Irrigating pastures can provide livestock with nutrition long into summer. Learn to monitor soil moisture to determine when to irrigate and how much water to apply.
Excessive summer irrigation of oak and madrone trees may promote fungal diseases such as the oak root fungus (aka armillaria root disease) and crown rot.
Maintaining a healthy environment for raising livestock is essential. Keep pens and barns clean, provide fresh water and good food, and work with a veterinarian to provide preventative measures to keep animals healthy.