A Silver Creek rancher who’s been tending a property near the Rail Trail for decades made an unexpected discovery about two weeks ago: 13 of his cattle that had been otherwise healthy were dead.
He immediately called the Utah Department of Agriculture, which has been investigating since. Bailee Woolstenhulme, a public information officer for the organization, said the cows were discovered on Nov. 16. The Utah Department of Agriculture took one of the animals for testing, and it’s been unable to determine the cause of death thus far.
“This rancher has grazed in that particular area for many, many years and without any issues. So, this is something that’s really rare and unexpected,” Woolstenhulme said.
The 13 dead cattle were pregnant and part of a herd of 69. The other cattle appear to be fine, and they’ve been moved to another pasture until the investigation is complete.
The Utah Department of Agriculture performed a necropsy, which is like an autopsy for animals, on the cow officials took. They determined there was no malicious or criminal activity meaning there were no gunshot wounds or evidence of mutilation.
Results determined the cattle did not ingest harmful vegetation. Additionally, a plant specialist examined the area and could not find any toxic species. Officials have also ruled out heavy metal poisoning from nearby mines.
Blood and water samples as well as a few other tests are still being analyzed to determine a cause of death. Woolstenhulme said those were supposed to come back last week. However, it may have been delayed because of the holiday. The results could come in sometime this week.
The Utah Department of Agriculture does not see any harm in keeping the Rail Trail open to the public near where the cows died. The rancher has made arrangements to move the cows, but the deceased cattle will remain in the pasture until the investigation is concluded. Woolstenhulme said there is no concern for people or pets besides a possible foul odor.
“Obviously when 13 cows that were otherwise healthy … pass away that suddenly, it’s very strange and very unusual,” she acknowledged.