News

New snow brings hardships to producers

By Scott Wagar

03/19/2013

Spring in Bottineau County might be here on the calendar, but with the snow above average for this time of the year, and temperatures staying below average, local producers and ranchers might see some difficulties when it comes to spring planting and the current calving season.

According to James Kapp, county agent for Bottineau County, the present weather isn’t cooperating with local farmers’ spring plans.

“The amount of snow fall that we have received is going to make for a late spring. It all depends on how fast or slow the snow melts. Hopefully, it will melt fairly slowly so that it gives time for this moisture to soak in instead of just running off,” Kapp said. “I do believe the snow will cause late planting. The snow might cause some areas of land to be under water or too wet to be planted. This may cause some prevent planting. Also, when there is wet ground some farmers might choose to do some conventional tilling in order to dry up the ground.”

When it come to ranchers in the county, if cold temperatures continue it could have a harsh affect on calves.

“Cold weather can cause numerous problems during calving season. When cold weather is present it takes a lot more feed in order to meet the nutritional requirements for the cows. Also, cold weather can cause frozen ears and feet on calves, which occurs from the mother licking the calf and then the calf’s ears and feet freeze,” Kapp said. “Cattle also react a lot to mother nature. When cold temps or snow storms occur, sometimes cows can tend to calve earlier. Also, calves can suffer from sickness such as pneumonia.”

After the precipitation over the weekend, and into the early part of the week, one thing is certain for producers and ranchers, they hope that spring comes soon.