Latest News From Paul Vining - OQBN Coordinator

Proper Vaccination Increases Calf Welfare and Value
Proper Vaccination Increases Calf Welfare and Value

In beef calf preconditioning programs, the importance of vaccinations to minimize respiratory illness, related to bovine respiratory disease (BRD), cannot be overstated.

Beef Production
Weaning From a Calf’s Point of View
Weaning From a Calf’s Point of View

Weaning stressors include removal from the dam, nutritional changes, a new environment, and altered social structure. Understanding this time allows a better understanding of the importance of a 45-day weaning period. 

Paul Vining - OQBN Coordinator
Beef Production
The Importance of Hay Moisture
The Importance of Hay Moisture

Hay should be baled when it has dried to the point of containing approximately 14-18% moisture. Bailing hay that contains elevated moisture may lead to an excessive amount of heat and possibly combustion then fire.

Paul Vining - OQBN Coordinator
Beef Production
Preconditioning Improves Calf Health, Performance and Carcass Quality
Preconditioning Improves Calf Health, Performance and Carcass Quality

Calves enrolled in the OQBN Vac-45 Program attained an average market premium of $18.67/cwt in 2022 and an average of $13.06/cwt over the past 12 years, compared to similar nonpreconditioned calves.

Paul Vining - OQBN Coordinator