Land & wildlife

Know the pasture before you go.

A pasture is home for animals and a work area for people. Plan the route together.

Guide updated October 4, 2026 · About 2 minutes to read

Cattle grazing on open pasture at Birdwell Clark Ranch in Henrietta, Texas — USDA NRCS Texas · Photo source & credits

Make a small plan

With an adult, choose where to go and how to get help. Mark the route and safe storm shelter on a ranch map. Tell someone where you are going and when you will return.

Give animals their space

Do not cross a working pen or walk through cattle to save a few steps. Cows with calves may protect their young. Leave handling to trained adults.

Keep away from water hazards

Ponds, stock tanks, and pits can be deep or have slippery edges. Children need close supervision near water. Families should use barriers to keep children away from these areas.

Check the animal water

From a safe place with an adult, look for empty troughs or a broken supply. Tell the adult what you see. Do not enter a pen, pond, or tank to check it.

Change the plan when weather changes

Hear thunder? Go into a sturdy enclosed building with electricity or plumbing, or an enclosed metal-roof car or truck with windows closed. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before returning outside.

Try the lesson: what would you do?

Where this advice comes from

RanchWell explains published guidance in plain language. These organizations do not endorse this site. A guide does not replace job training, adult supervision, or a vet.

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