Tag Archives winter
Cameras make a difference in winter calving
Winter calving can be a challenge, but cameras make it easier
Winter is here in full force, and freezing temperatures, large dumps of snow and short days can make winter calving a challenge for seed stock producers. However, technologies such as calving cameras can help make it much easier by saving time and labour. For many, it has become a necessary tool on their operations. Winter […] Read more
COMMENT: Why winter makes you more vulnerable to colds – a public health nurse explains the science behind the season
Being cold isn't why you get a cold. But it is true that cold weather makes it easier to catch respiratory viruses such as the cold and flu. Research also shows that lower temperatures are associated with higher COVID-19 rates.
Prairie forecast update: Storms roll in
Updates forecast issued Feb. 21, 2024
The weather models are coming into agreement with up coming storm system. The low was forecasted to develop over southern Alberta on Sunday with widespread snow developing to the north and west of the low. This placed the Edmonton region in the main snow band with 10 or so centimetres forecasted to fall across this region. The snow should move out quickly on Monday as cold arctic air pours southwards behind the low dropping temperatures to below average, but only for a couple of day.
Warmer winter likely across Canada
High probability of warm spring to follow, long-range forecast shows
Warmer than normal temperatures are expected across all of Canada through the winter months, with average precipitation for most of the agricultural areas of the Prairies, according to the latest long-range seasonal forecast from Environment and Climate Change Canada, released Dec. 31.
Winter feeding management for cattle
Nutrition with Barry Yaremcio
Cattle are fed over winter using a variety of methods. The level of complexity and mechanization depends on the operation and management. The overall objective is to keep cows in good condition, healthy and productive. For any system to work, accurate animal and bale weights, along with a feed inventory of all feeds are needed. […] Read more
Deer and elk take a bite out of winter feed
As Alberta’s wildlife populations balloon, who will pick up the dinner cheque becomes a pressing question for beef producers
Wildlife and livestock co-exist on pasture throughout the summer. However, in winter when livestock are being fed, wildlife can become a nuisance. Across Alberta, many producers are dealing with wildlife in winter feed, but how many are experiencing problems is not known. “It’s pretty ubiquitous throughout the province, but what changes is species,” says Mark […] Read more
Feeding cattle this winter
There are a number of 'first steps' you can take to develop a balanced ration
Feed supplies are deficient in many areas of the country. Stretching limited forage feed supply while keeping animals healthy, in good condition and maintaining a high level of production and reproduction will be the challenge. Forages such as hay, greenfeed, silage, straw and forage-seed aftermath are essential in a ruminant ration. Along with providing nutrients, […] Read more
Shelter, feed keys to successful winter calving
A Charolais producer and a beef specialist share tips for calving in the bitter cold of winter
Wanda Snobolen’s passion for her Charolais purebreds shines through when she talks about the care she takes when they’re calving. “When you’re calving and it’s -20 degrees out there, you have to get them dry — that is key,” she says. Depending on how cold it is, she brings the calves into a heated workshop […] Read more
Plan ahead for winter calving
Vet Advice with Dr. Ron Clarke
In Canada, cold weather potentially spans five to six months. Generally, December, January and February are considered cold months, although winter weather can start in November and last through late March or early April. Successful management of calving in cold weather requires planning. Consider the nutritional needs of bred heifers and cows before calving. Adequate […] Read more
Withstanding extreme cold while winter calving
While many producers prefer spring calving, Matthew Ramsey shifted his calving season to January to avoid Manitoba’s wet April weather
Matthew Ramsey would much rather calve in January than in April. At least in January, he says, you know what you’re getting into. “We got to the point where April sucked every year,” he says. “Eventually, we came to the conclusion that we weren’t happy with April, we’re either going to go earlier or later […] Read more