As livestock owners, ensuring the safety and well-being of our animals is of utmost importance. While pastures provide essential grazing grounds, they can also harbor potential dangers in the form of toxic plants and weather-related hazards. This comprehensive guide will help you understand and mitigate these risks to keep your animals safe and healthy.

Identifying Toxic Plants in Your Pastures

Pastures that seem ideal for grazing may contain harmful or deadly plants to livestock. It’s crucial to be able to recognize these toxic plants and take steps to manage or remove them from your pastures. Here are some common toxic plants to watch out for:

1. Cherry Trees (Prunus species):
   • Toxic Parts: The leaves, stems, and pits (seeds) of cherry trees contain cyanogenic compounds. When these parts are damaged or wilted, such as during thunderstorms, they release cyanide gas, which can quickly lead to poisoning if ingested by animals.
   • Symptoms: Cyanide poisoning in livestock can cause rapid onset of difficulty breathing, bright red mucous membranes, seizures, and even death.
   • Management: Regularly inspect your pastures, especially after storms, for down cherry trees and promptly remove any fallen branches or wilted leaves.
     
2. Water Hemlock (Cicuta species):
   • Toxicity: Water hemlock is considered one of the most toxic plants to livestock and humans alike.
   • Appearance: It resembles edible plants like wild carrots( also known as Queen Anne’s lace) or parsnips, making it easy to ingest accidentally.
   • Symptoms: Ingesting even small amounts can cause violent seizures and death within hours.
   • Management: Identify and eradicate water hemlock from your pastures. Be cautious when removing as all parts of the plant are toxic.  Wear gloves, and remove all parts of the plant.  It is best to dispose of the plant in the trash or dumpster so the seeds end up in the landfill and not wherever you would normally compost vegetative waste. 
     
3. Wilted and Dead Vegetation:
   • General Risk: All plants, whether toxic or not, can become more dangerous when wilted or dead. After a storm, livestock may consume these plants out of curiosity or necessity, unaware of the heightened toxicity.
   • Preventative Measures: Remove any dead or wilted vegetation promptly from pastures to prevent accidental ingestion by livestock.

Thunderstorms and Their Risks

Thunderstorms bring much-needed rain but also pose risks to livestock, particularly when combined with certain plant toxins:

• Cyanide Release from Cherry Trees: During thunderstorms, trees or tree limbs can fall down, increasing the risk of cyanide poisoning if cherry tree branches and leaves fall into pastures. Livestock may consume these parts if they are wilted or damaged, leading to severe poisoning.
• Wilted and Dead Vegetation: Thunderstorms can cause plants to wilt or die, making them more palatable to livestock but also more toxic. Educate yourself on the potential risks of plants in your area and take proactive steps to manage them.

Preventative Measures and Management Strategies

To safeguard your livestock from these hazards, consider implementing the following measures:

• Regular Pasture Inspections: Conduct frequent inspections of your pastures, especially after storms, to identify and remove toxic plants such as cherry trees and water hemlock.
• Immediate Cleanup After Storms: After thunderstorms, promptly remove fallen branches and any wilted or dead vegetation from pastures to prevent accidental ingestion by livestock.
• Educational Outreach: Share information about toxic plants and storm hazards with others involved in livestock management, including family members, employees, and neighbors.
• Consultation with Experts: If you need clarification on identifying or managing toxic plants in your area, consult with local agricultural extension services or veterinarians for guidance.

By staying vigilant and proactive in pasture management, you can significantly reduce the risks posed by toxic plants and thunderstorm-related hazards to your valuable livestock.

At Martin's Feed Mill, we prioritize the health and safety of your animals. Contact us for more information on pasture management and livestock care tips.