In Engerdal, grass marshes and stream embankments are called outlying fields. The outlying fields were an important addition to the winter feed, and a lot of work was put into taking care of them. In the early summer streams were flooded and the water was lead to the outlying fields. This way the fields were fertilized.
The hay was stored in winter hayracks or in hay barns, and was usually transported to the farm by horse and sleigh during Christmas, before the snow got to deep. If the outlying field was far from the farm, a haymaker’s cabin would be built for rest and lodging. A mid-size farm could have several hay barns and haymaker’s cabins spread over a large area.
Because these fields were located on uncultivated land, the farmers had to make sure animals did not eat the grass during the summer. The animals were therefor herded all through summer. The shepherds were children. They usually worked together two and two, some as young as 5 to 6 years old.