In some regions, cattle may be transitioning from winter annuals to perennial forage, while in others, the grazing season is just beginning. Nevertheless, it’s time to check last-minute items off the list to ensure pastures are safe and animals are healthy.
While routine maintenance should be a priority throughout the year, Sydney Vanderhoff with South Dakota State University Extension notes five actions to take at the front end of the season. The beef nutrition field specialist provides the following checklist to complete before opening the gate for spring grazing.
1. Buy mineral. The spring flush of rapidly growing grass is often deficient in magnesium, which deprives grazing livestock of the mineral as well. Grass tetany occurs when animals’ blood magnesium concentrations get too low, causing neurological symptoms such as a staggering gait, muscle twitching in the flank, and hyper behavior.
Vanderhoff states the risk of grass tetany can be heightened in lactating cows, and supplying a mineral supplement two to three weeks prior to pasture turnout will help animals build their magnesium stores. If it’s too late for that, at least provide supplementation through the first several weeks of grazing to limit incidence of grass tetany.
“A high-quality vitamin and mineral supplement should be provided to ensure cattle receive all necessary micronutrients for high-level performance,” Vanderhoff says. “Be sure to reference your specific mineral tag for recommended consumption levels.”
2. Repair fences. Walk along perimeter fences and confirm they are in good condition before turning cattle out. Vanderhoff recommends making regular fence inspections throughout the grazing season as well. For electric fences, check the charger box and test the voltage to ensure all components are up to par.
3. Monitor forage. Above average temperature this spring may have encouraged early green up in perennial pastures. Even so, turning cattle out before plants reach adequate height can be detrimental to their root systems and regrowth.
“Proper timing of pasture turnout is critical for optimal forage production,” Vanderhoff asserts. “Monitor grazing readiness of the predominate grass species; you may have to delay your grazing start date.”
4. Scrub water tanks. Water is the most important nutrient for livestock production. It can also be the most limiting. Clean out water tanks and troughs to avoid manure contamination and prevent algae growth. Vanderhoff suggests this can improve water palatability as well, which can promote better intake in grazing animals and counter dehydration.
5. Administer fly control. If fly control is necessary, administer treatments while cattle are accessible before pasture turn out. These can range from ear tags to pour-on products. Vanderhoff notes some mineral supplements also contain ingredients that can help reduce fly pressure. If dewormer and vaccines are typically administered to cattle, do so at this time, too.
In addition to this list, Vanderhoff encourages farmers to consider how they will treat animals if they become sick while out on pasture. Whether this involves darting cattle, setting up panels, or using permanent facilities, having a plan and being proactive will pay off in unpredictable situations.
