Livestock farmers bulking up food for cattle during winter weather
[gtxvideo vid=”PuTgFxNT” playlist=”” pid=”OTSe9U1y” thumb=”http://player.gtxcel.com/thumbs/PuTgFxNT.jpg” vtitle=”Livestock Winter Dangers”]
MADISON COUNTY, Tenn. — With Tennessee under a state of emergency, the wintry mix and dramatic dips in temperatures can take a toll on livestock across the region. Scott Woolfolk is a 5th-generation cattle farmer in Madison county. He said maintaining his herd of 300 Hereford comes with challenges during winter months. “If those little fellas get wet and the temperature change goes back and forth, it’s just asking for a problem like pneumonia and sickness,” he said. Woolfolk said healthy cows eat a lot. Jake Mallard with the UT Ag Extension Office in Jackson said it’s crucial for livestock to eat more during cold days and nights. “Every temperature below 32 increases their nutrient intake of 1 percent,” Mallard said. Mallard said livestock regulate body temperature through digestion. Woolfolk said he’s increased hay usage on his farm by about 33 percent more this week. “It’s pretty much an all day job to keep them fed and checked,” he said. Even though pieces of ice are on their fur, Mallard said cows don’t have to stay inside a barn.”They just have to have a break, like a tree line or a hillside to break the wind off of them to keep them somewhat out of the wind,” he said. Woolfolk said he’s making exceptions for the new calves and heifers. “We bring them inside to the barn and keep them warm inside,” he said. Woolfolk said it’s worth the extra precautions to protect his livestock and his livelihood.
