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Hacks to Streamline Calving Season

by Brandi Buzzard Frobose, Editor and Director of Communications

All across the country, ranchers are in the midst of calving season and even though weather patterns and challenges vary by region, the overall goal remains the same: live calves and good mamas.

Because of the critical nature of calving, we surveyed cattle country for some of the best advice to make this season bearable and successful. While some of the advice is scientifically based – such as feeding at night to have more calves during daylight hours – a larger segment is somewhat ingenious and may possibly relieve a pressure point or challenge during this hectic and stressful season.

Equipping the Headquarters

Most ranches have a “home base” or headquarters of sorts – whether it be the garage, a shed or a barn. And while headquarters may vary, the fact remains that equipping and stocking it is of utmost importance. Preparing in advance and making sure the barn has everything needed for warming up calves, and people, can alleviate a lot of headaches. Stocking a cabinet with lots of old sheets, towels, extra socks, heating pads, blankets and other necessities will help speed up the inevitable occurrence of caring for cold, wet calves. From a convenience standpoint, a washing machine and dryer in the barn will help with the laundry and save trips to and from the ranch house.

While stocking up on linens, be sure to load up another cabinet with an electric kettle that can be used for coffee, tea, cups of soup and quick warm water for mixing colostrum. And on the door of said cabinet, tape a list of the reasons why you love cows, ranching and your ranching partner.

Don’t Neglect the Crew

Speaking of people, it’s hard to take care of a herd if the crew isn’t taken care of – both mentally and physically. Sleep deprivation is a beast and can really hamper someone’s attitude and cognitive ability. Try assigning heifer checks based on functionality – the person who cannot function (or is tremendously unpleasant) after waking every two to three hours could be more useful by checking at 11 p.m. and then again at 5 a.m. Parents of newborns can attest to the effectiveness of teamwork in this situation.

Additionally, communication cannot be underscored enough. Making sure that everyone on the calving crew is updating records in a shared notebook, mobile phone application or spreadsheet can help alleviate miscommunication or duplicative efforts. A brief update a few times per day can bring everyone up to speed on what to watch for and any problems.

Much in the same way calves may need a boost of energy to liven up, ranchers should make sure they are fueling themselves as well. Access the aforementioned cabinet in the calving barn for a quick can of soup, beef jerky snack or employ a crockpot for easy-to-prep meals for everyone. Keep the fridge stocked with beverages of choice for refueling, whether it be a sports drink or an energy drink –sometimes a little boost can make all the difference.

The calving crew works hard in adverse conditions. Keep quick food options available as well as extra gloves and dry chore clothes.

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