The Haystack Project

The acronym WHOA (Working Horse & Oxen Association) represents more than the interaction between human and draft animal; it also represents a way of life. WHOA is attempting demonstrate, through the use of affordable, low-tech harvesting—in this instance harvesting of hay—how draft animals can partner with small farmers in accomplishing many farm tasks using traditional techniques, low impact practices, and non-fossil fueled equipment. This project, under the auspices of MOFGA, is being funded through the Harvest Fund of Maine Initiatives Funding for Change. Its purpose is to build community—through its planning, infrastructure construction, its adaptation of traditional techniques, and finally the cooperative efforts of several men and women with their animals on this haystack.