When we break sustainability down to the operational goal of optimizing resources, we realize increased productivity per cow and optimum stocking rate per acre are the actual problems we need to address.
Those seeking to take advantage of the emerging carbon market continue to evaluate a host of programs intended to document pasture management, crop rotations and feed additives all aimed at offsetting carbon emissions.
A recent bill passed the House Ag committee outlines the creation of a contract library to provide a public listing of terms and details in order to provide greater market transparency.
Weaning heavy, fast growing calves starts with conception. Cows conceiving every year and weaning even the most marginal calf can and still compete with a genetic giant with a zero in her average.
Most commercial bulls ultimately cull themselves due to injury or old age. The USDA Meat Animal Research Center evaluated the ability of genetic testing to inform management decisions around bull prolificacy.
Imagine if we could determine adaptive qualities of our cows before investing the development cost of replacement heifers, building an adaptive herd over time.
As I write this month’s article the range in future cattle and feed grain values has experienced historic swings in both directions. Regardless of the cause, this market offers several lessons worth considering.
BRD is the largest drain on all segments of the industry, but we are closer to technology that enhances animal well-being and improving operation efficiency.
Can we predict respiratory disease (BRD) onset using behavior monitoring technology? A research group at Texas A&M University looked to answer this very question.
