THREE AREAS TO COVER IN YOUR WINTER PREPARATION
It never hurts to reevaluate your risk management plan , especially in the months before winter . Or , if you have not created a risk management plan for your business or operation , now is a good time to start putting your plans on paper . A risk management plan should cover animal health protocols before , during and after winter storms ; a feeding strategy ; and appropriate methods and amounts of communication with all personnel to manage daily tasks and handle emergencies .
Winter weather can catch people by surprise and can cause major losses to cattle producers , whether from animal death , employee injury , or simply getting behind schedule . Below are things to consider as you evaluate or develop a plan to mitigate those risks . Cattle Well-Being
Cattle health is an obvious first concern . Producers should be especially alert with cattle transported from a warmer climate that may not be acclimated to the cold or lighter-weight calves that have less fat insulation and cold tolerance .
“ When it comes to winter storms , the three most important factors to consider are making sure all cattle are fed properly and in an efficient manner , keeping all water tanks open to ensure adequate water to all pens , and maintaining animal health during these extremely stressful events ,” said Paige Schmidt , DVM , a generational cow-calf and backgrounding producer from North Dakota .
Through Schmidt ’ s experience in feedlots and cow-calf operations , she ’ s seen how cold temperatures , wind speed , wet hair coats , and wet or muddy conditions all affect cattle health and growth . Each of these factors can change the energy requirements for an animal . Having abundant feed stored prior to a storm can mitigate complications and ensure cattle get at least one round of feed if mechanical issues ensue . Sudden ration changes and cattle backing off feed can lead to digestive issues for cattle , Schmidt explained .
Other factors to consider are continuing to give cattle adequate water , wind protection and snow removal . In cold snaps , frozen water troughs need to be broken and the ice removed to warm water temperature , which increases the time between troughs freezing again . Wind protection can also make a big difference , keeping cattle warm , and bedding areas with muddy conditions keeps coats dry and provides insulation . If hauling cattle in freezing temperatures , adjust the trailer to prevent wind chill by closing vents . Often overlooked , have a system to keep alleyways and pens cleared during a storm so feed , water , and any necessary movement of cattle can be accomplished . Schmidt recommends backing in snow removal equipment , so it is “ ready to plow ” out of a building .
Gary Coady , executive vice president of agribusiness at Marsh McLennan Agency , has 37 years of experience in agribusiness insurance helping cattle owners mitigate losses . Coady recommends owners have insurance coverage for smothering caused by blizzards as well as hypothermia in their insurance policies . If feeding light-weight cattle , check that there is not a weight restriction in the policy . Employee and Producer Safety
Just as important , owners should not forget to consider the safety and well-being of their employees during severe weather conditions . This includes maintaining clear communication and expectations for employees in emergencies .
“ Feedyard operators need to include the safety of their employees in their plans . If weather conditions warrant employees to stay
Winter Preparation Checklist
Ensure cattle can be fed routine rations
Keep abundant feed stored
Break and remove ice from water troughs regularly
Use bedding to warm cattle and provide insulation
Close vents on trailers when hauling in cold temperatures
Insurance coverage includes smothering cause by blizzards
Maintain clear communication with all employees
Consider back-up power in case of utility interruptions
Check and record all property damage after a storm
Ensure animal health products are stored in a dry , warm environment
onsite , for example , they should have places for them to stay and adequate food and water ,” Coady said . “ It ’ s also important for operators to have backup power in case utility service is interrupted during a weather event .”
Having a written , well-thought-out plan ahead of an incident will speed up the recovery process , and that plan should be followed whether the owner / manager is onsite or not . For some producers , it may be smart to refuse to take in additional cattle ahead of pending storms . While this isn ’ t always possible , it can prevent a big loss in some cases . Property and Equipment
“ People often forget to check for property damage caused by a winter storm ,” Coady said . “ Regular maintenance of equipment , feed mills , and facilities should not be overlooked during storms . This is important in order to protect against additional damage and potential loss .”
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