THE MOST IMPORTANT STAGES IN PREPARING THE ANGUS FARM FOR WINTER
If, in the first article of this series, we were talking about how to prepare the Angus farm for the winter, two of the most important actions in this management phase are the preparation of the stables and the silos.
Even though the Angus breed is easily adaptable and does not require major investment in the stables, a wind protection and a bed of straw on the ground is needed. In preparing this type of establishment, the need for materials is small, but essential.
In order to ensure the minimum protection of the animals, a “L” or “U” windshield is constructed from hay bales that are installed in the dominant wind direction of the respective parcel. In some cases, more complex shields are also used, depending on the capacity of the farm and the possibilities, building a 3-sided shield on the pasture from tarpaulin and roof. This type of stable is open and is it not indicated for the Aberdeen Angus breed to close the establishments. Compaction of livestock in stables is not a solution, because humidity resulting from condensation may increase the risk of animal disease.
This period of the summer months is the quietest period of the year for farmers, with all the mobilization for the winter training. If there are stables specially arranged for Angus cattle, it is also possible to realize the cleaning of the indoor stables.
After these preparations, the farmer must ensure the necessary feeding front for the cattle and even the watering place. Higher efficiency in spreading feed during winter helps to reduce costs and to minimize losses. It is therefore advisable the cementation of the feeding space to keep the fodder clean and accessible to the cattle during wet winter periods.
Silo preparation is the second action that takes place during this period. Starting with the first mowing of grass, storage of animal feed is commenced. The process begins with the preparation of the storage batteries for grass, corn and other cereals. The concrete walls of the batteries allow the storage of the silo layer and the pressing with heavy machinery at each new level. Depending on the size of the batteries, the process of filling such a space may take up to a few days, making storage and covering it as fast as possible. Each silo training specialist can decide if the concentrated fodder is added to the inoculum for fermentation or water will be enough.
At the end of the operation, the silo is insulated with a special protective wrap and left for at least 3 weeks for fermentation. Subsequently, it can already be introduced into animal feed. During low temperatures, due to the fact that the cold reduces the efficiency of digestion, it will be taken into account the increase of calories in the diet of the cattle (especially bulls and calves), so that they can cope with the harsh environmental conditions.
Collaboration between farm and livestock management ensures the desired results, helps to increase efficiency and improve performance. Angus cattle, not being pretentious, have high disease resistance and are rapidly recovering from harsh winter conditions