Op-ed: Winter preparedness in Portage County

By Seth Kannberg, Portage County Extension Office

Now that we’ve dug out from the latest snowstorm that barreled through the county, long-range weather forecasts suggest temperatures may finally climb above freezing next week. If it can warm up a bit, it would be a great opportunity to prepare both for the next time we see frigid temperatures and for the next snow squall that passes over. Whether you’re caring for livestock, your family, pets, or all three, there are some important considerations to keep in mind now before it’s necessary. 

For livestock such as beef cattle the critical temperature is 32 degrees. Assuming a normal winter coat and a healthy body conditioning score of a 5 or 6, when temperatures are between 23 degrees and 32 degrees the total daily digestible nutrients needed increases by up to 8%. When temperatures drop below 23 degrees, daily feed intake may need to increase by 10% or more. This is necessary so livestock can remain warm since, without enough nutrients, they will begin to burn fat to produce heat. It’s also important to keep livestock that live outdoors away from direct wind whenever possible to maintain that body heat. A natural tree line or steel sheeting is perfect. In a pinch though, round bales stacked two high can create a solid shelter for cattle but a checkerboard pattern with two feet between bales is advised in case of extremely high winds. 

Of equal importance to feed is water. If your livestock depend upon their water being supplied by a well, ensure a generator is powering your well pump. Consider an alternative water source that does not require a power source for animals to access. What about water tank heaters? Do you have a few backups at the ready? A busted water tank heater when temperatures plunge down to the single digits could spell disaster. Similarly, we need to have a surplus of fuel to be able to access our livestock at any time. Aim to have enough fuel already stockpiled for machinery, equipment, and generators to last at least three days, preferably five. 

During daylight hours next week, check all buildings to ensure they’re still winter-worthy. Is a barn roof sagging from the weight of all this snow we’ve gotten? Check for gaps and cracks that have formed in the walls and foundation. While you’re at it, look over your gutters and drains and ensure they’re clear of any obstructions so when this snow melts it flows away properly. Make sure the insulation around your exposed pipes are sound or purchase insulation material if you haven’t already. For the vehicles you regularly use during the winter, test that the batteries are still charged and that the tire pressure has remained adequate. If heavy snowfall is in the forecast it can help anyone less familiar with your property if you mark the driveways and ponds out with stakes before the snow starts to pile up. 

Lastly, in case of extended power outages, it can be vital to have about two weeks’ worth of water already saved for your family and pets. The general recommendation is a gallon of water per person, per day. Just before a major snowstorm is going to hit we often see the grocery shelves empty of things like bread, eggs, and milk but a better option is to have already purchased and stored away nutritious foods with a long shelf-life. Foods such as rice, dried beans, honey, dried fruit, nuts, and tuna can last for years before needing replacement. Most importantly, none of these foods require refrigeration. During a power outage, many food items kept in a refrigerator typically only last about four hours before they either need to be relocated to a cooler with ice or tossed in the trash. One final thing to add to your emergency kit would be flashlights with extra batteries, candles, and gas-powered lamps. In a snow emergency and in life, a little bit of preparation can prevent a whole lot of trouble. 

If you have any questions or would like to discuss the feasibility of relocating your farm to Florida, give the Portage County Extension Office and myself a call at 330-235-7649 or email me at kannberg.1@osu.edu. Stay safe out there Portage County!