Feeding Livestock After a Flood

Livestock producers in the flooded areas of Colorado are going to be facing some challenges feeding their livestock in the near future and maybe this winter and into the spring. Since this is something that impacts all graziers from time to time, I searched the web for the clearest, most pertinent information from a variety of sources experience with flood damage. I’m hoping that most of you will never need to use this information, but do save this article if you’re located in places where flooding occurs from time to time.

Here are the top three tips:

• Wear a dust mask (N-95 or higher) or work in a filtered cab to protect yourself from the harmful effects of silt dust. I’ve already noticed an amazing amount of dust in our area as some areas begin to dry out.
• Store flood damaged crops separately from the rest of your feed. This makes it easier to dispose of it and to switch feeds if you find that the flooded feed causes problems for your livestock.
• Get assistance from your veterinarian to nip health problems in the bud. Flood waters and silt can carry pathogens and contaminants. You may need to administer additional vaccinations to protect animals.

Maintaining Livestock Health After a Flood

This information comes to us from Mississippi State University Extension. In one quick page you’ll find tips on protecting animals from pneumonia, foot rot, and other post-flood diseases, pasture hazards, and caring for Dairy Cows.

Salvaging Crops After Flooding –
Recovery of Alfalfa, Irrigated Pastures and Hay

This fact sheet from the University of Florida provides information on the following:

• Impacts of growth stage, temperature submersion and silt on alfalfa and it’s recovery
• Ladino clover and grass species recovery
• Reseeding Tips
• Ensiling perennial species conventional upright or temporary trench silos
• What to do with unharvested, flood damaged hay fields