As temperatures climb during mid-summer months, livestock requirements change in response to heat stress.

Dr. Alfredo DiCostanzo, UNL Beef Systems Extension Educator, says that there are several ways livestock producers can help their animals beat the heat, or at least provide some relief.

“We need to consider first water access…I propose that about 5% of the cattle population in a pen should be able to stand at the waterer comfortably drinking water,” DiCostanzo said. “And then of course shade is an excellent resource because shade will reduce the feeling of heat by about four degrees Fahrenheit.”

For more information visit Resources for Helping Cattle Deal with Heat Stress | UNL Beef | Nebraska or AWDN for more weather details.