Abstract: A method for preparing a thixotropic animal feed suspension includes the steps of providing a liquid sugar solution and mixing a nongellatinized starch containing ingredient into the liquid sugar solution and thence mixing a dry bulk feed nutrient into the sugar and starch mixture to form a thixotropic suspension. All mixing steps are accomplished at ambient temperatures and the starch containing ingredient is preferably selected from feed stuffs, from wheat, corn, milo and mixtures thereof. The suspension resulting from this method is stable for long periods of time and at very low temperatures.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for supplying water to a conventional tree stand. A water level monitor is selectively positioned within the reservoir of the tree stand and is electrically connected to a solenoid valve so that water will be supplied from a water reservoir to the tree stand when the water level within the tree stand drops to a predetermined level. A float within the monitor drops with the water level, triggering a reed switch and activating the solenoid valve so that water can flow from a reservoir to the tree stand.