Livestock and Lightning

Unfortunately, a call has already come into the Extension office about livestock being killed by lightning this year.  With spring here and summer storms not far away, it may be a good time for a refresher on keeping animals safe.  Of course, different types of livestock typically warrant various kinds of care and shelter, a lot of which is dependent upon owner’s preference.  Here are some points to keep in mind:

-Be aware if storms are forecasted.  Knowing what's coming and having a plan to deal with it are the first steps in protecting livestock.

-Lightning’s main goal is to seek the easiest pathway to Earth; the most likely area for a strike is toward higher elevations

-Higher elevations can include hilltops and hillside pastures.  Other relatively tall objects are also attractive to lightning bolts – these can include single trees or even animals.  Power lines and wire/metal fences can also be seen as pathways to Earth.  Add moisture/rain and animals, and the pasture suddenly looks enticing to lightning. 

-Ungrounded barns can be a potential problem as well.  So a small, ungrounded barn may not be the best place for animals during a thunderstorm.  If you have your barn grounded, make sure it is done correctly. 

-If a grounded barn is not an option, safe havens can include a grounded, three-sided shed, lower elevations and a stand of trees.  Lightning prefers single trees over a group of trees.  However, a stand of trees does not guarantee lightning won’t strike there.  Fence out single trees so animals won’t congregate under them.

-Of course, all these suggestions sound good, but we all know that Mother Nature can be unpredictable.  Just because we do all these things to protect our animals does not guarantee their safety. 

-Another concern with storms can be wind.  Pick up debris or secure objects that may become airborne prior to a storm.  Flying objects can be potentially dangerous.

-Both flash flooding and prolonged flooding can be a problem.  Be aware of the flooding potential of your land and take appropriate actions. 

If you lose animals due to lightning, you may be eligible for compensation through the Livestock Indemnity Program.  Contact your local Farm Service Agency for details.