Wildfires undoubtedly are one of the most challenging natural disasters, and when they occur, they create immense hardship for our farming and ranching families and greater rural communities.

Whether they’re man-made or natural disasters, emergencies such as tornados, hurricanes, wildfires, floods, severe winter storms, severe dust storms, etc., may put people, property and animals at risk.

From COVID-19 to governmental policy changes to H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) outbreaks, the unpredictable is coming at us at a faster and faster pace. When making your contingency and continuity plans, here are some of the key areas of preparedness you should consider.

In the third and final segment of our coverage from the NCBA national convention, the team previews the March issue of Progressive Cattle. Abby visits with Elanco's Wayne Ayers about improving conception rates with the proper vaccine strategy. Then Tyrell sits down with Mark McCully to discuss the American Angus Association's Industry Insights survey and what benefits that data can have for American producers. Finally, Carrie talks with veterinarian Brandon Treichler about developing a crisis management plan and how that can protect ranches and the people who make them so special.

The exact location and intensity of summer thunderstorms is somewhat unpredictable. Don’t allow the frequency of storm watches lull you into complacency. Severe weather – such as a tornado – can form quickly and turn deadly in just moments.

With winter quickly approaching, preparing your ranch’s cattle-handling equipment, buildings and machinery becomes time-sensitive. It’s critical that livestock are handled safely and that handlers remain productive even when Mother Nature drops the temperature.