By Blake Jackson
Spring in Pennsylvania is often associated with mud, but it can be a problem anytime due to the weather. Muddy pastures can lead to health issues in livestock, including foot rot, scald, and navel infections in calves. Mud can also contaminate hay stored outdoors, introducing harmful bacteria and pathogens that can cause illness when consumed. Young animals are especially susceptible.
How Mud Affects Pastures and Hay
Mud forms when there is little to no vegetation cover, allowing soil to become saturated and churned by livestock hooves. This can happen in continuously grazed areas or around feeders and watering stations. Muddy areas can decrease the amount of food livestock eat, reducing their weight gain, milk production, and overall performance.
Preventing Mud and Protecting Livestock
There are several ways to minimize mud and protect livestock health. Storing hay on pallets or indoors keeps it out of contact with mud and prevents contamination. Hay should not be stored in fields that tend to be wet or flood prone. Directing water away from pastures and feed storage areas helps prevent mud from forming. Creating gravel or concrete pads around feeders and gates reduces mud in high-traffic areas. Temporary fencing can be used to keep livestock away from wet areas.
Rotational Grazing for Healthier Pastures
Rotational grazing allows pastures to recover between grazings. This promotes taller grass with better ground cover, which absorbs water more effectively and reduces mud formation. Larger root systems from taller grass also improve soil structure and drainage. By adjusting stocking rates and rotating animals based on pasture height, farmers can ensure there is enough forage for their livestock while maintaining healthy pastures.
Hay Storage and Harvest Techniques
When harvesting hay, cutting at a height of 3-4 inches helps prevent mud from contaminating the hay. Using a bacterial inoculant during storage can discourage harmful bacteria growth. Targeting a specific moisture content during harvest can also help prevent the growth of bacteria.
Dedicated Areas for Livestock During Wet Periods
Having a designated sacrifice lot or heavy-use area can provide livestock with a dry place to stay during wet weather and minimize pasture damage.
Vaccinations and Veterinary Care
While there is no vaccine for many mud-related diseases, vaccinations are available for some Clostridium bacteria. If you suspect your livestock are sick, consult a veterinarian immediately.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-r-j-seymour
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock