Heat stroke reduces milk production: Farmers in Semberija invest in cooling systems to protect livestock

(Patria) - The scorching July days and heatwave that hit Bosnia and Herzegovina are hitting farmers hardest, especially those involved in livestock farming. On farms across Semberija, a decline in milk production is evident, and farmers are making additional efforts to protect livestock from heat stroke.

At the farm of the Agricultural Estate "Semberija", where around 360 cows with high milk potential are milked daily, modern cooling systems have been introduced. Chief technologist Radoslav Sekulić points out that no cases of heat stroke have been recorded so far, thanks to cooling fans and roof cooling systems.

– High temperatures and increased humidity negatively affect production results. Appetite decreases and the physiological functions of animals are compromised – Sekulić states for BHRT.

On the other hand, small producers face additional problems. Besides the drop in production, they also report a decrease in purchase prices.

– There are cows that have lost up to 30% of production, and they lowered the price by five pfennigs. Cattle tolerate minus 15 better than plus 40 – says milk producer Radenko Arsenović.

According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture of Republika Srpska, despite the challenges, milk production is expected to remain at last year's level.

– In 2023, 124 million liters of milk were purchased, and in the first half of 2024, we have already reached 130 million. However, summer is always a period when production declines, so we will continue to monitor the situation – said Saša Lalić, assistant minister for the veterinary sector.

Experts warn that high temperatures, in addition to reducing milk yield, can cause a number of other problems on farms, and urge farmers to ensure sufficient amounts of fresh water and shade for livestock to avoid serious consequences.