Across many farming regions in Canada, flooding was an unwelcome arrival on the farm. In many of those regions, the flooding has now receded, leaving farmers with the significant task of assessing damage and planning recovery efforts for their lands and livestock.
This article provides essential guidelines to help farmers effectively manage the aftermath of floods.
Assessing Pasture Health
The first step is a thorough inspection of pastures. Farmers should remove any hazardous debris and check the integrity of fences and water systems to ensure they are safe for returning livestock. It's crucial to confirm the availability of clean water, as floodwaters often carry various contaminants which could pose health risks to animals.
Monitoring Animal Health
Animals should not return to pastures immediately post-flood due to potential microbial and chemical contaminants from nearby sources like sewage plants or manure piles. Waiting a couple of weeks allows harmful microbes to diminish and the pastures to dry, which helps prevent further soil damage.
Evaluating Plant and Forage Survival
The resilience of forage crops like alfalfa varies with the extent of flooding. Assessments should be made to check for root damage and potential recovery. Sediment deposits from flooding can smother plants if they exceed two inches, necessitating mechanical removal to save the stand.
Handling Stored Forage
Floodwater also impacts stored forages such as hay and silage. It's essential to dispose of any forage that has been submerged beyond salvageable conditions to prevent health risks to livestock. Always assess for contamination signs like odd smells or discoloration before deciding to use stored feeds.
Planning for Recovery and Replanting
For less damaged pastures, allowing a recovery period of one to two months is advisable before grazing can resume. More severely affected areas might need longer recovery times or even complete replanting. Consulting with agricultural specialists can provide tailored advice and support for specific situations.
Emergency Forage and Grazing Options
Farmers should also consider emergency forage options if standard pastures are not viable. Early planning and discussions with agricultural agents can facilitate the smooth implementation of these alternatives, ensuring that livestock continues to receive adequate nutrition.
This approach aids in quick flood recovery and strengthens farms against future challenges, highlighting the value of sustainable and proactive agricultural practices.