With summer temperatures climbing, North Dakota cattle producers are being encouraged to closely monitor livestock for heat stress and ensure adequate water supplies. NDSU Extension livestock management specialist Lacey Quail said water quality becomes increasingly important during hot weather. “Producers should really be looking out for signs of heat stress during the hotter days ahead and making sure cattle have shade and access to quality, clean water,” said Quail. “Getting a water quality test is pretty crucial, especially if conditions start to get drier and we see more evaporation in our groundwater.” Quail said decisions about herd expansion later this year will largely depend on forage supplies and pasture conditions.
