Recent weather events have created a new environment for feedlots in northwest Iowa and elsewhere. Torrential rains have turned once-dry feedlots to mud, and accompanying hail may have bruised cattle. Iowa State University Extension Beef Specialist Beth Doran says it’s important to have a strategy in place to deal with the issues.

“Wet, muddy conditions reduce weight gain and can compromise cattle health, so the first thing to tackle is mud,” she says. “While not perfect or easy, there are some emergency strategies for dealing with mud.”

Here are some suggestions:

• Where possible, place whole round bales of cornstalks, straw or hay on areas with less mud. The cattle will tear up the bales and lay on the bedding.
• If you cannot access dirt surfaces of the feedlot, scrape the bunk apron and concrete-surfaced areas to provide a dry, solid surface for cattle to lay down. Scrape the apron regularly to keep it dry and clean.