Temperature

A Good Coat for a Better Start

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 18:46:40 GMT

When temperatures drop, a good calf jacket can make a big difference for young calves. Cold weather forces calves to burn extra energy just to stay warm, and a jacket helps them hang on to that energy so they can keep growing strong.

“A cold calf will need to use energy to try to maintain its body temperature; energy that would normally be devoted to growth and maintaining a healthy immune system,” says Cassie Yost, dairy Extension educator at Pennsylvania State University.

But not all jackets are created equal. Even the best one will fall short if it is not managed well. Here is what to look for in a solid calf jacket and how to get the most out of it once winter sets in.

Choose a Jacket Built for Warmth and Durability

A good calf jacket should balance warmth, fit and durability. Calf specialists recommend choosing a jacket with an outer waterproof or water-resistant shell to protect against wind and moisture. Inside, insulated liners should help trap heat without being too bulky, allowing calves to stay warm without restricting movement.

“A clean, dry hair coat provides greater insulation from cold than a wet, matted coat, and calf jackets can be used to further insulate young calves,” Yost adds.

Fit matters too. Jackets should sit close to the body without gaps, allow full range of motion and adjust easily as calves grow. Coats with multiple strap points help maintain a snug fit without rubbing.

But once a jacket is on, it needs regular checks to make sure it still fits and keeps the calf comfortable.

“Leg straps can quickly become too tight and dig into the back legs of calves, easily causing open sores,” Yost says. “Remember that putting a jacket on a newborn calf is not a once-and-done action. It requires monitoring as the calf grows and as the weather conditions change.”

Keep Them Clean and Dry

Cleanliness is just as important as insulation. Jackets that trap moisture or bacteria can do more harm than good.

“Remember to wash jackets in between uses to remove any built-up mud or manure to ensure a clean, dry jacket is available for the next newborn calf,” Yost says.

Jackets must also be fully dry before reuse. Wet coats lose insulation and can chill calves even faster than leaving them bare. Farms should keep enough extras washed and ready so calves never go back into a damp coat.

Start Jacket Use at the Right Time

Knowing when to begin using jackets matters. Severe cold puts young calves under 3 weeks of age at the greatest risk.

“Calf jackets are most useful for calves under 3 weeks of age and especially for any calves that are sick and struggling with illnesses,” Yost says.

Many farms rely on benchmarks such as the 90-degree rule, where the daytime high plus nighttime low equals 90°F or less, to decide when jackets should go on. Others watch for several nights below 40°F. Once jackets are in use, they typically stay on through the winter and into early spring.

Warm spells require extra attention.

“If the calf is sweating during the day, that damp calf will get chilled once the temperatures begin to fall at night,” Yost explains. “Sweating followed by chilling will negate the purpose of the jacket.”

Knowing when to take jackets off is just as important as knowing when to put them on.

“As calves grow, calf jackets can be removed once that calf is growing well and consuming grain. Removing jackets at a reasonable time while the calf is still on milk will help them adapt to their environments now that the added protection of the jacket is removed,” she adds.

Other Details Matter

Even the best jacket can’t make up for poor bedding. Calves need a deep, clean and dry bed to nest into. Jackets are a helpful layer, but they work best when the calf’s environment is warm, dry and well-bedded.

Fresh straw, shavings or other bedding materials should be replenished regularly so calves can nest, curl up and stay insulated from cold floors. Bedding also helps wick away moisture, which reduces the risk of chilling and illness. When the ground is frozen or damp, adding extra bedding becomes even more critical.

Jackets Help Calves Use Energy Wisely

Cold calves burn extra energy just to stay warm, which takes away from growth, immunity and overall health. A well-chosen jacket helps them hold onto that energy so it goes toward what really matters.

When paired with good management and proper bedding, a clean, dry, well-fitting jacket can help young calves handle the cold months with less stress.

How to Create a Winning Winter Feeding Playbook

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 14:24:35 GMT

Cold, snow, wind, and more – winter in the northern climates brings extra challenges for dairies and their animals.

“We think a lot about heat stress, but cold stress also is a factor on many dairies,” stated Dr. Heather Dann, President of the W.H. Miner Institute, Chazy, N.Y. on a recent episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt podcast.

Fortunately, lactating cows produce a lot of heat. Dr. Bill Weiss, Professor Emeritus at Ohio State University, said on a recent episode of the Dairy Podcast Show, that a cow producing 100 pounds of milk per day will generate 40 mcal of excess heat per day. How much is 40 mcal in relatable terms? About the same amount of heat energy as 1.5 gallons of gasoline.

“In the summer, that’s a problem, because that excess heat must be dissipated,” said Weiss. “But in cold conditions, it can help keep cows warm.” In fact, he said the lower critical temperature – at which their body needs to make adjustments to maintain core body temperature – may be as low as -20°F in good shelter.

But while the rumen may act as a terrific furnace for lactating cows, that’s not the case for dry cows and young stock. Weiss said their lower critical temperature is more likely in the neighborhood of 10-20°F. Accommodations that should be made for them include:

Housing and shelter – Preweaned calves need deeper bedding and the ability to nest to stay warm. Older heifers and dry cows, too, can endure winter conditions more successfully with better shelter. “There’s a lot of cost to poor facilities,” declared Weiss. And even though lactating cows in free stalls are less susceptible to cold, Dann noted the importance of maintaining and utilizing curtained sidewalls to better shelter cows in harsh conditions and protect the function of equipment like waterers.
Body condition monitoring – Fat is an excellent insulator, and Weiss cautioned against heifers and dry cows losing condition through the winter. “We know losing body condition in the dry period definitely puts cows at risk for metabolic problems,” he said. “For heifers and dry cows, you might have to improve forage quality and reduce fiber a little bit to get the energy they need to stay warm. But as soon as it turns warm, we’ve got to lower energy intake to keep body condition steady.
Increased nutrients – Lactating cows often naturally consume more dry matter in cold conditions. Dann said calf nutrition needs can be accommodated by increasing feeding frequency or adjusting the type and/or quantity of milk replacer. For dry cows, Weiss advised their energy requirements will typically increase by 10-20%, requiring a bump of 1-2 mcal net energy/head/day. “The source of the nutrients, as long as it’s digestible, doesn’t matter that much,” he stated. “You’re not going to make those dry cows fatter or produce a bigger calf. It’s just going into metabolic cycles to produce heat.”

Additionally, Dann cautioned that one of the dangers of extremely cold weather is frozen silage. If big chunks find their way to the lactating ration, sorting and TMR inconsistency can result. She advised defacing silo faces 6 inches or more at feed-out to prevent frozen chunks, and managing plastic covers on silo faces to prevent snow melt that creates frozen patches.

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With More Arctic Air Set to Blast the U.S., Why This Winter Could Be Remembered for Its Extremes

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 21:42:02 GMT

After ice and blizzard conditions blasted the Midwest, South and East to start January, another round of frigid temperatures is set to blanket much of the U.S., and this time, temperatures could fall even lower than the previous round of cold.

Much of the U.S. is still seeing snow cover, with temperatures too cold to melt the recent snow. But now, we’re bracing for even colder temperatures as what’s called the “Siberian Express” is set to arrive this weekend. What exactly is the Siberian Express? Well, it gets its name from the cold air’s geographic origins. It’s when arctic air spills into the U.S., and it can have multiple sources, including Arctic Canada, Alaska, and in this case, Russia’s Siberia region, which is home to the coldest place on earth.

snow cover

(Weather Undground)

Meteorologists say the active start to January is a sign of what’s ahead.

“We’ve tried to bring some moisture back into places that have not seen it,” says Eric Sodgrass, principal atmospheric scientist with Conduit. “I’ve had this concern for a while about the lack of good flow in the atmosphere and what that’s meant toward building drought in some places through fall and now early winter. And I hate to say it, but nasty winters tend to give us a much better outlook for the next year. So, hey, let’s keep these things going for the rest of January and February, too.”

It’s not just the cold that’s turning heads, but it’s also the amount of snow that’s fallen since the start of the year, and it’s setting records. Take Kansas City, Mo., for example. That area has seen 13.” of snow in January, which makes it the second snowiest start to January in Kansas City history. Some parts of Arkansas saw as much as 15" of snow last week. That compares to areas that typically see snow, such as Chicago, recording little to no snowfall so far this year.

pic.twitter.com/rC9Dbh0qHE
— NWS Climate Prediction Center (@NWSCPC) January 13, 2025

The Winter of Extremes and Episodic Cold Outbreaks

USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey thinks the winter of 2025 will be remembered for the extremes.

“With this pattern set up, it’s going to be too dry in the Southwest, stormy in the Northwest, and episodic cold outbreaks across the country,” he says. “Everybody remembers those because especially embedded in an otherwise relatively mild winter, you really remember those hard hitters.”

Cold

(GFS Model )

And that’s exactly what we are in for later this week. According to Rippey, the upcoming Arctic blast is one of those “episodic cold outbreaks” we typically see during La Niña, and what he describes as a re-amplification of the pattern we’ve been seeing for much of the month.

“Sunday night’s GFS model is showing this for extreme minimum temperatures over the next seven days,” says Rippey. “Bitter cold should stay out of the Deep South, but it may get a bit colder than this early next week before it gets better.”

Cold

(GFS Model )

Recent Moisture Helps Drought in Places
What about the moisture? The recent moisture is helping drought conditions in parts of the upper Midwest and some areas of the plains.

“But as you move to the south, that’s where I have concerns, that southwestern quadrant of the country, southern California, to the High Plains, like West Texas, western Kansas, western Oklahoma,” Rippey says. ”All I can say is it’s very fortunate those areas in the central and southern plains had a wet November because it doesn’t look good for the foreseeable future.”

But what about areas farther north, like Montana and the Dakotas? Lerner doesn’t expect widespread relief this winter.

“We’re getting some waves of snow to come across Montana and the Dakotas, but it’s a dry, powdery snow, and it’s really not providing high volumes of moisture,” says Drew Lerner, founder and senior agricultural meteorologist at World Weather, Inc. “This pattern will continue for the next several weeks, so we’ll put out a little bit more snow up that way. But as far as being able to get a big soaking rain type, you’re going to have to wait until spring.”

Meteorologists say one thing we are seeing that’s consistent with La Niña, is the sharp dividing line between wetter conditions and drought. And NOAA’s seasonal outlook shows that divide with below normal precipitation forecast for much of the southwest and Deep South over the next 90 days. Above normal in areas of the northwest and east.

Precip. Outlook

(NOAA)

Temp Outlook

(NOAA )

Drought Watch
Lerner thinks parts of the upper Midwest and northern Plains could see more active weather with rain into spring.

“So, I’m not too terribly concerned about the fact that we’re still seeing persistent dryness in those areas,” Lerner says. “Not all of that region will get relief when we get to the spring, but I would say probably two-thirds of that region will.”

But even with more moisture across other parts of the U.S., Snodgrass says he’s concerned about drought in other areas due to the weak La Niña.

“We tend to be wet through the Mississippi valley and east going into spring. There tends to be lots of storms, but we tend to see the drought that’s in West Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, the Sunbelt expand up toward Colorado,” Snodgrass says. “Most models want to bring dry conditions out of the southern Canadian prairie into Montana, and that’s kind of funneling toward the western Corn Belt. And I’ve based this off historical analogs looking at a lot of different years that looks something like this one. We just tended to be a bit hotter and drier.”

He says looking back, six out of 10 years that we’ve seen a similar pattern, we’ve ended up with heat and dryness in key months of July and August.

“To be honest with you, this is the first time in fall and winter that I’ve been kind of saying, ‘Hey, I think our risk is elevated for drought,’” Snodgrass says.

He says something extremely important to watch is what happens in the Gulf of Alaska.

“If between March and June, if that’s where it gets cold, the risk of drought in the Midwest goes way up. Watch that March time frame,” Snodgrass says. “I think that’s where our risk factor is going to be going forward. So I’m watching winter, but I’m more concerned about spring/summer.”

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Keep Replacement Heifers Thriving this Winter: Three Expert Tips You Need to Know

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 17:51:20 GMT

When dairy farmers think about animals impacted by cold stress, calves are often the first that come to mind. Their smaller size and limited fat reserves make them especially vulnerable to harsh winter conditions. However, it’s important to remember that cold stress doesn’t just affect calves—it can also significantly impact heifers.

Younger animals, like post-weaned heifers, are particularly susceptible as they have less developed coats, and higher energy needs to maintain their core body temperature. For dairy farmers, understanding the signs of cold stress and implementing preventative measures across all age groups in the herd is essential for maintaining health, productivity, and growth during the winter months. While calves often receive extra attention, ensuring proper care for heifers and older animals can make a big difference in the overall success of the operation during the colder seasons. For these replacements to grow and thrive, dairy farmers must take proactive steps to prevent cold stress and minimize associated health issues.

Daniela Roland, dairy extension educator at Pennsylvania State University, provides the following tips for providing adequate care to replacement heifers during frigid temps.

Understanding Cold Stress

While lactating cows are relatively tolerant of cold temperatures and can handle conditions below 18°F when equipped with a heavy winter coat, young heifers face challenges at temperatures below 32°F.

“Normally, a heifer’s winter coat, plus their natural metabolic processes, like rumination, can keep them warm,” Roland says. “But during extremely cold temperatures - especially if there is inadequate housing, lack of dry bedding, insufficient nutrition, or a combination of these - heifers may experience cold stress.”

Housing and Bedding

Dry, well-bedded pens are essential to help heifers tolerate winter conditions. Bedding materials like straw, shavings, or corn fodder should be clean, dry, and absorbent to retain body heat.

“One way to test the dryness of heifer pens is the knee test,” Roland says. “To do this, try dropping to your knees in several areas around the pen. If your knees are still clean and dry after 10–15 seconds of kneeling on the bedding, then the bedding is sufficient. But if your pants are dirty or damp, more fresh bedding should be added.”

Wet or muddy coats reduce the insulating properties of a heifer’s hair, also increasing their susceptibility to cold stress. Excess manure or mud buildup should prompt farmers to add fresh bedding or clean pens more frequently.

Additionally, heifer housing should allow for adequate air exchange without creating drafts. Insufficient ventilation can increase the risk of respiratory diseases like bovine respiratory disease (BRD), which costs farmers an average of $252 per case and can delay a heifer’s growth and first calving, according to Roland.

Proper heifer housing is another critical factor to consider during cold weather. Housing should shield heifers from environmental extremes such as harsh winds, heavy snow, and freezing temperatures while maintaining a comfortable and healthy environment.

One key aspect of housing is ventilation. While barns and shelters must prevent drafts, they should also allow for proper air exchange to reduce humidity and prevent the buildup of harmful gases like ammonia. It’s essential to monitor heifers for signs of respiratory distress, such as coughing, labored breathing, or nasal discharge, as these could indicate inadequate airflow or other health issues. If respiratory problems are detected, improving ventilation should be a priority.

Heifers housed outside also need special attention.

“Heifers housed outdoors need to have access to either natural or constructed windbreaks,” Roland adds. “Wind significantly reduces the actual temperature, increasing cold stress on heifers.”

Nutrition for Winter Growth

In colder weather, heifers expend more energy to stay warm, making proper nutrition vital. Farmers should aim for daily growth rates of 1.75 pounds for large breeds and 1.3 pounds for smaller breeds to ensure heifers reach optimal breeding size.

“Data has shown that undersized heifers may calve later than the desired age range of 22 to 24 months. These smaller heifers tend to be more prone to calving problems and less productive,” Roland says. “Farmers should work with their nutritionist to make sure that their heifers have enough energy in their diet to help protect them from the cold weather and to ensure proper growth.”

Water Access

Water availability is another critical factor in winter care. Frozen or excessively cold water can limit intake, reducing feed consumption and energy availability.

“Dairy heifers between the ages of 5 and 24 months will drink about 3.8 to 9.6 gallons of water per day,” Roland adds. “Monitoring for frozen waterers is important during the extreme colder temperatures.”

Why It Matters

Investing in proper heifer care during winter ensures these replacements grow to their genetic potential and transition into productive lactating cows. By focusing on housing, bedding, nutrition, and water, farmers can safeguard their herd’s health, prevent growth setbacks, and optimize future productivity. Taking these steps helps ensure your heifers thrive, even in the coldest months.

U.S. Braces for a Hotter and Drier Fall as La Niña Looms

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 20:31:58 GMT

If predictions hold true, this fall could be a hotter and drier season across much of the U.S. According to the Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), unusually warm days are still ahead for parts of the country during the meteorological fall, which spans from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30.

Seasonal Temperature Outlook

(NOAA)

The temperature outlook for September through November 2024 favors a warmer-than-normal season, with the greatest probabilities — exceeding 60% — expected in New England and parts of the Southwest. The West, particularly Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah, is likely to experience an unusually warm September. On the opposite coast, Florida and much of New England are also trending warmer than normal. Conversely, while southwestern Alaska may see below-normal temperatures, northern Alaska is more likely to experience above-normal warmth.

La Niña, known for bringing dry, warmer-than-average conditions to the southern half of the country, is favored to develop during the September to November period, with a 66% chance of formation. Once established, there’s a 70% chance it will persist through the winter of 2024-2025. Though La Niña hasn’t officially started, signs of its arrival are reflected in NOAA’s fall weather predictions.

Seasonal Precipitation Outlook

(NOAA)

As the weather pattern strengthens in the coming months, the U.S. might see an extended period of warmth and dryness, particularly in regions already feeling the heat.

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Dangerously High Temperatures Expected to Soar Out West

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 19:39:04 GMT

Is it early June or the middle of August? Because despite what the calendar might say, Mother Nature seems to be cranking up the thermostat earlier than normal this year.

States such as Arizona, California, Nevada, and Texas are bracing for a blistering inferno this week, with meteorologists predicting dangerously high, potentially record-breaking temperatures soaring well into the triple digits.

According to the National Weather Service, daily record highs are likely throughout the week, with temperatures soaring 10, 15, and even 20 degrees above average. Unfortunately, nighttime temperatures won’t offer much relief, as lows are predicted to remain in the 70s. A similar pattern has already caused record-breaking heat south of the border, resulting in dozens of deaths among people and animals in Mexico over the past month.

According to Melissa O’Rourke, farm management specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, many of today’s farm employees lack previous farm or other outdoor employment experience. Therefore, dealing with weather-related conditions may be new to them, not to mention the difference among individuals who may or may not be acclimatized to high heat conditions. She recommends the following tips to help keep employees cools as temperatures rise.

Keep employees hydrated. Provide water stations or purchase coolers to keep water available for employees when they need it. Inexpensive ice machines can also be purchased to help keep beverages cold. Farm fridges should be well stocked with water bottles, Gatorade and flavored water at all times.

Provide breaks. Provide workers with frequent rest periods in cool or shaded areas. Consider adding expensive fans or window AC units to employee breakrooms.

Consider specialty garments. Cotton t-shirts can trap in heat. Consider purchasing moisture-wicking or cooling uniform shirts for your employees to wear. Breathable hats can also keep the sun off of your employee’s face.

Switch schedules. When possible, schedule hot jobs for the cooler part of the day - and where preventative maintenance and repair jobs may occur in hot areas, schedule these tasks for cooler months.

Monitor employees. Particular employees – such as older workers, those who are overweight or have heart-related medical conditions – may have an even lower-than-average sensitivity to heat and require additional monitoring. Consider having these at-risk employees work during the coolest part of the day.

Fill the freezer. A cool summer treat can put a smile on anyone’s face, especially a hot farm employee. Consider keeping ice cream or frozen treats in the freezer to help employees cool off during a break.

KNOW THE SIGNS OF HEAT ILLNESS

When an employee is exhibiting symptoms of heat-related illness, it is important to respond quickly and appropriately. There are four common heat-related illnesses and each is treated differently. According to OSHA, these are the proper steps to take for each:

Heat rash symptoms include clusters of red bumps, commonly on the neck, chest, or in folds of skin. Keep the affected area dry and relocate the worker to a cooler or less humid environment.

Heat cramps include muscle spasms and pain in the abdomen or limbs. Encourage the worker to rest in the shade or in a cool room, and make sure he or she drinks plenty of cold water. The worker should rest for several hours before returning to strenuous work or seek medical attention if the cramps do not subside.

Heat exhaustion can cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, or dizziness. The worker should immediately sit or lie down in a cool, shaded area, drink plenty of cool liquids and apply ice packs to his or her armpits to lower his or her core temperature. Seek emergency care if symptoms are not improved within an hour.

Heat stroke is an emergency. The worker may exhibit confusion, fainting, or seizures, accompanied by an extremely high body temperature. Call 911, and while waiting for help to arrive, loosen the employee’s clothing, apply cold packs to his or her armpits and encourage him or her to drink plenty of fluids.

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Expect a Hotter Than Normal Summer This Year

Thu, 23 May 2024 21:29:52 GMT

If new predictions hold true it could be a hotter than normal summer across much of the U.S. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently released its outlook for the next three months. Forecasters are predicting that nearly every U.S. state will lean toward hotter than normal temperatures throughout June, July and August. The highest chances for above average heat are in the West. States that are not predicted to see warmer temperatures are North and South Dakota, Minnesota and western Iowa.

The same areas that could see higher temperatures are also predicted to receive less than average precipitation. Meanwhile, the eastern portion of the U.S. could receive more rain than normal. These predictions come as meteorologists say we are coming into a La Niña pattern, which is usually associated with drought conditions for southern half of the country.

Summer 2024 Predicted to Bring on the Heat

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 18:58:44 GMT

Bust out the sunscreen and cattle misters. It’s gonna be a hot one this summer if USDA meteorological predictions are correct.

Dr. Dennis Todey, Director of the USDA Midwest Climate Hub , shared on a recent webinar sponsored by the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation that current weather patterns are signaling excessive summer heat ahead.

He said the outlook for July, August, and September is for above-average temperatures in virtually the entire country. The areas showing the greatest likelihood for above-average temperatures are the western third of the country -- minus a band on the far west coast that includes most of California – and the upper New England states.

The precipitation outlook, on the other hand, is neutral, except for a two-to-three-states-deep region along the entire eastern seaboard, which models show having a likelihood of above-average precipitation.

Todey said there are strong signals that the U.S. is in a “rapid transition” between a strong “El Nino” weather pattern to an equally prominent “La Nina” pattern – a shift that will likely occur sometime between June and August 2024.

The current El Nino was short-lived, lasting only about a year, and followed 3 years of a La Nina pattern. El Nino patterns are typically associated with mild winters. This was certainly the case in 23-24, which posted near-record warmest winter temperatures in December, January, and February. The states with the most pronounced warmth compared to normal winter temps included North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, and the New England states up to Maine.

La Nina is the opposite counterpart of El Nino. In its most recent, 3-year stretch, it coincided with dry weather in a large part of the country. Todey said Iowa – the nation’s largest corn-producing state – has been in a consistent D1 (moderate) drought since July 2021, a record length for the USDA Drought Monitor.

As of the first week of April 2024, pockets of “Extreme” drought were noted by the Drought Monitor in Iowa, Montana, New Mexico, and Texas. Southeastern New Mexico also has an area of “Exceptional” drought, which is the highest categorization of drought status by the Drought Monitor.

“We can’t say for sure whether the next La Nina will perpetuate dry conditions, but there is also no strong indicator of precipitation,” noted Todey. “We will likely be very reliant on getting rainfalls at the right time through the summer.”

The meteorologist has observed an interesting shift in precipitation patterns that is affecting growing seasons. “In terms of temperatures, we’re seeing an increase in growing season length by about 10 days per decade,” he noted. “At the same time, there has been a 20-year trend of midsummer dryness, with more annual rainfall arriving in the spring.”

Coming out of a warm winter is affecting moisture levels on hand. Todey said the lack of frozen soils allowed moisture to absorb more readily – the good news. But the bad news is that warmer temps caused evapo-transpiration to occur at a higher rate. Essentially, the two factors cancelled each other out.

“Iowa is currently at ground-zero for driest soil conditions,” he declared. “While not as widespread, some of those conditions also exist in parts of Missouri and Kansas. It seems probable that we’ll need to preserve moisture this year.”

Looking toward the planting season and beyond, Todey offered the following advice:

Pull back on yield goals for crop projections and inputs. Lackluster soil moisture recovery could limit the effectiveness of fertilizer.
Plant as early as possible to take advantage of spring moisture.
Reduce tillage – every time you do a tillage pass, you lose moisture.
Closely monitor well and groundwater sources upon which you rely for livestock and/or irrigation, so you can proactively develop alternative plans if necessary.

The full webinar and additional comments from Todey can be viewed here .

For more on weather, read:

Are You Ready For the Polar Plunge? Some Areas Could See Temperatures Plummet to Negative 40 Degrees

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 20:12:40 GMT

There’s only one way to describe the cold taking hold of the U.S. right now.

“It’s going to be nasty,” says Drew Lerner, an agricultural meteorologist and founder of World Weather. “If you are out in the northwestern Great Plains, it is going to be unbearable.”

Lerner says as snow barrels across the upper Midwest, the cold is creeping into the picture. By this weekend, the frigid temperatures will blanket much of the U.S., but the western Great Plains will be in the bullseye of the cold.

“We are going to see temperatures drop to minus 47 in Montana. Temperatures in the negative 30s and negative 20s will occur in the rest of Montana, as well as in the western parts of the Dakotas, and southward into a part of Wyoming and also western Nebraska.

Those frigid temperatures are for the actual temperature, not even how cold it will be when the wind chill is factored in. Lerner says considering how cold it’s going to be, he thinks temperature records will be broken.

“Not only in the northern Great Plains, there may be a couple of spots in the Central Plains,” say Lerner. “But mostly the northern Plains and into Canada will see records. In western Canada’s prairies, we will probably see at least a couple of locations get down to minus 50 or minus 49, somewhere in there. So, yes, there will be record cold. Now, for the Midwest, probably not so much. But it’ll be cold enough it won’t matter.”

(Farm Journal)

Lerner says in parts of the upper Midwest and Red River Basin, temperatures will still drop into the negative teens.

Dangerous for Livestock

It’s Montana and portions of the northern Great Plains that are smashing records with this cold. With minus 30 to minus 40 degree forecasts in some areas, it’s the vicious swing in the temperatures that is what makes the weather such a threat to livestock.

“From a livestock perspective, some of these temperatures are just going to be brutal,” says Lerner. “The animals in Montana have not been adequately hardened against the winter weather because it’s been so warm. They’ve had 50- and even some 60-degree temperatures in the past couple of weeks.”

From 40 degrees above zero earlier this week to now a 40-degree below zero forecast for the coming days, Lerner says it’s dangerous for livestock.

“The situation is going to be stressful for the animals. There might be some reduction in milk production for the dairy areas, and then we’ve got a little potential for some weight-gain concerns in beef cattle country. That might be an issue,” says Lerner. “And of course, in the hogs’ area, we probably will have some stress. I just don’t think there’s going to be as much of a potential for a big issue there.”

Little Snow Cover Puts Winter Wheat at Risk

From cattle to crops, winter wheat may be exposed to the cold. Lerner doesn’t expect any major problems with damage, but he says what makes the wheat crop at such risk is the fact there’s little to no snow cover in that part of the Great Plains.

“I don’t think there’s going to be a widespread problem. But in some areas with what little snow is going to be on the ground, the potential is still there that there could be damage done to the crop,” says Lerner.

(Farm Journal)

Stratospheric Warming Causing the Polar Plunge

As much of the U.S. braces for the cold, the positive in the forecast is Lerner thinks the arctic air will be fairly short-lived.

“The whole reason for this event is due to stratospheric warming that took place in late December,” he says. “Stratospheric warming is literally warming that occurs in the stratosphere, that is outside of where we live and outside of where the weather lives.”

The weather lives in the troposphere, which is the layer below the stratosphere. Lerner explains that when the stratosphere turns warmer, it expands that layer in the atmosphere and puts pressure on the troposphere.

“That forces cold air that’s aloft down to the surface. And then it gets spread out from the Arctic,” Lerner explains.

(Farm Journal)

At the same time, El Nino is helping drive moisture up from the South, which is causing the severe storms the U.S. saw in areas from the Southwest to the East Coast this week.

As Lerner looks ahead, he’s not only concerned about this week’s cold in the Great Plains, but the fact the northern Great Plains may not see much moisture this winter.

“We will continue to perpetuate storms periodically across the southern U.S. into maybe the lower part of the Midwest and into the Southeast,” says Lerner. “But as far as getting big storms occurring in the western Corn Belt of the northern Great Plains or even the Central Plains that’s going to be a little bit harder to come by.”

Four Strategies to Help Cows Conquer Cold

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 01:12:00 GMT

When Old Man Winter sets up long-term residence, both animals and people have extra daily challenges. But cows are amazingly resilient creatures, and are better able to withstand cold than many other animals, according to Dr. Jon Pretz, dairy nutritionist with Hubbard Feeds.

In a recently published, comprehensive bulletin on evaluating feeding strategies for the winter, Pretz noted that cattle are extremely cold hardy due to their large body mass; propensity to naturally increase metabolic rate; and ability to add insulation through hair growth and fat deposition under their skin.

Still, there are management measures that can help cows cope and stay productive through cold conditions. Pretz advised:

Prioritize dryness – “A cow with a dry winter coat can withstand temperatures of about 18°F, also known as their lower critical temperature, before feeling cold stress,” said Pretz. As temperatures fall lower and wind chill becomes a factor, cows with a wet haircoat will have double the energy deficit compared to cows with dry haircoats.
Monitor water – Cows prefer water between 40 and 65°F. Lower temperatures may cause water and dry matter intakes to drop. Also, be sure waterers remained thawed, and manage ice surrounding waterers that may deter cows from visiting them.
Keep the feed bunk loaded – Cows will eat more when it’s cold to keep up with maintenance. But when cold temperatures become extreme, more feed may be necessary because dry matter intake is temporarily outpaced by increased metabolism, causing cows to enter a state of negative energy balance. Step up bunk and push-up management and consider feeding more on frigid days. “It’s not uncommon for cows to require an additional 20% more feed during cold weather,” advised Pretz.
Watch for frozen feed – Wet forages and byproducts can freeze during long cold spells. This can result in issues of sorting off chunks of frozen feed in the bunk, reduced intakes, slower digestive passage rates, and more energy expelled by the cows to warm up and process the feed internally. Pretz advised that, as a result, ration energy levels may need to be boosted temporarily through increased starch, sugar, and/or fat during periods of extreme cold.

“With shelter from the wind and elements, adequate body condition, a dry coat, fresh water, dry bedding, and good nutrition, dairy cattle can tolerate temperatures well below zero,” concluded Pretz.

Survive the Heat Wave: Expert Tips to Protect Cattle from Heat Stress

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 14:17:36 GMT

The heat is no joke, especially for cattle producers across the country as they look for ways to keep cattle cool and comfortable.

According to the USDA Agricultural Research Service’s U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service, heat stress forecasts are and will continue to affect major cattle producing states over the next several days.

Heat Rages On

Producers in the middle and lower Great Plains region, as well as those in the Southeast, can expect “emergency” levels of heat through the middle of next week. A large portion of the U.S. will continue to experience alerting and dangerous levels, as well.

Based on a poll of cattle producers , many of the areas suffering dry or droughty conditions will remain at the heat stress epicenter.

One rancher, based north of Forth Worth, Texas, says his area has been scorched since late June, and feeding hay for 22 of the past 25 months is “getting old and very costly.”

Additionally, in central Texas, Pam Newman Williams notes pastures are terrible and with triple digit temperatures, there’s a severe fire danger.

Unfortunately, much of the U.S. will not see any large precipitation levels over the next seven days, according to the NWS Weather Prediction Center, with little to no relief to dry areas.

(Farm Journal)

Combat the Heat

Cattle producer, Derek Pohl, Dorchester, Neb., has turned to water to help protect livestock during these stressful heat events.

In a video posted online, Pohl shows a portable water tank with a sprinkler attached spraying water on cattle in a pen.

Pohl notes he’s hauled almost 15,000 gallons of water so far to try to keep animals comfortable. While the lots aren’t pretty, it’s keeping cattle alive, he adds.

Along with spraying water on cattle in pens, there are additional considerations when working to help cattle through the heat.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln shares five things that may help your livestock in heat events.

1. Water—Not only is water effective when sprayed on livestock, it’s imperative that cattle have access to plenty of clean water and that there is enough access space for all cattle, including calves, to get the water they need.

2. Shade—If possible, move cattle to a pasture that offers shade, or use portable windbreak panels to help provide shade.

3. Air Movement—A slight breeze can make a world of difference, so give cattle the opportunity to get a little wind, if there is one.

4. Surface—Access to surfaces with vegetation will keep cattle cooler.

5. Additional Stress—Consider rescheduling any events that might add stress to cattle, including gathering, weaning or preconditioning.

While keeping livestock cool is a priority, be sure to take care of yourself as well. Consider these five things and apply them to your work on the operation. Stay hydrated and stay safe.

Read More:

Help Cattle Cope With Extreme Heat

Scorched to Belly-High: Cattle Producers’ Inside Look at Pasture Conditions

Cattle Producers Face Relentless Heat and Drought, Hard Decisions To Be Made

Sat, 30 Jul 2022 21:05:24 GMT

The summer months tend to be considered ‘slower’ times at livestock auctions. This year, producers across droughty areas line up for miles .

Like many others, the Seguin Cattle Company livestock auction barn in Texas has seen an influx in cattle coming to town.

Bryan Luensmann, manager of the salebarn, says the extreme heat and drought is forcing thousands of cattle ranchers to sell off their herds.

Being in the cattle business this summer, has “pretty much a roller coaster ride,” Luensmann says. “It’s been chaotic.”

Federal forecasters say this is the second driest year around the Seguin area in the past 128 years.

Local cattle ranchers describe the challenges they face in short feed supplies.

“We’re just trying to reduce numbers, and trying to reduce how many we are feeding. Because, there is no grass, and the hay we have is not going to last us through the winter,” explains Priscilla McBee, a small family cattle rancher. “It’s hard. Our fields are barren.”

Cattle rancher, Marty Schwarzkopf, usually sells 4000-6000 bales of hay to ranchers each year. This year, he’s only baled about 300.

“I feel for a lot of people. They’ve been doing this for years and years, and now, they don’t have anything to hold on to. They’re having to let go,” Schwarzkopf says.

The last time cows went to town in these kinds of numbers was in 2011, says Clinton Griffiths, host of AgDay.

Comparing the current situation to 2011, producers and market analysts describe this year as much different than a decade ago.

“There’s just no place, really anywhere in the country, that’s got any excess hay supply,” says Derrell Peel, Oklahoma State University livestock marketing specialist. “I think that’s going to limit what we can do in terms of sourcing hay. It’s going to limit what we can do in terms of relocating some cows, compared to that drought [in 2011 and 2012].”

“Year-to-date, beef cow slaughter is up 14% while inventory is down 2.4%,” says Michelle Rook, AgDay market reporter.

Peel adds, liquidation will likely continue as there is no relief in sight in the most recent 30-day outlook.

“We’ll probably lose another one million beef cows this year, or potentially even a little bit more than that,” Peel says.

Heifer slaughter is also up 4% with inventory down 3.5%, as more heifers are being placed in feedlots versus being kept for breeding, which is key as it indicates the lack of herd rebuilding, Peel adds.

Helping Cattle Cope with Summer Heat

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 20:10:32 GMT

Ready or not, summer heat has arrived. After a major heat stress event in parts of Kansas and Nebraska, the loss of over 10,000 cattle is nothing short of devastating.

The combination of hot temperatures, high humidity, and lack of air movement can cause severe cases of heat stress for cattle. This can result in reduced intakes and gains, and in extreme cases, death.

Cattle do not handle heat stress as well as humans. The range of temperature in which cattle do not use additional energy to maintain core body temperature is referred to as the thermoneutral zone. This zone generally ranges from 32°F to 75°F for cattle but can vary depending on metabolic size. When temperatures exceed the upper critical temperature, cattle expend energy in attempt to dissipate heat. Panting and elevated respiration and heart rate are signs that this is occurring. When temperatures remain above 70°F during the night, cattle are unable to recover before the next episode of heat exposure.

Some heat stress mitigation strategies to consider include:

First and foremost, providing plenty of water and space around water tanks for each animal. When the temperature is above 80°F, cattle require nearly twice as much water (up to 30 gallons per head per day).
Sprinklers with a large droplet size can be effective in cooling cattle and pen surfaces in dry conditions; however, limit use when humidity and moisture are high.
Removal of excess manure is critical. When manure builds up, it holds moisture and increases humidity.
Bedding pens is also an option to help lower the temperature of the pen surface.
Providing shade can help reduce the heat load on cattle up to 20 degrees. Again, providing adequate space per animal is important when using shade structures. Overcrowding will have very little production benefit.
Avoid working or transporting cattle during extreme temperatures. If necessary, handle cattle early in the mornings and not any time after 10 a.m.
Consider reducing the amount of feed delivered in the morning to help lower the heat load on cattle, starting the morning before a heat event occurs.
Improve air flow by incorporating tall mounds and placing cattle in pens with fewer windbreaks in the summer.
Monitor weather frequently for potential heat events. Keep an eye out for predicted temperatures in the high 80s and 90s, especially following a rain and in situations where the wind speed is going to be less than 5 mph for several days.

Being proactive rather than reactive is important for avoiding any train wrecks when it comes to heat stress.

Did High Heat And Humidity Really Cause Cattle Deaths In Kansas? The Latest Look at Potential Losses

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 19:11:09 GMT

Drought-plagued western Kansas recently saw rain. While the moisture was welcomed, it also coupled high humidity with high heat this week. As feedyards battled through the intense conditions to keep their cattle safe, the heat and humidity proved devastating , with estimates now pointing to feedlots seeing losses of 100 to 500 head per day.

An unconfirmed video of dead black-hided cattle made its rounds on social media this week. The rare scenario is something feedlot operators couldn’t avoid. Dr. Dan Thomson , a bovine vet who specializes in animal health welfare, recently spoke to Farm Journal’s Michelle Rook .

“If we have a rain event that increases the humidity in the environment, through mud and different things like that, followed by extreme temperatures with a decrease in wind, we can see these thermal heat indexes rise to where cattle accumulate heat,” Thomson says.

He says the scenario is similar to the impact of a natural disaster. While feedlots did everything possible to prepare and provide cattle relief, the climate conditions meant the cattle didn’t have a chance to cool down, and in some cases, the internal temperature rose too much, which caused the rare losses.

“During these bouts of extreme heat, the cattle can’t dissipate the heat at night because there’s not night cooling,” Thomson says. “And so this perfect storm, it’s no different than a tornado hitting a cattle feeding facility or a derecho. We have these natural disasters.”

Estimated Losses Still in Question

While there’s no way of knowing just how many cattle have died from the heat this week, Reuters quoted the Kansas Department of Health and Environment saying at least 2,000 head of cattle had been lost. One Drovers source says it’s very possible 5,000 cattle may have succumbed to the heat, but the talk of 10,000 head is likely an exaggeration of reality.

With herd culling is already taking place due to the drought this year, Mark Gold of StoneX Group says it will have an impact on the supply of cattle in the U.S.

“The rumors are that we’re losing 100 to 500 head per feedlot out here,” says Gold. “That’s a lot of cattle.

Losses Could Have Been Worse

No matter what the final total ends up being, those losses are difficult for feedyard operators and employees who Thomson says made a relentless effort to get the cattle water and comfort through bedding in order to help the cattle cool off.

“It’s something if our people on the ground wouldn’t have been doing the job that they’re doing, there would have been so much more death loss,” he says.

High Heat Expected to Stick Around

The record-breaking heat across the South and Midwest is something that may continue to be a factor in the months ahead. The extreme weather, including hail and flooding, can all be attributed to a ridge of high pressure parked over the country.

USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey says while the ridge of high pressure is parked over the country, it has been shape shifting the past few days.

“This year, 2022, it does appear that we have a rather intense ridge of high pressure,” says Rippey.

Rippey says a ridge of high pressure is an annual occurrence, conditions just vary based on where the ridge is located, and how intense it is.

“We saw it become established over the desert southwest, it’s made a run across the great plains now more recently into the Midwest, the mid-South, and even the Southeast with early triple digit heat, that in fact is maybe a bit of a warning sign ,” Rippey explains .

Rippey says as the ridge shape shifts, the outer edge creates what’s called a “ring of fire.” That ring can then cause severe storms, including the hail and flooding this week. He expects the ridge to stick around, but there’s no way of knowing exactly where the ridge remains parked, but he does expect hot and dry conditions in the souther plains.

Parts of Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas have seen recent rains. While it is prompting pasture conditions to slightly improve, Derrell Peel, Oklahoma State University livestock specialist, says damage from the drought has already been done.

“I think we’re looking at a record level of net cow culling up around 13% and probably a 3% to 4% decrease in the beef cow herd,” says Peel. “Even if the drought conditions changed dramatically from this point on, it’s almost too late for us to really recover from the loss and forage and the amount of cows we’ve already culled this year.”

Heat Warnings Sweep Across U.S.: What You Should Know

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 20:37:49 GMT

This week, dangerous heat is sweeping across Texas to Wisconsin to Ohio to Georgia.

It’s particularly important to watch out for yourself and each other when heat indexes reach 91 degrees or higher, as referenced by the Mayo Clinic. The heat index is a value calculated with the outside temperature and humidity—which is important as in high humidity environments you can’t effectively sweat. This makes people more prone to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

(Farm Journal)

Health experts say it can take several weeks to adjust to higher temperatures. With this sudden onset of wide-spread heat, it’s important everyone takes steps to stay safe.

Watch Out for Each Other

Iowa State Extension highlights how the signs of heat stress are often overlooked by the victim. As their report details, “The individual may at ﬁrst be confused or unable to concentrate, followed by more severe symptoms, such as fainting and/or collapsing. If heat stress symptoms occur, move the victim to a cool, shaded area, give him or her water, and immediately contact a supervisor or another individual to provide assistance.

8 Tips to Stay Safe Outside in Heat

Stay hydrated, which helps your body swat and keep a normal body temperature.
Eat light—but often.
Protect your skin. Wear hats with brims, sunblock, sunglasses. Reapply sunscreen every two hours (or more often if swimming or sweating.)
Wear loosefitting, lightweight clothing.
When possible, schedule activities in cooler part of day.
Take breaks
Take extra precautions with certain medications that affect your body’s hydration or ability to dissipate heat.
Be cautious if you have certain conditions or a history of previous heat illness.

To help everyone stay safe and be aware, Superior Ag Safety and Compliance Manager, Ryan Coleman, reminds everyone to make hydration and safety a priority in this video:

Come On In: The Ocean Temperatures Are Hot

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 14:59:37 GMT

Last year was hot. It was so hot, 2021 now holds the record for the hottest ocean temperatures ever. That’s according to an annual study published in “ Advances in Atmospheric Sciences .”

Earth’s average land and ocean surface temperature in 2021 was 1.51 degrees °F (0.84 of a degree C) above the 20th-century average, according to officials at NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

(Farm Journal)

2021 was the 45th consecutive year since 1977 in which global temperatures ranked higher than the 20th-century average, per NOAA , providing yet another indication of the effect of climate change on the planet. High ocean-heat content can contribute to sea-level rise.

Researchers blame human activity for rising water temperature, because oceans absorb heat from the atmosphere.

“The increase in carbon emissions will lead to more greenhouse gases in the atmosphere,” says Matt Yarosewick, AgDay meteorologist. “If we have more of these, they almost act as a blanket. Some of the solar radiation from the sun will get reflected back into space, but the radiation that makes it to the ground will then have to deal with the greenhouse gases on the way back out.”

When the sun heats the ground, he says, the ground heats the air. The solar radiation is absorbed by the ground and is then released in the form of heat into our atmosphere.

“Some of that heat is allowed to escape through the atmosphere and back into space, while some is held in by the greenhouse gases,” Yarosewick says. “This will then cause a warming effect over time of our overall global temperature.”

Water will absorb any heat and if the global temperatures go up, then the ocean temperatures should follow that same pattern, he explains. This also causes stronger storms.

“The warmer the water, the more moisture will be allowed to evaporate and increase not only rain rates and heavy precipitation but also the ‘fuel’ for the storms increases,” Yarosewick says.

Additional NOAA weather findings for 2021 :

The average annual sea ice cover in the Arctic was approximately 4.08-million square miles — the ninth-smallest annual average cover recorded between 1979 and 2021. The last seven years (2015-2021) had an annual sea ice extent that ranked among the 10 smallest on record, according to data from the National Snow and Ice Data Centeroffsite link.
There was an above-average number of tropical cyclones around the world in 2021, with a total of 94 named storms. This value ties with 1994 as the 10th-highest number of named storms in the 41-year record.
December’s average temperature across global land and ocean surfaces was 1.49 degrees °F (0.83 of a degree C) above the 20th-century average. This value was tied with 2016 as Earth’s fifth-warmest December in 142 years

Don’t Let Cold Weather Leave You Chapped: Protecting Teats in the Winter

Chapped lips and hands aren’t the only things we need to worry about now that we are in the middle of the winter season. Winter weather has a significant impact on teat skin. Cold weather can lead to teats drying, cracking, and chapping, providing more surface area for bacteria to thrive. Preparing for changes in the weather can help promote better teat health and reduce mastitis cases.

Manage the environment

We often talk about keeping cows clean and dry to prevent mastitis, but the environment can also impact teat health in cold temperatures. Teat skin is unique because it has no sweat, oil glands, or hair follicles. These characteristics make teats especially susceptible to cold temperatures. A wet environment increases the likelihood of damaged teats.

Chapping can occur when teats are exposed to air movement and drafts. Prevent cows from being directly exposed to wind as they leave the parlor and avoid rapid cold air movement in their housing area.

To dip or not to dip

Cracking and chapping of teats usually occur at temperatures less than 0° F. Temperatures can also impact which teat dips should and could be used. Teat dips that were being used during other times of the year can be used until temperatures drop below the freezing point. Check teat dip labels for suggested temperature ranges and freezing points. Symptoms of cold weather exposure may not become visible for 2 to 3 days. Avoid using barrier dips during cold spells because these dips tend to have a slower drying time because of the film they create.

At 20° F below zero, teats are at risk of frostbite. Winter dips are designed to be used during when teats could freeze. However, they often cost much more than a regular dip. Because the cold weather can impact the teat skin, high-emollient dips can be beneficial to teat health. Most high-emollient dips consist of at least 50% teat conditioners, which will hydrate and soften teat skin, leading to less chapping. However, these dips can have a slower drying time.

The goal of any teat dipping protocol should be to provide an effective germicide and teat conditioner. What should be avoided is allowing excess dip to freeze at the end of the teat. We are safe from this on most winter days, but dabbing the drop off the teat end will prevent teat end damage on bitterly cold days or cold wind chills.