Spring in the Big Bend is usually a time of vibrant green—the season of “new life” we all look forward to. But this year, the “Sunshine” in our name has felt a bit heavy. Florida is currently facing one of the most intense droughts on record, and here at Sunshine & Sledgehammer, we’ve felt every dry day of it.
The Hardships on the Pasture
For those who follow our journey, you know our sheep are the heart of this farm. Normally, this is the time of year they should be grazing on lush, spring grass. Instead, the persistent drought has turned our vibrant pastures into dusty, brown fields.
Our sheep have faced some real hardships this season:
- Vanishing Forage: With natural grass in short supply, we’ve had to rely heavily on supplementary hay and grain, which puts a strain on both the flock and the farm’s resources.
- The Muck Trap: As our ponds and watering holes recede to record lows, they leave behind thick, unstable mud. It’s a dangerous “quicksand” that can trap livestock in an instant, turning a simple drink of water into a life-or-death situation.
- Health and Hydration: The record heat and lack of moisture make it a constant battle to keep our ewes and lambs properly hydrated and healthy.
The Strength of the Flock
Despite the cracked earth, we are constantly amazed by the resilience of our animals. Whether it’s our Florida Native or St. Croix breeds, these sheep are built for the Florida climate, and their ability to endure these conditions is a testament to their hardiness. They find shade where they can, stick together, and keep moving forward.
Hope on the Horizon?
We recently celebrated “Haircut Day” here at the farm, and seeing the sheep fresh and cool gives us a bit of a reset. Thanks to Ben Hearne of the World-Renowned Hearne Family for the fresh dos. We also restocked our honeybee supply and we now have 6 hives and of course new lambs, piglets, and chick are being born as often as we can get them. We are praying for that “spring recharge” of rain that our North Florida soil so desperately needs. Until then, we’ll be out here with our sledgehammers and our sunshine, doing whatever it takes to keep this farm running.
Thank you for being part of our story. We’d love to hear how you’re managing the dry weather in your own gardens and backyards. Checkout our Spring 2026 Gallery below, and be sure to check back as we add pictures of the incredible things happening on the farm.
