Beef Quality Assurance Tip of the Month: Prevent weather stress

Weather stress from cold temperatures along with wind, rain, and snow can be reduced with proper management. Cattle that are in a body condition score of 6 or greater handle cold weather better because the extra condition (i.e. fat) helps insulate them. Making sure cattle have access to either a natural (e.g. wooded area, hill, etc.) or man-made windbreak will also reduce stress. Reducing weather stress will decrease the number of calories that cattle burn to keep warm and will help them come through the winter in better condition. Are you a certified Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) producer? If you’re not, the training is free and available online and in person at select meetings across the state. Read more…