Blizzard & Extreme Cold

All Blizzard & Extreme Cold Content

Infographic with steps that say 4 hours in a refrigerator, 48 hours in a full freezer, and 24 hours in a half-full freezer.

Power Outages and Your Cold Foods

South Dakota is no stranger to power outages and power surges from weather events. Learn some key actions to take before, during and after power outages to keep your cold foods safe.

Ranchers meeting with USDA agents in a farmyard.

A Disaster-Ready Strategy for Cattle Operations

Cattle producers can minimize risk and maximize resilience. Having a written emergency action plan and routine exercise of the plan helps ensure animal welfare and business continuity.

Small group of bison grazing winter pasture.

Considerations for Winter Bison Management

Although many tools and techniques developed for cattle management have been adapted for bison, there are some stark differences between the two species that producers should consider when managing bison on winter range.

A small herd of cattle grazing in snow-covered, spring pasture.

Bunch the Cow Herd

Reproduction is one of the biggest drivers of economic success. Cows stressed by cold, wind, snow, and mud will put energy resources into body condition maintenance and lactation prior to recycling.

several cattle standing and sitting by a windbreak

Cold Weather Management Options

Winter weather conditions impact cattle as well as the cattle producers. Cold temperatures combined with wind creates more stress and increased management to achieve similar animal performance.

Fireproof file safe with important documents inside.

Prepare Your Finances for Emergencies

Preparing your financial records preemptively can help your family stay safe and prepared when disaster strikes. Learn some expert tips for getting started today!

SUV driving on a snow and tree lined road

Winter Car Kits

Prepare a winter car kit to keep yourself safe when traveling during the winter.

Installing weather stripping around a window.

Save Money by Winterizing Your Home

Fall is the perfect time to begin preparing your home for colder winter temperatures and the higher energy costs that come with them. Learn some expert tips for preparing your home today!

Three cattle feeding on supplemental forage near cornstalks.

Cold Temperatures Impact Forage Intake

Decreasing temperatures impact the amount of energy required by cattle. Learn some management considerations to reduce the possibility of metabolic disturbance during periods of colder weather.

Group of bulls in a pen with winter bedding.

Winter Management of Herd Bulls

Proactive winter bull management can positively impact reproductive performance in the upcoming breeding season. Learn some expert tips for getting herd bulls prepared for the colder months ahead.