets safe from rain and humidity. Rotate Stock: Use older pellets first. Mark the date on your storage bins or bags to make sure you’re burning the oldest ones first to prevent any degradation.ConclusionWood pellet storage doesn’t have to be complicated. By using the right materials and placing a focus on moisture protection, you can ensure your fuel remains dry and ready to burn all winter long. Whether you prefer plastic bins, custom-built wooden boxes, or even an old freezer, there’s a DIY solution that can fit your needs and space.With just a little planning and effort, you can create a storage system that keeps your wood pellets easily accessible, dry, and organized for efficient home heating.And once you have your wood pellet storage sorted, why not fill them with our Lasta wood pellets? Shop here.The post DIY Wood Pellet Storage Solutions: Keep Your Fuel Dry and Accessible appeared first on Doherty Woodshavings.

.avia-image-container.av-ly76i08f-fc267fc5105f6419c12207dcccdda295 img.avia_image{ box-shadow:none; } .avia-image-container.av-ly76i08f-fc267fc5105f6419c12207dcccdda295 .av-image-caption-overlay-center{ color:#ffffff; } .avia-image-container.av-ly5znoh1-f713404d0179cf6a70cb463fc9e27074 img.avia_image{ box-shadow:none; } .avia-image-container.av-ly5znoh1-f713404d0179cf6a70cb463fc9e27074 .av-image-caption-overlay-center{ color:#ffffff; } Wood pellets might not be the most exciting topic for a piece of expertly crafted content and as beautifully written as it might be, it’s hard to get excited about compressed wood fibres. BUT, it is easy to get on board with learning something new, and if you consider how many things you watch, read or listen to that don’t teach you anything at all, then this might actually be a niche topic worth a bit of perusing! Now that I’ve got you well and truly lured in, we’ll get a bit more serious. Our education hub is called that for a reason, we want to provide anyone taking the time to read our blogs with information they might not normally be privy to. We’ll not insult your intelligence by suggesting you’re about to open Pandora’s Box, but if your dealings involve biomass, horses, agriculture or cats, pellets might turn out to be a surprisingly helpful product, depending on what you’re up to. Wood Pellets: A Quick Summary Wood pellets are made from compressed wood fibres. Generally, the materials used to produce them are sawdust, shavings or other ‘waste’ wood products. There aren’t any adhesives added so when you buy wood pellets, you can be fairly sure they are 100% made from wood and that’s certainly the case with our pellets. So, What are they used For? Surprisingly, quite a few things! If you’ve got a boiler in your home or business, you work with horses, or you’re in the pizza restaurant biz, you might already know a few of the uses for wood pellets: Heating: Residential Heating: Pellets are commonly used in specialised stoves and boilers for home heating. Commercial Heating: They are also used in larger boilers for heating commercial buildings and institutions. Power Generation: Electricity Production: Wood pellets can be used in power plants, either alone or co-fired with coal, to generate electricity. When compared to using fossil fuels on their own, pellets do help to combat harmful greenhouse gasses while still remaining a very efficient fuel, so they’re well worth considering. Industrial Applications: Process Heat: Industries can use wood pellets as a renewable energy source for generating process heat needed in manufacturing processes. Combined Heat and Power (CHP): Some facilities use pellets in CHP systems to produce both heat and electricity. Animal Bedding: Pellets are used as bedding for livestock, particularly horses, due to their high absorbency and low dust levels. This helps maintain a cleaner and more hygienic environment for the animals. Cooking and Grilling: Pellet Grills and Smokers: Wood pellets are used in specialised grills and smokers for cooking. They provide consistent heat and a smoky flavour to the food. In my opinion, one of the best uses for wood pellets is cooking pizza in specialist wood pellet pizza ovens! Absorbents: Wood pellets can be used as absorbents for cleaning up spills and managing moisture in various settings, this is what makes it such a good option for bedding, or as we’ll mention below, cat litter. Agricultural Uses: Some farmers use pellets as a soil amendment or for composting purposes due to their organic nature. Cat Litter: Wood pellets are also useful as a cat litter because they are highly absorbent, control odour well, and are biodegradable. They often have a pleasant pine scent and are easy to scoop, making them particularly hygienic. We even have our own cat litter brands, Pure Purrs. So, while wood pellets are well known for their use as a fuel substitute and as a non-clumping, natural cat litter, they do have a few other uses that can prove beneficial in a variety of scenarios. The post What are Wood Pellets used for? appeared first on Doherty Woodshavings.

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