At Tom's Hay Farm, calving season is a time of new beginnings and careful tending, where the quiet of winter nights echoes with the first cries of life on the ranch. Our operations focus on ensuring healthy births for our cattle, from selecting strong breeds to monitoring every step of the process. With the Imperial Valley's unique climate, mild winters with days in the 60s and nights rarely below freezing, calving during this season makes perfect sense for us, allowing calves to thrive without the harsh cold that plagues other regions.
Unlike most areas in the U.S., where spring calving is common to avoid winter's freeze, our Valley's gentle winters let us time births for October through February. This schedule means calves arrive when the weather is cool but not brutal, giving them a head start on growth before summer's heat. We prepare by providing nutrient-rich Bermuda hay to build cow strength, keeping close watch for signs of labor, and having our team ready for any assists, all to minimize stress and maximize health for both mothers and newborns.
The process starts with irrigation to keep pastures lush, even in winter, supporting the cows' high-energy needs during pregnancy. Once calves drop, we check them daily for vitality, ensuring they nurse well and stay warm with sheltered pens. This Valley advantage—calving in winter—means our herd enters spring robust, ready for grazing, unlike northern ranches battling snow and mud.
In the end, our winter calving is a testament to the Valley's bounty. If you're in the area, stop by to see the newborns or grab some Bermuda hay for your own herd - we're grateful for a community that shares in these joys.
