Oklahoma Farmers Keeping Cattle Safe During Below Freezing Temperatures

These temperatures are nothing to mess around in however what about these that may’t escape the chilly? 

Farming is an integral a part of Oklahoma’s financial system, many farmers getting ready for months for this chilly snap. 

“It’s a problem typically however…it’s simply what we do on a regular basis,” Joe Parker, the Proprietor of Highland Ranch in Talala Oklahoma, stated.  

Farmers across the state are braving the chilly to maintain their livestock.  

“We’re simply making an attempt to maintain them wholesome, preserve them going, preserve them heat,” Parker stated.  

“It’s a problem as a result of individuals don’t wish to be out throughout these temperatures,” Kristy Wicker, the Schooling & Communications Supervisor for The WildCare Basis, stated.  

These temperatures will be particularly harsh on younger cattle.  

“I’ll drive by as we’re going via every pastor; we will likely be searching for newborns ensuring if they’re too chilly, we’ll carry them in, get them warmed again up,” Parker stated.  

“If shelter isn’t doable, constructing a wind block to guard the animals the perfect you’ll be able to from the weather that may be useful. Additionally, some thick brush if the animals can get right down to some thick brush that might shield them from wind or rain,” Lee Benson, the Public Info Officer for the Oklahoma Division of Agriculture, Meals & Forestry, stated.  

Under freezing temperatures can even trigger a risk to their water supply.  

“One of many major issues I feel that animals want through the winter is entry to recent water. When our temperatures get this chilly pure water assets like creeks and streams can freeze up,” Wicker stated.  

“If you may get to the water supply and warmth it up slightly bit to verify it’s not icing up, that will wish to assist the animals wish to drink extra to stave off potential dehydration,” Benson stated.  

Feeding extra often can even assist animals keep heat.  

“As they’re processing that hay and that feed it warms them up from the within out, so long as you’re giving them lots to eat,” Parker stated.    

Because of the chilly climate, the Division of Agriculture stated it’s additionally a good suggestion to work in pairs if doable.