Farm animals need winter refuge, too

Farmers generally aren't the sort of folks who seek out the limelight or invite media attention. But in the wake of the blizzard, I think it's important that people understand the great lengths to which farmers go to care for their animals during extreme weather events.

Farmers — especially livestock producers — don't get snow days. The animals, whether they're pigs, cows, horses or sheep, need to eat food and drink fresh water every day. They don't care that the wind chill is 20 below zero or that there are chest-high snow drifts and zero visibility. Food is part of how animals stay warm in cold weather, so not feeding them for a few days is not an option. Animals actually eat more in winter to keep their energy levels up.

On my farm, it is foremost in our minds to ensure that our animals were safe, well-fed and comfortable. There are some folks who wonder why livestock producers keep their animals inside. They feel being outdoors is more natural and better for them. But extreme weather can impact the health and safety of even the heartiest animal.

We house our families in a controlled, comfortable environment because we care about what's best for them. Farmers do the same for their animals all year long and with intensified effort during extreme weather conditions. This year's harsh winter has demanded those efforts all over the country, and I applaud my fellow farmers for meeting that challenge.

Philip Nelson

Seneca

President

Illinois Farm Bureau