NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — A massive winter storm system that brought historic snow, ice, and Arctic cold across much of the United States this week had widespread implications for producers, livestock, infrastructure, and transportation networks. Across dozens of states, freezing temperatures, hazardous travel conditions, and power outages disrupted operations from field work to feed deliveries.
Great Plains
- Kansas: Heavy snowfall and bitter cold lingered through the weekend, with storm systems dumping several inches and ice accumulation that slowed travel and field access. Livestock producers reported increased feed requirements as wind chills plunged well below zero, raising energy demands on cattle and reducing grazing time.
- Nebraska: Snow and freezing rain led to slick roads and intermittent power outages, delaying livestock care logistics. Wheat areas with deep snow cover saw some insulation benefits, while exposed fields faced a risk of cold stress.
- Oklahoma: Ice and light snow compounded existing dry conditions, raising concerns for winter wheat lacking protective snow cover. Transportation of inputs and feed was intermittently halted due to icy highways.
Midwest
- Iowa: Extremely cold air persisted, forcing producers to increase sheltering and feeding efforts for cattle amid drifting snow and slick roads. Winter wheat showed signs of stress where snow cover remained thin.
- Illinois: Ice and heavy snow disrupted grain shipments and slowed elevator operations. Trucking lanes were frequently restricted, delaying the movement of corn and soybeans.
- Missouri: Snow and freezing rain affected the northern and eastern parts of the state, prompting travel advisories and logistical slowdowns that affected farm supply movements.
Delta & South
- Arkansas: Several inches of snow and ice accumulation paralyzed rural roads, impacting poultry and rice operations by limiting access to feed and product transportation.
- Louisiana: Power outages caused by ice and snow disrupted agricultural operations, including cold-storage facilities, delaying shipments of perishable products.
- Mississippi: A deep freeze and ice-covered highways halted travel for workers and equipment, restricting access to farm services and supplies.
West & Southwest
- Texas: Snow, sleet, and extreme cold reached north and central regions, stressing cattle and hindering field operations. Producers focused on securing water access and maintaining feed delivery under frigid conditions.
- New Mexico: Significant snowfall created hazardous travel conditions, delaying deliveries of seed, feed, and inputs ahead of spring planning.
Northwest & Northern Rockies
- Montana: Bitter cold and persistent snow hampered livestock movement and restricted access to feedlots. Producers prioritized shelter, water systems, and equipment reliability.
- Idaho: Snow and subzero temperatures affected dairy operations, increasing reliance on backup power systems to maintain milking and herd health.
Northeast
- New York: Heavy snow accumulations led to widespread closures and slowed grain transport. Snow-covered fields delayed winter field assessments and cover crop evaluations.
- Pennsylvania: Snowfall exceeding a foot disrupted travel and utility access, complicating feed deliveries and increasing heating demands for livestock facilities.
Upper Midwest & Great Lakes
- Minnesota: Arctic air and snow created hazardous conditions, delaying livestock movement and feed deliveries while increasing the need for shelter and energy.
- Wisconsin: Ice accumulation and deep snow interrupted dairy logistics, delaying truck movement to processing plants and increasing reliance on backup power.
Far North & Territories
- Alaska: Extremely cold conditions persisted, with snowpack limiting forage access and keeping winter livestock management front and center.
- Hawaii & U.S. Territories: No significant winter weather impacts were reported, with agricultural operations continuing under normal seasonal conditions.
Related Stories
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute found human sewage, not fertilizer, is mainly responsible for dangerous nitrogen levels in Florida’s Indian River Lagoon.
Water system ideas for your farm or property... freeze-proof in winter! Come along with the Stoney Ridge Farmer as we work together to install frost-free water tanks and more!
In this AARP Live Minute: AARP’s Sarah Jennings has some tips for staying warm without wasting money during the winter.
Researchers now have new technology to help gauge what healthy cattle eat and how farmers can limit their feed costs, which can be expensive.
