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Midwest cattle producers brace for winter storm

The Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association feeder council chairman says protecting livestock from winter storms begins with preparation.

Richard Pesek is a cow/calf producer in southwest Minnesota and tells Brownfield the feed supply needs to be secured.

“If and when the snow hits, you need your feed handy.  It makes it a lot easier than having to move snow to get to the feed.”

The National Weather Service is predicting heavy snowfall today and tomorrow for many parts of the Midwest, where Minnesota could receive a foot or more.

Pesek says it’s important to get calves bedded if possible, and fill up the cattle ahead of the storm.

“Out here in southwest Minnesota, sometimes when we get a foot of snow we (also) get 40 to 50mph winds.  It can be a day or two before we get to (the cattle) again.”

Pesek says following the storm, producers should clean out bunks and pens, get fresh bedding down and let the cows rest and recuperate.