Severe drought in the West is forcing many farmers and ranchers to make the toughest of choices – selling their livestock and destroying crops – according to a Farm Bureau survey of producers in 13 Western states.

For cattlemen who’ve always considered feeding their own cattle but have never taken the risk, the first step in picking a partner can be the hardest. Here’s a a 12-point checklist for selecting a feeding partner.

New additions to your herd create the potential for disease. Developing a plan for new herd additions with a veterinarian can reduce the risks and help guard your investments.

This week’s data show the highest percentage of the U.S. is in an extreme/exceptional drought since the data series began in 2000.

Cattle market analysts point to declining carcass weights and declines in the percentage of Prime and Choice grading carcasses in recent weeks as a clear signal the peak in fed cattle numbers has been established.

Machinery fires are no fun for farmers. Learn how to keep your machinery cool this summer.