What are the climatic factors that endanger the cattle industry in the State of Israel?

The cattle industry in Israel is exposed to a number of significant climate risks, some of which are already being felt today and are expected to worsen in the coming years:

1. Extreme heat loads

The greatest risk to cattle in Israel.

* Cows eat less.

* The growth rate of calves decreases.

* Milk production decreases.

* Fertility is impaired.

* The risk of disease and even death increases in extreme cases.

In Israel, there are sometimes dozens of days a year when the heat load is very high, especially in the Beit Shean Valley, the Jordan Valley and the Negev.

1. Water shortage

Israel is a relatively arid country, and in drought years:

* The price of water increases.

* There is less water for pasture and forage crops.

* Production costs increase.

1. Damage to forage crops

Crops such as:

* Corn for silage

* Alfalfa

* Wheat for forage

are susceptible to heat waves, water shortages, and extreme events. Declining crops cause cattle feed to become more expensive.

1. Spread of diseases and parasites

Climate change allows insects, ticks, and disease vectors to multiply more rapidly.

Examples:

* West Nile fever

* Tick-borne diseases

* Viral diseases spread by mosquitoes and flies

1. Extreme weather events

* Many of which are prolonged.

* Dust storms.

* Localized flooding.

* Strong winds.

Such events can cause damage to infrastructure, sheds, irrigation systems, and feed stocks.

6. Fires Rising temperatures and prolonged drought increase the risk of fires:

* Damage to pastures.

* Loss of feed.

* Evacuation of herds and emergency expenses.

7. Rising energy prices for cooling

Modern dairy farms in Israel depend on:

* Fans

* Sprinklers

* Cooling systems

As the summer heats up, electricity consumption increases significantly.

What is the most important threat?

The risk ranking for the cattle industry in Israel today:

1. Extreme heat loads

2. Water shortage

3. Rising feed prices

4. Diseases and parasites

5. Fires and extreme events

In fact, most dairy farmers in Israel are already investing large sums of money in cooling systems, because a decrease of even a few percent in milk yield can cause very significant losses

*It is always advisable to consult a qualified veterinarian.