The most rewarding time on a ranch is the time of new life – newborn calves hitting the ground. Calves have resiliency and spirit and often thrive even when born in the wrong circumstances or weather. Still, any beef producer will have the occasional calf who was stuck or had some other mishap that requires extra care.

Cold weather is a critical time for proper care of both humans and animals. Severe winter weather is stressful and can occur suddenly. Make sure you’re prepared now to avoid extra stress in the moment.

After several years of mild winters, agricultural weather forecasters are warning ranchers of possible blizzards this winter. Producers should care for their herds before, during and after snowstorms. However, before they repair water lines, collect medical supplies or hay bales for windbreaks, the first step is to develop a blizzard plan well in advance of a storm’s arrival.

Colder weather means your cows' energy requirements are higher. Keep these tips in mind to determine how your cows are doing and to help them thrive this winter.

Winter strikes the Midwest with winds that strip soil from dormant fields, stealing nutrients and hard-earned investment. Learn how to thwart this soil thief with carefully placed windbreaks.

Open your weather app. Is it 80ºF, or do you see 80ºF in the forecast? Are nighttime temperatures staying above 70ºF? If so, your cattle are at risk for heat stress. Even if you didn’t answer “yes” to either, chances are high that your cattle will be exposed to heat stress conditions at some point this summer.

The winter months and routinely low air temperatures present unique challenges for feedlot cattle, particularly in terms of maintaining health and productivity. Cold temperatures, fluctuating weather conditions and increased feed requirements can induce stress in cattle and result in health complications.

There are several strategies that producers can use to help reduce the negative effects of winter weather on cattle and help ensure feed resources are used efficiently.