Module 3: Climate Adaptive Strategies
4. Reduce Heat Stress
With temperature and number of days greater than 95 °F expected to increase, livestock and plants have greater risk of heat stress. This can lead to decreased production and animal fertility. Livestock can start experiencing mild heat stress when the Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) reaches 68 °F. Maintaining best management practices, mitigating heat stress risks, improving infrastructure where possible, and altering crop management will build resilience, protect livestock and plants, and preserve profits for producers.
Improve Infrastructure Within Facilities
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Increase barn air flow with roof venting or open barn siding
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Build or modify facilities to improve climate control using fans, misters, soakers, and other features
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Reduce barn heat sources and increase energy efficiency by using LED lights in facilities
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Alter crop system management for drought and heat
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Adjust timing of planting to account for longer growing seasons or to avoid heat stress during critical plant development stages
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Focus on soil health and water management to maintain soil moisture and water resources
Maintain Livestock Health Baselines
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Continue or improve best management practices relating to nutrition, exercise, housing, water access, disease management, and biosecurity procedures, as good health is critical for being less susceptible to change
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Match stocking density to barn and pasture resources for animal comfort, disease prevention, and efficient forage production
Mitigate Heat Stress Risks in Livestock
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Provide or increase shade in pastures with trees or structures
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Increase access to clean, fresh water ideally in a cool or shaded area
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Increase herd surveillance for disease
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Increase monitoring of animal temperature for early signs of heat stress
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Optimize feed to match nutrient needs during periods of reduced intake such as with high quality forage, more grain, or supplemental fats
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Provide partial or total shelter to reduce sun exposure
