Don't throw Japanese Yew trimmings over the fence!

Don't Let Spring Yard Cleanup Kill Your Cows
It's the time of year when lots of people perform yard and home cleanup. Most cattlemen are aware that various yard “trimmings” can be toxic to cattle, but in progressively urbanizing states, neighboring homeowners may not be aware that some yard vegetation can be deadly when consumed by livestock. Stan Smith, Ohio State University (OSU) Extension, says in the April 8 OSU Beef Cattle Letter that it behooves farm owners, and especially cattlemen, to establish acquaintance with neighbors, sharing with them seasonal concerns. “Perhaps during this time of year, the greatest risk may come from those who need a place to discard their yew bush trimmings. As little as ½lb. of yew trimmings, consumed by a 500-lb. calf can be fatal,” he says. The most common symptom of poisoning from this evergreen ornamental bush is sudden death within 24 hours, he adds, though occasionally death may be precluded by respiratory difficulty, shaking or muscle weakness. As there’s no known antidote for yew poisoning, prevention is critical. As spring progresses and new plants begin rapid spring growth, additional vegetation with the potential to harm livestock will emerge and leaf out, Smith says. For more info on plant toxicity, go to www.library.uiuc.edu/vex/toxic/comlist.htm.