VALENTINE, Neb. -- While moisture is definitely needed across Nebraska, spring storms are extra challenging for ranchers who are in the midst of calving season. In fact, USDA research reveals that weather exposure is one of the leading causes of calf deaths.

One-year-old Brazos Delaney already knows his way around a ranch. On Thursday, he was helping his dad and grandpa near Valentine prepare for a predicted storm.

“It's important to bring your cattle somewhere where they can get out of the wind and out of the weather,” Josh Delaney said.

In addition to moving cattle, Delaney, the owner of Delaney Cattle Services, also lays down fresh straw. He’s placed extra bedding in a hut, which allows little calves to enter, but not bigger animals that could make a cold, sloppy mess.

"The cows can all still stand here out of the wind, and they’ll still be right by the calves. The calves can come out and nurse,” Delaney said.

The Delaneys also strategically place hay bales for windbreaks, and of course, they tirelessly monitor their cattle around the clock during storms.

Josh’s dad, or should we say Brazos’ grandpa, John Delaney, isn’t excited about the potential for severe weather, but he knows the area needs moisture, and so far calving season has been mild compared to many years.

“It’ll probably be another 10 years before we get another winter like this,” John said.

“This year is incredibly different than last year,” Josh said. "Last year was the worst year in my 36 years that I’ve been around."

Still, ranching during calving season is non-stop, but it’s a labor of love that these men wouldn’t trade for anything.

“I love it,” Josh said. "I grew up doing this. I grew up Brazos' age loving it like he does. I can’t imagine life without having baby calves around for the kids to look at. That’s why we do what we do."