Drought: Livestock
All Drought: Livestock Content
Planning for Breeding Season in Dry Conditions
Drier-than-normal conditions present added stress to producers and their herds in preparation for breeding season. During this critical period, producers should focus on making sound management decisions to maintain performance and profitability.
Can You Break the Hydro-illogical Cycle?
Regardless of the time of year, it is critical to start thinking about the next drought before we are in it. Learn some key strategies for breaking the Hydro-Illogical Cycle by leveraging drought motioning resources and creating a plan for your operation.
Poisonous Plants on Rangelands: Deathcamas and Lupine
With prolonged drought conditions throughout many areas of South Dakota, there is an increase of invasive weeds and poisonous plants on rangelands. Identification of poisonous plants is crucial to ensure livestock production is not compromised.
Poisonous Plants on Rangelands: Locoweed and Crazyweed
Locoweed and crazyweed are found throughout South Dakota rangelands, and both can cause livestock poisoning.The names locoweed and crazyweed are often used interchangeably. However, there are notable differences between the species.
Five Range Management Principles: #1 Adaptive Management
Adaptive management is a process that livestock producers can incorporate into their operation to increase operation flexibility and adjust to changing conditions.
Culling Decisions Due to Drought
Learn some key considerations for developing culling strategies that align with the goals and objectives of your operation when facing potential prolonged drought conditions.
Planning Forage Needs
Inventorying and planning for hay and other forage feed needs is essential every year, especially when production is uncertain due to drought or excess moisture.
Livestock Tools for Managing Through Drought
As drought conditions continue, ranchers are faced with making some difficult decisions. South Dakota State University Extension offers multiple tools and resources that can be used to help make the best management decisions for your operation.
Prussic Acid Precautions
During periods of drought, it is important to aware of the factors that can be a concern during these conditions, specifically nitrates and prussic acid. It is important to take precautions when using feeds that could contain one or both compounds.
Drought Management Tips for Beef Cattle Producers
Fact sheet with tips for Beef Cattle Producers for Drought Management