As extreme summer heat settles across South Louisiana, cattle producers are doing more than making sure their herds have access to shade and fresh water. They are relying on months of preparation to help their animals withstand the hottest part of the year.
“It’s brutal. I mean it’s hard on people and it’s hard on cattle,” said Raymond Fontenot, owner and operator of Crescent Bar F., a grass-fed cattle operation in Meaux.
Fontenot said caring for cattle during the summer begins long before temperatures climb into the triple digits. Rather than reacting to each heat wave, he focuses on preparing his herd in advance…