The recent storms that swept across the state caused significant damage to buildings, wind breaks, grain bins and other structures. The high winds carried debris onto cropland, hay fields and pastures and should be cleared away before grazing or harvesting of forages.

Building insulation can be carried long distances by wind, even after the initial damaging storms have passed. Cattle, especially calves, are curious by nature and investigate with their mouths.

“Consuming insulation can cause irritation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, obstruction and bloat,” says Dr. Jake Galbreath, North Dakota State University Extension veterinarian and livestock stewardship specialist. “Even small pieces can be irritating and accumulate in the GI tract.”

Treatment may include administering mineral oil and laxatives orally to aid in the passage of insulation material, as well as IV fluids for hydration. In some cases, surgery to remove material within the rumen may be necessary.

Building debris that has blown into pastures or hay fields may increase the risk of hardware disease, says Dr. Galbreath. Hardware disease occurs when metal, usually nails or pieces of wire, are swallowed and enter the reticulum (first stomach). These can poke through the wall of the reticulum, causing infection in the abdomen or chest, even potentially piercing the heart.

Metal debris can be picked up during baling, delaying ingestion and the resulting symptoms for weeks or months. Dr. Galbreath recommends that producers in affected areas consider administering rumen magnets to cows this fall, as these can bind to the pieces of metal and reduce the risk of internal injury.

In addition to ingestion risks, animals can suffer lacerations or penetrating injuries from pieces of wood, metal siding, and nails. Slicing injuries to the feet from metal siding can lead to deep tissue and possible joint infection. Lacerations may require repair and treatment by a veterinarian.

Sudden lameness that does not improve within 24 hours should be evaluated. Affected livestock need to be caught and restrained to allow picking up and examining all four feet for embedded nails or wire.

“Producers should thoroughly inspect their pastures and hay fields to remove storm debris,” says Dr. Galbreath. “This includes damaged cropland that may be salvaged for livestock feed as well as fields where crop residue may be grazed this fall.”

If there is suspicion that debris was ingested or an animal develops sudden lameness, producers should consult their local veterinarian for assistance.

For additional NDSU Extension information on livestock, visit ndsu.ag/livestock25.

For Extension information and resources regarding the June 2025 summer storm, visit ndsu.ag/summerstorms25.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – July 8, 2025

Source: Jake Galbreath, 701-710-1111, justin.galbreath@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu