Extreme Heat will be the norm for Northern Plains Livestock Producers this week with temperatures ranging from the upper 90s to over 100 degrees. That along with drought will make it difficult on animals and producers. SDSU Extension Veterinarian Dr. Russ Daly says four factors make up the heat stress that will present challenges including temperature, humidity, wind speed and cloud cover.

South Dakota State Veterinarian Dr. Dustin Oedekoven says there have been no disease issues brought on the drought but one big concern is water quality.

Daly recommends some cooling tips producers should look at include wetting down pens and sprinkling animals and for feedlot cattle make sure there’s some type of shade available.

Oedekoven says having enough feed and good quality forages remains an issue so producers have had to look at possible alternative sources of feed.

The hottest point of the week in South Dakota is expected to come on Wednesday.