Cow-Calf News

One Size Does Not Fit All: Customizing Your Herd’s Vaccination Schedule

Fri, 22 May 2026 14:37:16 GMT

When it comes to herd health, many beef producers go to their veterinarian with a straightforward request: “Just tell me what shots to give.” Virginia Tech veterinarian John Currin understands the desire for a simple answer, but he says that mindset misses the real opportunity.

“Most of the time, people just want to know, ‘What shots do I give? Just tell me that,’” Currin says. “But if you want to get the most bang for your buck, it’s got to be tailored to your operation.”

Instead of chasing a national, one-size-fits-all vaccination calendar, Currin encourages producers to focus on the diseases that matter most in their cows and calves — and to build a written plan with their local veterinarian.

Why Do We Give Vaccines?

“The goal of any vaccination program is to increase resiliency and protection for the entire herd against certain diseases,” says A.J. Tarpoff, Kansas State University Extension veterinarian.

Vaccines are targeted challenges to the immune system to gain protection to the pathogens that cause the diseases of concern.

“Vaccines are tools producers use to reduce the risk and impact of certain infectious diseases in their cattle,” adds Russ Daly, South Dakota State University Extension veterinarian. “They work by stimulating the animal’s immune system before exposure to the disease-causing germs. As a result, when cattle are later exposed to those germs, the infection is less likely to become established or the severity and harmful effects of the disease are reduced.”

He stresses it’s important to remember vaccines only work to protect against the antigens they contain; in other words, there’s very little cross-protection with most cattle vaccines.

“Excessive germ exposures can overwhelm the action of vaccines,” he adds. “There aren’t vaccines against every important cattle health problem — so vaccines should be considered just one of several tools cattle producers should use to reduce disease risk.”

Start With Clear Goals: What Are You Trying to Prevent?

For Currin, a good vaccination program begins by identifying the most important disease risks to a herd.

“On the cow side, the overall goal is to prevent the frequent diseases — those that cause infertility and abortion,” he explains. “On the calf side, the fatal is clostridial disease, and the frequent is respiratory disease.”

That simple framework guides how he talks about herd health with producers. Cows need strong protection against reproductive losses. Calves need protection against deadly clostridial diseases and the common respiratory problems that can rob performance and survivability.

Tarpoff agrees that the goal is to protect threats against pregnancy for cows and then begin enhancing the immune system of young calves for protection against bovine respiratory disease (BRD).

“It is always important to remember that vaccines enhance protection for the herd, but an increased threat or poor management can always overcome a well-vaccinated animal’s immune system,” he stresses.

Currin encourages producers to build timing and product choices around their priorities, rather than starting with a generic list of vaccines and trying to make them fit every herd.

Same Science, Different Herds

Producers often ask for a universal vaccination schedule they can apply to any cow-calf operation. Currin says that’s not realistic — or very helpful.

“There is no one-size-fits-all vaccination program,” he says. “They’re all underpinned by the same science, but they vary for each operation based on operational goals, their past problems and the labor and facilities they have. Everyone needs a program that’s uniquely tailored to their operation.”

Regional disease pressure is a big part of that tailoring. For example, Clostridium haemolyticum (redwater) may be a serious concern in parts of the West but is not a routine threat in the East.

“There are differences across different parts of the country within diseases you’re going to be more concerned with that don’t exist in other areas,” he says. “I definitely recommend producers work closely with their veterinarian to come up with a good herd health protocol.”

Work With Your Veterinarian — and Put It in Writing

Tarpoff stresses, because of the unique management aspects of every operation, cookie-cutter recommendations that fit everyone simply don’t exist.

Currin is adamant that vaccination planning shouldn’t happen in isolation or at the farm store counter.

“I always suggest producers work with their veterinarian and/or local Extension people to come up with a good herd health protocol,” he says. “Have a written plan and periodically review that plan, because things change.”

Currin suggests the written plan should reflect:

Region-specific disease risks.
The operation’s calving season and breeding schedule.
Labor and handling opportunities.
Past herd health problems and long-term goals.

Building a Practical Schedule: Cows and Calves

While every program looks a little different, Currin uses a basic structure that can be adapted to both spring- and fall-calving herds.

On the cow side, he is a strong believer in modified-live vaccination programs, provided the herd is managed to allow safe use.

“You’ve got to have a defined calving season so that you have a time period where all the cows are open and you can vaccinate those cows with a modified-live vaccine,” Currin says.

He stresses sticking to label directions for timing. For calves, Currin targets both clostridial and respiratory disease.

“When the calves are 1 to 3 months of age, give them a separate clostridial vaccine. That’s kind of my basic youth vaccine program,” he says.

Later, he builds in a preweaning round of respiratory and clostridial protection.

According to Currin, spring- and fall-calving herds can follow the same framework; only the calendar dates change.

“While cookie-cutter recommendations don’t work, there are some common pathogen threats,” Tarpoff adds. “A 2017 survey of cow-calf veterinarians identified the most common pathogen recommendations.”

He says these recommendations include:

For the cow herd, ideally prebreeding to boost protection prior to breeding season — IBR, BVD (Types 1 and 2), lepto, PI3, BRSV and Vibrio (Campylobacter).
For calves — IBR, BVD (Types 1 and 2), BRSV, PI3 as well as a multivalent clostridial are the most common recommendations. Once closer to weaning, more veterinarians recommend including respiratory bacterins such as Mannheimia, followed by Histophilus and Pasteurella.

Don’t Forget Bulls and Replacement Heifers

Producers sometimes overcomplicate bull protocols. Currin applies what he calls the KISS [keep it short and simple] principle.

“I treat them like they’re cows. They get the same vaccination program as the cows do,” he says.

That keeps the program simple and helps ensure bulls aren’t overlooked.

Replacement heifers, on the other hand, are a special opportunity.

“The key difference is it’s a wonderful time to set them up for their lifelong herd health program,” Currin says.

Modified-Live vs. Killed Vaccines: Which is Right for You?

Daly says both killed and modified-live versions of vaccines are available for some reproductive and respiratory agents, which further factors into the decision.

“Safety, handling and timing conditions are different between both types,” he explains. “Vaccines of the same type containing the same antigens are usually offered for sale by several different animal health companies, creating another decision point.”

Daly adds the herd veterinarian can offer guidance on all those decision points.

“Their familiarity with the herd’s specific needs and with the various vaccines offered for sale make them the best source of information on which to base vaccine choices,” he summarizes.

In herds that don’t routinely use modified-live vaccines in mature cows, Currin likes to see heifers primed with modified-live products after weaning.

“If we’re not using modified-live vaccines in the cows, we can at least get a couple doses postweaning in those heifers,” he explains. “There’s really good evidence that priming those calves with modified-live vaccines has positive impacts as we booster them with killed products later on in life.”

He stresses it is important to not use modified-live vaccines in naïve cattle less than 30 days prior to breeding time.

Beyond Vaccines: Parasites and Flies Still Matter

Vaccines are only one part of a complete herd health program. Parasite and fly control still need to be addressed and should be built into the same veterinarian-guided plan.

“On the cow side, it’s predominantly lice and flies we’re talking about trying to control,” Currin notes. “On the calf side, it’s predominantly internal parasites — worms — and then, to some extent, flies.”

Fly control can be an ongoing challenge for beef producers.

“I’ve decided that flies are smarter than me,” Currin says jokingly. “Fly control is difficult because of animal-handling times and resistance of flies to many of our commonly available products. Producers should plan on a multifaceted approach involving at least two things to try to control flies.”

He points to four broad tool categories: fly tags, pour-ons, backpack sprayers, and insect growth regulators in the mineral. But he cautions that no program will work forever.

“They have to be prepared to adjust their program every couple of years, because what worked last year will not necessarily work this year,” he adds.

The Bottom Line: Use the Science, But Customize the Plan

For Currin, the message to producers is straightforward: The vaccines and the science are widely available, but the real value comes from how they’re applied on your specific operation.

“Every herd has different needs regarding disease risks and labor availability throughout the year,” Daly summarizes. “While there are some basics that should be followed for all herds, the choice of vaccines and their timing can vary widely between herds — even those across the fence from each other. This makes timely consultation with the herd veterinarian even more important.”

No matter herd size or location, a good vaccination program starts with understanding your herd’s biggest disease risks, then working with your veterinarian to develop — and regularly review — a written herd health plan that truly fits your cows, your calves and your management.

What Products are Available to Prevent and Treat New World Screwworm?

Thu, 21 May 2026 19:22:05 GMT

New World Screwworm or Cochliomyia hominivorax is still south of the U.S. border, but the prevention and treatment playbook is already taking shape. Veterinarians, regulators and ranchers who’ve seen this pest up close keep coming back to the same point: you can’t treat your way out of screwworm.

Prevention means fewer wounds, tighter calving windows, stronger parasite programs and more “eyeballs” on cattle, backed up by early reporting and a vet‑guided treatment plan.

When cases do occur, today’s toolbox — from prescription pour‑ons and emergency‑use injectables — can limit the damage, as long as producers know how and when to use each tool.

The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is working with animal drug sponsors to identify potential products and seeks to have them approved or otherwise authorized for the prevention or treatment of NWS myiasis. The agency has multiple regulatory pathways and access mechanisms to facilitate the availability of animal drugs for NWS.

Currently, FDA has conditionally approved two products for use with beef cattle. This list continues to grow as FDA approves products. For an up-to-date list you can visit the FDA website .

Animal Drugs Conditionally Approved by FDA for NWS

Dectomax-CA1 (doramectin injection) injectable solution: Prevention and treatment of infestations caused by NWS larvae (myiasis), and prevention of reinfestation for 21 days in cattle.
Exzolt Cattle-CA1 (fluralaner) topical solution: Prevention and treatment of infestations caused by NWS larvae (myiasis) and treatment and control of cattle fever tick (Rhipicephalus microplus) in beef cattle 2 months of age and older and replacement dairy heifers less than 20 months of age.

Emergency Use Authorization of Animal Drugs for NWS

On Aug. 18, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued a declaration enabling FDA to issue Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for animal drugs to treat or prevent infestations caused by NWS. This list continues to grow as FDA approves products and for an up-to-date list, you can visit the FDA website .

Here is the current list of products FDA has approved for emergency use:

Ivomec (ivermectin) injectable solution: Prevention of infestations caused by NWS larvae (myiasis) when administered within 24 hours of birth, at the time of castration, or at the appearance of a wound in cattle, except for female dairy cattle producing milk for human consumption and calves that will be processed for veal.
F10 Antiseptic Wound Spray with Insecticide (benzalkonium chloride, polyhexanide and cypermethrin topical solution): Prevention and treatment of infestations caused by NWS larvae (myiasis) in cattle, horses, minor species of hoof stock, raptors and other wild birds, pet birds, and captive wild, exotic and zoo mammals.
F10 Antiseptic Barrier Ointment with Insecticide (benzalkonium chloride, polyhexanide and cypermethrin topical ointment): Prevention and treatment of infestations caused by NWS larvae (myiasis) in cattle, horses, minor species of hoof stock, raptors and other wild birds, pet birds, and captive wild, exotic, and zoo mammals.
Negasunt Powder (coumaphos, propoxur, and sulfanilamide topical powder): Prevention and treatment of infestations caused by NWS larvae (myiasis) in cattle, swine, goats, sheep, horses, donkeys, domestic hybrid equids, and captive wild, exotic, and zoo mammals. Negasunt is currently limited to USDA-authorized users and government agencies to prevent misuse.
Dectomax/Dectomax-CA1 (doramectin injection): Prevention and treatment of infestations caused by NWS larvae (myiasis) in dairy cattle (lactating dairy cows, dry dairy cows, replacement dairy heifers, 20 months of age and older) except for calves that will be processed for veal; and prevention of infestations caused by NWS larvae (myiasis) in horses 1 year and older, swine, sheep except lactating sheep and deer.

Prevention Options: Don’t Blanket Treat

When considering prevention, experts suggest the best option is to evaluate and adjust management practices compared to mass treating. They also encourage working with your veterinarian to make a plan.

“You may want to reevaluate with your veterinarian your integrated pest management as far as what you’re doing for ticks, and what you’re doing for the fly control and things where you might have more wounds, and that’s what you want to minimize if it does indeed get here,” suggests Dr. Diane Kitchen, a cattle rancher and Florida Department of Agriculture veterinarian manager, bovine and cervidae programs.

A veterinarian is central to the preparation and treatment plan. Part of being prepared is sitting down now with your veterinarian and discussing: “If we get screwworm, what’s our plan? How often are we looking at cattle, what products are we going to use, and what do we do about movements?”

For wound care, antibiotics, pain management and access to tools, a veterinary client–patient relationship is vital. Treatment is about parasite removal and wound management, guided by vets.

South Texas beef producer Jason Sawyer says, “We’ve also re‑evaluated our parasite control programs in the context of our beef quality assurance program and really tried to set for ourselves a comprehensive plan for how we can better monitor cattle, better treat and better prevent their exposure to screwworms, should the pest re‑emerge in Texas.”

Sawyer, who manages ranches near the U.S.-Mexico border, explains, “We’re trying to work with the weather instead of against it and think about comprehensive parasite control strategies that can minimize that risk for newborn calves, knowing that we’re unlikely to be able to put our hands on every one of them as they hit the ground.”

Health officials say mass or blanket treating the whole herd in an attempt to “prevent” NWS is not the answer. The goal should not be to habitually treat animals ‘just in case.’

“Blanket treatment of animals is not recommended,” stresses Dr. Julia Herman, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) beef cattle specialist veterinarian. “We need to be really responsible in how we use these products. Any unnecessary or inappropriate use should be avoided — this reduces the risk of developing antimicrobial resistance. Only use products for the parasites that are listed on the label.”

Sawyer agrees with the importance of resistance management, adding, “We don’t want to react to an emergent threat in a way that then creates problems with a persistent pest that’s already present.”

Kitchen summarizes that producers and veterinarians have many more tools than they did back in the ’60s and ’70s when NWS was last endemic in the U.S., but producers and veterinarians should strive to avoid “unnecessary or inappropriate use” to preserve effectiveness.

For NWS, the plan is not to line up every animal on the ranch and treat them all ‘just in case.’ Regulators and veterinarians aim to inspect, treat infested or high‑risk animals, and use systemic products where they make sense, always watching resistance, withdrawal times and product supplies.

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Prep Now for a Productive Hay Season

Thu, 21 May 2026 19:23:30 GMT

Productive hay seasons aren’t born in the field; they are built through early-season preparation and the adoption of precision technology. As temperatures rise, experts from John Deere and Corteva Agriscience are urging producers to evaluate their forage goals now — whether for the cow-calf herd or the commercial market.

Preparation can be the difference between a productive hay season and a stressful one. That’s why it’s important to start prepping now, to maximize both the yield and the quality of forage production, says Kaylene Ballesteros, John Deere marketing manager of hay and forage equipment.

To get the most from your equipment, she says, first and foremost, it’s helpful to establish your goals for the season. Ask yourself: Are you planning to feed hay to your own herd? Are you selling it? Is it going into a silage program?

“At John Deere, we have a diverse portfolio of technology and offer several crop-processing features that can help you meet your goals, no matter your operation size or type,” Ballesteros says.

For Iowa producer Scott Birker, making high-quality hay to feed his cow-calf herd is his main goal for this season. He shares that good forage management pays off when it comes to cattle health and productivity.

“It makes calving and weaning easier. It really makes everything easier when you start with high-quality forages,” he says.

Birker uses a John Deere 1 Series Round Baler, with gate speed and weave automation. Weave automation is a recently launched baler feature, designed to help streamline the baling process by automatically weaving the baler over the windrow to consistently create square-shouldered bales. It also enhances feed quality by minimizing potential contamination of debris that can be introduced by driving over windrows.

“Our goal is to make sure producers have confidence in their haying equipment, so no matter the time frame, circumstances or who’s in the seat, they can expect a consistent, quality-made round bale every time, with less operation input,” Ballesteros says.

Birker works closely with his local John Deere dealer to ensure equipment is ready for the season and to identify opportunities for improvement. He plans to pinpoint the highest-yielding areas within the hayfields to further maximize production this year.

“If you’re interested in deeper yield data to know if your investments on inputs are paying off, or you are simply looking to track your bale count and moisture, setting up your equipment ahead of time is the best way to ensure you meet your goals,” Ballesteros says. “Whether that’s adding a precision technology kit to your existing equipment or it’s with new equipment that you just purchased, your John Deere dealer can help ensure you’re set up for success.”

Limiting weeds also improves the quality of harvested forage.

“Everyone’s situation is worthy of being discussed, because every producer has unique needs that are far more than just ‘I want to kill weeds dead,’” says Abe Smith, Corteva Agriscience range and pasture specialist. “It’s about trying to meet the long-term goals for that operation.”

Noxious weeds like thistle, ragweed and horsenettle can quickly reduce the productivity of pastures and hayfields, making early control key to limit lasting impacts.

“The only way you put pounds of beef across the scale is by putting pounds of forage on that pasture,” Smith says.

Low-Stress Lessons: A Rancher’s Artistic Approach to Animal Behavior

Wed, 20 May 2026 18:10:53 GMT

A first-generation Texas rancher has uncovered different tactics to improve low-stress cattle-handling techniques for ranches of all sizes.

Kim Jungkind was living the life of a trauma nurse in Philadelphia when her father-in-law passed away, leaving her and her husband the family ranch in Texas. The Jungkinds didn’t have any knowledge of ranching but took on the challenge and quickly learned.

Previous arrangements were made that the other side of the family, who were ranchers, would take over the ranch.

“It seemed to be a good plan,” Jungkind says. “But at the funeral, the experienced ranchers decided to give the responsibility to us.”

She approached ranching and animal behavior with curiosity. After all, her mind was a clean slate, never having heard, “This is how we’ve always done it.”

Jungkind says, “I think being curious is important to gain a really different perspective. There are always insights and new information available, and tapping into those insights can really help your cattle business.”

Her background as an emergency/trauma/heart transplant nurse and artist brought a special skill set to ranching as well.

“Nurses are very good observers,” Jungkind explains. “I just transferred those abilities and started really focusing on the cows — they seemed emotional and curious.”

However, her first experiences with cows weren’t ones that led her to believe cows were either of these things.

“The few times we had been to the ranch, my father-in-law told us to stay away from the cows because they could hurt us.”

Her curiosity led her to try playing music for their cattle, and the results were interesting.

She says, “I tried different kinds of music and watched how they reacted. When I played rock or jazz, they moved away or even ran. When I played Bach, they came closer and closer. They actually wanted to lick the boombox.”

It was the low, soft tones that the cows preferred.

Being an artist, she also hung a variety of quality artwork in the corral. The cows quickly let her know which ones they preferred, which led her to discovering and researching their preference for the color yellow.

“They went straight for one painting of yellow daffodils,” Jungkind shares. “That’s when I started asking why. After some research, I found they can see yellow very well — and they’re naturally drawn to it.”

Jungkind applies these discoveries on her ranch by playing music for cattle during stressful events. An area rancher took her findings with the color yellow and switched to only using yellow sorting flags.

She says, “A yellow flag on the end of a sorting stick catches their attention and creates a less stressful experience. It’s a simple change, but it makes handling easier on both the cattle and the producer.”

Next time you evaluate your cattle-handling scenarios to reduce stress, stay curious and observant of how they respond to colors, noises and human energy.

Listen to the full conversation on the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast.

CattleFax 2025 Survey: Record $2,246 Calf Revenue Drives Historic Cow-Calf Profits

Tue, 19 May 2026 19:42:56 GMT

Cow-calf producers navigated a high-stakes market in 2025, according to the latest CattleFax survey. The latest survey reveals a paradox in the 2025 cattle market: while it has never been more expensive to keep a cow, it has also rarely been more profitable to sell a calf. With data representing 300,000 cows across 40 states, the report provides a definitive benchmark for producers navigating today’s volatile environment.

“Surging calf prices in 2025 far outpaced the increase in cow costs leading to the strongest cow-calf profits recorded since CattleFax has been conducting this survey,” says CattleFax Analyst Matthew McQuagge.

The average herd size within this sample increased to 391 cows, which McQuagge explains is primarily due to a decrease in participants with 100 or fewer head.

Record Cash Cow Costs vs. Surging Calf Revenue

Cash cow costs increased $27 per head to $780 for a new record in the CattleFax database. However, higher calf prices have continued to offset the elevated costs. Participants reported an average revenue of $2,246 per calf in 2025, up $631 from 2024. Adjusting for weaning percentages, average cow-calf profit margins increased by $614 per head compared to 2024. Steer weaning weights were 7 lb. higher at 563 lb. and heifers were also up 7 lb. to 528 lb. The weaned calf crop percentage saw a small improvement in 2025 with an average of 87.9%.

	U.S. Average
2025 Cow Costs vs. Calf Revenue
Calf Value	$2,246
Cow Cost (as reported)	$780
Weaned Calf Crop %	87.9%
Cow Cost (% calf crop adjusted)	$897
Profit (% calf crop adjusted)	$1,361
Estimated Cost for Unpaid Labor & Depreciation	$288
Estimated Net Margin	$1,073
Weaning Weights
Steers	563
Heifers	528
Pounds Weaned per Exposed Female	478
Other Factors
Cow Herd Size	391
Bull Purchase Price	$7,542
Planned expansion from 2025 to 2026
Increase herd by 10% or more	33%
Increase herd by less than 10%	18%
No change or minimal change in herd size	38%
Reduce herd by less than 10%	6%
Reduce herd by 10% or more	5%

(CattleFax)

Benchmarking High-Return vs. Low-Return Operations

“Producer profitability continued to show wide ranges, driven by differences in costs, revenues, weaning rates and calf weights,” McQuagge says. “High-return producers consistently generate 10% more pounds weaned per exposed female than average and low-return operations. This is driven in large part by a tighter calving season length which, in turn, supports both heavier calf weights at weaning as well as a larger overall weaning percentage.”

Every year, CattleFax sorts survey responses into three equal-sized categories based on weaning-adjusted profit status to further evaluate what sets “high-return” producers apart from “average” or “low-return” operators. High-return operations recorded an average net return of $1,726 per head while low-return ones received an average of $1,001 per head, which McQuagge says is still a historically strong margin.

While the entire sector saw historically strong margins, “high-return” operations separated themselves through vaccination, weaning programs and superior calf crop percentages.

“The last two years have noted a more uniform spread of both cow costs and calf values between return groups, likely attributed to higher calf prices creating a greater, more even distribution in profits among operations,” he says. “High-return operations were characterized as placing greater emphasis on managerial practices that result in a larger weaned calf crop percentage of 90% compared to low- and average-return producers with 85% and 88% calf crops respectively.”

High-return producers were also more likely to implement value-added production practices such as vaccination and weaning programs.

High-return producers were also more likely to implement value-added production practices such as vaccination and weaning programs.

(CattleFax)

Key Management Correlations for High Returns

McQuagge says other management practices that stand out across time for increasing an operations’ net margin is having two-plus rounds of vaccinations and weaning for over 45 days. The 2025 data identifies three critical areas where management directly impacts the bottom line:

Calving Season Length: Shorter calving intervals (0 to 45 days) resulted in the highest weaning weights (averaging 555 lb.) compared to 90-plus day intervals (484 lb.).
Vaccination Protocols: Calf value peaked for producers who vaccinated three to four times, adding hundreds of dollars in value compared to zero-vaccination programs.
Bull Investment: There is a direct correlation between bull purchase price and calf revenue. Bulls purchased for more than $9,500 consistently produced the highest-value calves.

(CattleFax)

How Much Does it Cost to Keep a Cow?

Cash cow costs reached a new record in the CattleFax database.

Average Cash Cow Cost: $780 per head (up $27 from the previous year).
Cost Breakdown: Feed and hay remain the largest expenses (34%), followed by pasture (32%) and hired labor (14%).
Regional Highs: The Northern Plains reported the highest cash costs at $861 per head, while the Southeast remained the lowest at $703.

Is the U.S. Cattle Herd Expanding?

The survey suggests a strong intent to grow the national herd through 2027:

2026 Expansion: 33% of U.S. producers plan to increase their herd by 10% or more.
2027 Outlook: 29% of producers expect to continue expanding by 10% or more, indicating long-term confidence in the market.

Regional Performance Benchmarks

The survey highlights significant differences in production across the U.S. regions:

Northern Plains: Led the nation in steer weaning weights (576 lb.) and pregnancy percentage (93%).
Southern Plains: Reported a 571-lb. steer weaning weight and a 55-day average calving interval.
Southeast: While weaning weights were lower (536 lb. for steers), the region benefited from the lowest cash costs in the country.
Corn Belt: Reported the smallest average herd size at 143 head, compared to the West’s 669 head.

Market Outlook: Will Tight Calf Supplies Maintain Producer Leverage?

Patrick Linnell, CattleFax director of market research, summarizes, “Ultimately, the current market environment has supported the average cow-calf producer in making record profits over the past few years with strong likelihood that this sector will continue to maintain favorable leverage over the next couple of years as domestic calf supplies remain tight.”

He adds, while every operation’s situation is unique, opportunities exist through increasing efficiencies or managing cost to improve profitability, regardless of the current market environment.

The CattleFax 2025 Cow-Calf Survey was sponsored by Crystalyx and Sweetlix. CattleFax will host a free webinar reviewing the survey as well as a market outlook on May 20 at 5:30 p.m. MT.

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Nalivka: Beef Markets and Record-High Prices Going Forward

Fri, 15 May 2026 13:06:37 GMT

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, there is the question of market highs as we head toward the grilling season. I think it is worthwhile to look back at a year ago this time.

During the first week of May 2025, the Choice Cutout averaged $345/cwt., the Select Cutout $332/cwt. and the Comprehensive Cutout $342/cwt. Those prices peaked at $414/cwt. (+20%), $387/cwt. (+17%) and $409/cwt. (+20%), respectively.

This year during the week of May 9, the Choice Cutout averaged $390/cwt., the Select Cutout $388/cwt. and the Comprehensive Cutout $391/cwt. This year’s prices are 13%, 17% and 14% higher for each of the respective cutout values than a year ago.

Cutout Category	May 2025 Avg	May 2026 Avg	% Change
Choice	$345	$390	+13%
Select	$332	$388	+17%
Comprehensive	$342	$391	+14%

Is there a limit to how much current beef demand can drive those prices? My response is, “yes” and we are not too far from that limit.

The Government Question: Let Markets Be Markets

Record-high beef prices are the topic of discussion in cattlemen’s meetings, among market analysts, restaurant procurement, government, and state and federal legislatures with the discussion ranging from “Can prices go much higher” to the government assessing how to “Reduce prices for the consumer.”

My reaction when the government enters the discussion is that we do not need any government entity whether the administration, USDA or Congress to get involved. Markets operate best according to nonmanipulated supply-demand fundamentals, those very drivers that got us to the point of record prices in the first place. Manipulating the market toward the goal of lowering prices for the consumer is not an option, whether it be trade-related or any other manipulation.

(Sterling Marketing Inc.)

For the last 12 months, we have discussed and discussed when rebuilding of the cattle herd will begin. The consensus from all this expert analysis and discussion is that rebuilding will be slow. Why? My response is that the industry and the people involved have changed from those of past cattle cycles.

Farmers and ranchers are older and many no longer have family members who have come back to the ranch after graduating from high school or college. This is a critical factor for those existing full-time cattle ranching operations. These full-time cattlemen whose family members did not come back to the ranch are growing older and slowing down.

But the real driver to cattle numbers is the part-time cattleman — those who also have a cropping operation with pasture to raise a few cattle or people who don’t farm or ranch full time but have pasture, work at another job and want a few (25 to 50 head) cattle.

I believe these part-time cattlemen have declined significantly.

(Sterling Marketing Inc.)

Opportunity Cost: The Barrier to Heifer Retention

Aside from changing demographics of cattlemen, there is another critical issue to herd building and one which has been a driver in previous cattle cycles — record-high prices. While today’s prices are certainly a godsend to full-time cattlemen already in the business, those same record-high prices make the proposition of buying cows to get into the business a challenge, to say the least. And, for that matter, record-high prices can also be viewed as a record-high opportunity cost when a heifer is retained.

(Sterling Marketing Inc.)

The Forage Insurance Policy: Why Diversity is Your Best Defense Against Drought

Thu, 14 May 2026 16:14:26 GMT

Periods of dry conditions often bring renewed interest in alternative forages, annual crops and cover crop mixes to maintain feed supplies and reduce reliance on perennial pasture alone. While no single strategy eliminates drought risk, diversifying the forage base can function as a practical “insurance policy” by spreading risk across species, planting windows and rooting depths.

Rather than relying on a single forage system, producers can improve resilience by incorporating a combination of perennial forages, annual crops and strategically selected cover crops that respond differently to moisture stress and temperature variability.

Thinking in Systems, Not Seasons

A diversified forage program works best when it is planned as a system rather than implemented in reaction to current conditions.

Perennial pastures provide a base level of production in most years, while annual forages can be used to bridge forage gaps during drought, after failed crops or when seasonal pasture growth slows.

Integrating these components allows producers to:

Extend the grazing season in the spring and fall.
Distribute your operation’s forage production across multiple planting dates.
Capture moisture and nutrients when perennial growth is limited.
Maintain flexibility in stocking rate adjustments during dry years.

Herbicide Carryover and Field History

Before establishing any annual forages or cover crops, herbicide application history must be reviewed carefully. Residual herbicides from previous cash crops may limit establishment or create grazing and harvest restrictions for forage use. This includes products applied during the previous growing season and, in some cases, earlier applications depending on the chemical and soil conditions.

Always consult current herbicide labels for rotational, grazing and harvest restrictions prior to planting alternative forages or cover crop mixes. If crops are not listed, it may be appropriate to perform a bioassay prior to planting to ensure the safety of your crop.

Matching Forages to Risk and Moisture Conditions

One of the most effective ways to manage drought risk is to match forage species to expected moisture availability and planting timing.

Using both cool- and warm-season annuals across an operation can reduce the likelihood of complete forage failure during a single dry period.

Cool-Season Annuals
Cool-season annuals typically provide early or late-season forage and may include species such as:
1. Oats, barley, triticale, cereal rye and winter wheat.
2. Peas, forage radishes, turnips and hairy vetch.
These species often perform best when planted early or late in the growing season, allowing them to take advantage of cooler temperatures and available soil moisture.
Warm-Season Annuals
Warm-season annuals generally provide mid-summer forage when cool-season pasture growth slows. Examples include:
1. Sorghum-sudangrass and forage sorghum.
2. Pearl millet, foxtail (including German and Japanese types) and proso millet.
3. Teff.
Once established, warm-season species are typically more water-use efficient and better adapted to hot conditions.

Strategic Use of Perennials

Perennial forages remain the foundation of most grazing systems. Although their productivity can decline substantially during drought, management strategies such as rotational grazing, deferred grazing and stockpiling can help extend pasture use during dry conditions.

Including deep-rooted perennial species, such as alfalfa on suitable sites, alongside grass-dominant pastures can also improve drought resilience. Differences in rooting depth and growth patterns allow these species to access moisture from different soil layers and respond differently to stress.

Soil Water Use and Recovery Periods

Diversified forage systems should account for how different forage species use soil moisture and how quickly they recover following grazing or drought stress. Rapid-growing annual forages can provide timely feed but may draw down surface soil moisture quickly. Perennials typically use water more gradually but often recover more slowly once moisture becomes limiting.

Combining annuals and perennials can help balance these effects by distributing water use across species with varying root systems and growth habits. Incorporating adequate recovery periods into grazing plans is especially critical during dry years to maintain stand persistence.

Establishment Timing and Flexibility

Planting flexibility is a key advantage of annual forages. Warm-season species can be planted after frost risk has passed, while cool-season species fit well into early-spring or late-summer planting windows.

In drought-prone conditions, delaying planting until a meaningful rainfall event may improve establishment success compared to planting in dry soils. Although this approach can reduce early-season forage availability, it often results in more uniform emergence and improved stand longevity.

Nutrient Management Considerations

Nitrogen management should be adjusted according to forage species, yield potential and available moisture. Under drought conditions, excessive nitrogen application can increase the risk of nitrate accumulation in certain forage crops, particularly grass species such as oats, sorghum and sorghum-sudangrass hybrids.

Soil testing, previous crop nitrogen credits and realistic yield expectations should guide fertilization decisions. In some situations, reduced nitrogen rates or no additional nitrogen may be appropriate when moisture is expected to limit growth potential.

Grazing Management and Risk Distribution

Diversification involves not only what is planted, but how forages are managed and utilized. Practices such as rotational grazing, stockpiling and flexible stocking rates allow producers to shift grazing pressure among forage resources as conditions change. Having multiple forage options available reduces dependence on any single pasture or crop and allows for more measured forage use during dry periods of environmental stress.

Drought is an inevitable part of forage production systems, but total reliance on any single forage type increases vulnerability to weather extremes. A diversified forage base — built from a combination of perennial pastures, annual forages and strategically selected cover crops — can improve flexibility, extend grazing opportunities and reduce production risk across variable growing seasons.

— Kim Ricardo, SDSU Extension forage specialist

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High Bull Prices? Why AI is the Cost-Effective Genetic Alternative

Thu, 14 May 2026 14:01:35 GMT

Short on bull power? Artificial insemination (AI) might be the better option for a variety of reasons.

“Bull prices are pretty high, especially high-quality bulls, versus semen prices have remained pretty steady,” explains Jaclyn Ketchum. “So you have access to genetics that you maybe wouldn’t have had access to if you don’t use AI, but then also at a more reasonable price.”

Ketchum ranches with her family in southeast Montana and has taken over the family’s custom AI business. However, prior to this endeavor, she studied reproductive physiology, obtaining a master’s degree at the University of Missouri and her doctorate at Texas A&M.

She reminds producers that the list of benefits from AI differs depending on the type of AI protocol used.

“There’s a list of benefits for AI in general and then there’s a whole list of other benefits for fixed-time artificial insemination with synchronization,” Ketchum says.

Three general benefits of AI include:

Access to bulls with more genetic potential at a lower cost than natural service sires.
Greater bull-to-cow ratio for cleanup.
Access to sexed semen. Sexed semen allows producers to be more consistent in producing high-quality replacement females and high-quality steers.

AI also reduces risks such as bull injuries or failed breeding soundness exams, which can cost producers thousands of additional dollars each year.

AI with synchronization, also known as fixed-time AI, takes the benefits of AI in general to a whole new level because calves have both genetic and age uniformity.

“They’re going to be more similar in age when it comes to weaning time,” Ketchum says. “And then you have a greater set of immunity because they’re getting vaccinated at similar ages.”

Overall uniformity is attractive to feedlots and bred-heifer buyers as well.

She says, “If you’re selling bred heifers, you can breed those heifers to a really popular sire, which will then increase demand for those when you go to sell them. So there’s a whole gamut of benefits from fixed-time AI.”

To fully reap the benefits of AI, producers must set themselves up for success.

“A lot of people would love to just show up on AI day and say, ‘It’s going to be a wonderful day. We’re going to get all these cows bred.’ But in reality, it’s everything leading up to that day and everything following that day that really dictates how successful that event is,” explains Ketchum.

Communication between the producer and AI technician, supply provider, semen provider and employees or day workers is all-important.

“The synchronization protocol typically is three days minimum, if not more,” explains Ketchum. “You might need a crew for all of those days, so communicate which days and times they are needed.”

Once all the supplies and extra supplies are taken care of, facilities also need to be in working order.

Ketchum explains, “If you don’t go through your facility and make sure that your chute’s working and that everything’s set up to work where everything flows really well and then something happens and your timing gets off, then that impacts your AI date as well.”

Managing expectations also matters when determining how successful an AI event was or wasn’t. Keep in mind experience levels of technicians, if timing was off for the protocol or if weather events occurred.

“Hot is really bad for conception rates,” says Ketchum.

However, there’s only so much producers can do if the weather shifts or a storm rolls in.

AI is a valuable tool for cattle producers across the world. Producers are sure to reap the benefits if effort is taken to prepare the cattle and crew prior to breeding day.
Listen to the full conversation on the Casual Cattle Conversations podcas t.

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Matching Forage to Fertility: How to Choose the Right Calving Window

Wed, 13 May 2026 17:49:11 GMT

There is no single “best” calving season in the beef industry, but there is a “best” system for your specific resources. While the choice between spring and fall calving often sparks debate at the local sale barn, the real driver of profitability isn’t when you calve — it’s how tightly you control the window.

“One of the most important management decisions in a cow-calf operation is determining when cows should calve,” says David Lalman, Oklahoma State University professor and Extension beef cattle specialist. “Yet, there is no single ‘best’ calving season for every ranch. The ideal system depends on forage resources, labor availability, weather patterns, marketing plans and overall management goals.”

He explains regardless of whether producers choose spring calving, fall calving or even a combination of both, having a defined and controlled calving season is one of the most effective ways to improve efficiency and profitability.

The Economic Power of a 75-Day Window

Research and standardized performance analysis (SPA) data collected from nearly 400 herds in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico demonstrated that longer breeding seasons increased cost of production. In fact, each additional day in the breeding season increased cost per hundredweight of calf weaned.

“Herds that reduced breeding seasons from year-round exposure to approximately 75 days substantially lowered production costs while also improving calf uniformity,” Lalman says. “Uniform groups of calves are generally worth more at sale time because buyers prefer cattle that are similar in age, size and management background.”

Controlled breeding and calving seasons also simplify management. Vaccination schedules, nutritional management, pregnancy diagnosis, weaning and marketing can all be streamlined when cows calve within a relatively short window. In contrast, year-round calving often creates nutritional and labor challenges because cows are in different stages of production simultaneously.

Spring Calving: Lower Costs, Higher Weather Risks

According to Lalman, spring calving remains the most common system in Oklahoma and much of the Southern Plains.

“One advantage of spring calving is that cows are typically dry, not producing milk and pregnant during winter feeding,” he explains. “The dry, gestating period represents lower nutritional requirements compared to post-calving when cows are producing milk. Thus, wintering costs are generally lower for spring-calving cows.”

He adds calving too early, for example in January or February, in Oklahoma offsets some of this advantage.

“Spring-calving systems are not without challenges,” he stresses. “Severe late-winter and early-spring storms can result in newborn calf losses. Another disadvantage is that cows can slip in body condition during early-spring forage green-up.”

High-moisture “washy” grass lacks the dry-matter density needed to meet the requirements during lactation. Cows tend to burn a lot of energy “chasing” bits of tender green forage and ignore available low-quality standing forage or hay provided, resulting in inadequate forage intake and weight loss. This challenge is exacerbated when the early green-up period coincides with peak lactation.

Lalman says delaying the calving season too long can expose females and herd sires to extreme late-summer heat stress during the breeding season.

Fall Calving: Better Body Condition, Higher Feed Bills

Fall-calving systems offer a different set of advantages and disadvantages.

“Fall-calving cows are usually in excellent body condition at calving because they have recovered body reserves during summer grazing,” he explains. “Calves are also generally older and heavier at weaning. However, on most ranch operations in Oklahoma, winter supplementation costs are greater in fall-calving cows. Increased nutrient requirements for lactation in combination with lower-quality winter forage or hay results in a dramatic gap in nutrient supply.”

Without proper adjustments in the nutritional program, cows can experience rapid weight and body-condition loss during the breeding season. In addition, if calving starts too early, extreme heat during late summer can lead to weak or even stillborn calves.

The Silent Profit Killer: Heat Stress and Conception

Heat stress deserves increasing attention in Southern beef systems.

“Breeding cattle during periods of high heat and humidity can reduce conception rates, lengthen the postpartum interval and negatively impact bull fertility,” Lalman summarizes. “In some regions, pregnancy rates may decline substantially when cows are bred during late July through early September. Adjusting breeding and calving seasons to avoid predictable periods of extreme heat may improve reproductive performance.”

The BCS Benchmark: Setting the Stage for Rebreeding

Regardless of calving season, body condition management remains critical. Lalman says mature cows should generally calve in a body condition score (BCS) of approximately 5, while first-calf heifers should be closer to a BCS 6.

“Long-term data consistently show that pregnancy rates decline dramatically in thin cows,” he says. “Producers should evaluate whether their calving season aligns with forage availability and allows cows to maintain adequate body condition economically.”

Adoption of synchronization and artificial insemination (AI) is gradually increasing in the commercial beef cattle operations. Lalman says recent research indicates that pregnancy rates to AI are improved when cows are slightly gaining weight and condition during the breeding season. This is most economically achieved through timing of the calving season and selection for cattle that are a good match to the forage system.

One Season or Two? Balancing Management and Market Risk

Lalman summarizes there are also trade-offs between operating one calving season versus two.

“A single calving season simplifies management and creates larger, more uniform groups of calves to market,” he says. “Multiple calving seasons may spread marketing risk and increase bull utilization, but they also complicate labor, nutrition and herd health programs.”

Ultimately, the “best” calving season is the one that best matches the ranch environment and available resources. Producers should design systems that minimize purchased feed, maintain reproductive efficiency and fit local forage resources.

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Heavy Steers and Lean Cows: Drivers of the 2026 Ground Beef Market

Tue, 12 May 2026 15:48:30 GMT

In a market defined by record-breaking prices, an unlikely partnership is driving the value of ground beef: 980-lb. carcasses and the lean cull cows needed to balance them out. While fed cattle weights have reached historic highs, they’ve created a massive surplus of fat trim that requires an equally historic amount of lean blending beef to meet consumer demand. This blending math — combined with tight supplies and a shift in culling patterns — is pushing cull cow prices to new heights.

David Anderson, Texas A&M professor and Extension specialist for livestock and food product marketing, in a recent Southern Ag Today article , summarizes that cull cow prices keep climbing.

“While calf and fed cattle prices have continued to set new record highs in the cash and futures market, cull cow prices have continued their slow ascent to new highs as lean beef prices keep pulling cow prices higher,” Anderson explains. “Southern Plains cull cow auction prices increased to almost $180 per cwt in late April, up about $15 per cwt since January. The seasonal price increase has been smaller than normal this year. Cutter-quality cows have increased about $30 per cwt., almost 25%, since the beginning of the year.”

(USDA-AMS, Livestock Marketing Information Center)

The Blending Effect: Why 980-lb. Carcasses Need Lean Cows

Blending math is the process of mixing high-fat trim from fed cattle with 90% lean beef from cull cows to meet consumer demand for specific ground beef ratios. Anderson stresses one overlooked boost to lean beef prices has been record-large fed cattle dressed weights. Average federally inspected fed steer dressed weights have remained more than 980 lb. per carcass since late 2025.

“Larger carcasses produce additional fat that requires more lean beef for blending to boost its value as ground beef rather than just tallow entering the fats and oils market,” he says.

Glynn Tonsor, Kansas State University professor of agricultural economics, says when the beef industry harvests animals bigger than ever, it is also getting more 50% lean and 50% fat trimmings per animal than ever before. He points out most consumers don’t directly consume 50/50, thus it is an input into ground beef production, and it only works if there is more lean to blend with it.

If there is not enough U.S.-produced lean to blend, the next option is to import lean.

Dairy Culling Shifts and the April Pullback

After exceeding slaughter of a year ago through the first 10 weeks of 2026, dairy cow culling pulled back to year-ago levels during April.

“Dairy cow culling typically peaks in January and February each year, then declines into midyear,” Anderson says. “The decline in dairy cow slaughter has pulled down total cow culling as weekly beef cow slaughter has held at steady but low levels. For the year, total dairy cow slaughter is reported up 6% compared to last year while total cow slaughter (beef and dairy) is down 5%.”

(USDA-AMS and USDA-NASS, Livestock Marketing Information Center)

Beef and dairy cow slaughter is reported weekly by region of the U.S. In recent weeks, Anderson says reported regional cow slaughter data has declined due to confidentiality rules that prevent publication if there are too few buyers to prevent revealing any one operation’s actions.

(USDA-AMS and USDA-NASS, Livestock Marketing Information Center)

“The lack of reporting due to confidentiality concerns has been a problem in fed cattle reporting for many years,” Anderson says. “On the positive side, the weekly national cow slaughter data includes all of the regions, including those that could not be reported regionally.”

2026 projected cow culling is based on year-to-date beef cow slaughter.

(Oklahoma State University)

Retention vs. Liquidation: The Impact of Record Calf Values

Anderson says record-high calf prices are likely keeping cows on the ranch or dairy that otherwise would have been culled to get one more calf out of them. As those calves are born and move to weaning, there may be an increase in culling as those cows come to market.

“Cull prices tend to peak midyear, so there is room for cow prices to continue to increase over the next couple of months,” Anderson says. “Beyond just the seasonal pattern arguing for higher prices, cow culling should continue to be lower than last year, further supporting prices. Beef cow slaughter is expected to remain well below a year ago. Better milk prices should restrain dairy cow culling even though the herd remains large.”

Analyst Predicts Cull Cow Prices Will Remain Elevated

Adding to the discussion on cull cow marketing strategies, Don Close, Terrain chief beef analyst, explains, “Growing up in sale barns we always used to say the best day of the year to sell a used cow is the first day of baseball season. There is some grounding in that date. As soon as grass greens, after a producer has kept her and fed hay all winter, he isn’t going to sell her if he has grass, especially if he thinks she is bred. Once she has calved and grass is available, the producer isn’t inclined to do much unless it is a drought or injury issue. At this point they will wait until fall weaning and cow-sorting time.”

He also points out another driving factor for cull cow prices is the strength of ground beef prices supported with the beginning of the grilling season — prepared-meat manufacturers’ demand is at its peak. Hot dog and lunch meat sales go up as children are out of school and with ballpark hot dog consumption.

(USDA-AMS, Livestock Marketing Information Center)

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The High Cost of Haste: Why Early Pasture Turnout Could Cost You $6 a Pound

Fri, 08 May 2026 15:13:36 GMT

It’s May. The cows are restless at the sight of green grass just on the other side of the fence. Your lawn is a bright green, and pastures are becoming green. Before you decide that the pasture looks good enough to turn cattle out on, think again. This year, that decision carries more weight than ever.

Iowa State forage specialist Shelby Gruss recently joined “ Beef Collective ” host Patrick Wall on the podcast to talk through what producers should be thinking about as they prepare for spring turnout. At the top of the list: don’t turn out too early, and don’t underestimate what that decision costs you in the long run.

“The No. 1 thing it takes to grow grass is grass,” Wall notes.

Why Early Turnout Backfires

In the spring, grass looks more mature than it really is. Visually, that vibrant green signals that the grass is ready to be grazed on. Turning cattle out too early puts underdeveloped plants under pressure they cannot handle yet.

“We also think that way because spring is when our grass grows the best, typically,” Gruss says. “Typically, we think, ‘Oh, we’ll get ahead of it by doing this.’ But we’re actually just starting off on a bad foot in general.”

That above-ground growth sets up pastures for success. Turning out too early, combined with continuous grazing of the same plants, does not give grass a chance to fully develop.

“If we turn out too early, especially this year, with producers saving more heifers and trying to expand, we’re going to put ourselves behind the eight ball before we ever hit peak growing season,” Wall says.

What “Ready” Actually Looks Like

Gruss recommends a minimum 10-inch height benchmark for grass in continuous grazing systems. That height gives the plant enough leaf area to continue photosynthesizing even while cattle are actively grazing. In operations that use rotational grazing, cattle can be turned out on shorter grass but must be moved more quickly to avoid eating the grass down in one pasture.

“The plant uses photosynthesis; you have to have above-ground growth to support the whole plant,” Gruss explains.

Sunlight captured in the blades of the grass is transformed into nutrients and energy to support healthy grass. When cattle graze a plant too low, they strip away the leaf area the plant needs to capture sunlight. Without that above-ground growth working to support it, the plant essentially has to start over. That recovery draws from the root reserves, weakening the plant over time and reducing overall pasture production.

“If we’re constantly hitting it, we are not giving that plant an opportunity to grow and keep producing,” Gruss says.

Hay as a Management Tool

In this season, carryover hay is widely available and affordable. Feeding hay to keep cattle off grass can be used as a bridge strategy.

“A cow is smart enough — and dumb enough — that if you put dry hay and green grass in front of her, she’s going to nub down whatever’s growing before she touches the bale,” Gruss adds.

Before turning cattle out on grass, ensure they are full and not ready to eat everything in front of them. This will slow down their excitement to graze on grass while supporting the grass growth, recommends Gruss.

For producers tempted to split the difference, Gruss suggests a stair-step approach. Turn cattle out for a limited time, bring them back in and shut them off the pasture, then feed hay until the grass is ready to handle the pressure of the herd grazing.

The Financial Stakes

“Every pound that calf gains on the side of that cow this year has been historically worth about $5 to $6 right now per pound. You can’t make any hay that’s ever worth $5 to $6
a pound,” Wall says.

Producers who mismanage spring turnout risk shortening their grazing season, reducing the number of grazing days available in the most valuable time in the cattle market in a generation. Using a stair-step approach supports the grass for grazing throughout the whole season.

Have a Plan

No season goes perfectly. Between weather and the market, many factors are out of our control. Choosing when to turn out cattle to graze this spring, however, is within our control. Producers who have thought ahead of the season and prepared a backup plan will have the most gain while protecting their pasture.

“Grazing is the cheapest option that we can have,” Gruss summarizes. “If we manage them like we manage our corn or soybeans, we’re going to get the most productivity that we can.”

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New World Record: G A R Market Maker Valued at $2.1 Million After Historic Sale

Thu, 07 May 2026 19:07:23 GMT

G A R Market Maker set a new world record on May 4, selling to Riverbend Ranch, Idaho Falls, Idaho. The son of B&B Preeminent out of GAR Kansas N762, sold in the Gardiner Angus Ranch Meating Demand Sale.

According to the American Angus Association, with a value of $2.1 million, G A R Market Maker outvalues the past record holder — SAV America — that sold in 2019 for $1.51 million for 80% semen interest, or total value of $1.887 million.

“We want to extend both gratitude and congratulations to Frank VanderSloot and the entire Riverbend Ranch team for making one of the boldest moves in the Angus seedstock business by investing $1.05 million in 49% of GAR Market Maker,” Mark Gardiner says. “Market Maker is a young sire destined to change populations of beef cattle. This, to date, is the culmination of what we can achieve with a commitment to multi-trait discipline over decades.”

Gardiner adds Riverbend Ranch has a powerful footprint in Angus seedstock production, but its Riverbend Meats has created a supply chain of home-raised, high-quality Angus beef as well as sourcing cattle from the family ranching operations in the Western U.S. using Riverbend genetics.

“Riverbend owns the supply through processing and marketing to consumers and understands the consumer signals sent every day that quality and taste are the No. 1 criteria for selecting our product for their families,” he says.

Semen will be available from Market Makers Beef Genetics.

Visit Angus.org for the full sale report.

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What Makes A Bull Worth $ Millions?

Why Cattle Vaccination is a Lifetime Investment in Reproductive Success

Thu, 07 May 2026 15:24:31 GMT

Cattle vaccination is more than a seasonal chore; it is a lifetime investment in reproductive efficiency. According to Dr. Becky Funk, a veterinarian at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, producers must move beyond “automatic” vaccination and adopt an intentional, long-term strategy.

Funk was a featured speaker during the Beef Reproduction Task Force’s 2025 Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle Symposium. She says producers should view vaccination as a long-term strategy, not just a short-term fix for the breeding season.

What is the Metabolic Cost of Vaccinating Cattle?

Vaccines are not free, either in cost or impact on cattle. There is a metabolic cost that impacts their immune response, affecting overall performance.

“Research has shown that even a single immune response requires significant energy,” Funk says. “In young calves, that energy demand can represent a meaningful portion of their daily maintenance needs.”

Why is Colostrum the Foundation of Lifetime Immunity?

Every vaccine given should be intentional, not automatic. At birth, colostrum is the foundation of immunity. Building a strong immune system for calves is critical for their productive life.

“Calves that don’t receive adequate colostrum are more likely to get sick or die early, and those that experience illness early in life are often less productive in the long term,” Funk says.

Shifting to Reproductive Protection

A lifetime of immunity is hard to reach without a strong start. By the time a heifer is ready to be bred, her immune system has already been shaped by early decisions.

“As heifers enter the breeding herd, vaccination programs typically shift to reproductive-focused vaccines,” Funk adds.

What is the Difference Between Killed and Modified-Live Vaccines?

Depending on the animal, the right vaccine matters. According to Funk, heifers and cows require different approaches.

Killed Vaccines: These are often safer for pregnant animals because they do not contain live pathogens, but they do not stimulate as strong of an immune response. As a result of dead pathogens, the immune system is more stimulated, causing a larger impact on their metabolic response. They often require a booster.

Modified-live vaccines (MLV): These contain weakened live pathogens that replicate in the animal. While they offer stronger, more complete protection, they carry a risk of causing abortions if used improperly in pregnant cattle. While MLVs can offer stronger protection, they carry more risk if misused.

Defining Your Vaccination Goals

Funk recommends selecting vaccines based on what you are specifically trying to protect:

Conception: Ensuring the cow is ready to breed.
Pregnancy: Preventing early embryonic loss.
The Fetus: Protecting the unborn calf from pathogens like BVD.
The Newborn: Ensuring the cow produces high-quality colostrum to protect the calf after birth.

Different goals result in different vaccines used. All equally important but depend on the operation.

Built Over a Lifetime

Health is a long-term investment in a cow’s productivity. Choosing the right vaccines and using them at the right time, plays a critical role in their life. That process begins before birth and continues throughout the animal’s life.

“The goal is to build a herd that’s resilient over time, not just protecting them for one breeding season,” Funk summarizes. “We’re not just vaccinating for today; we are setting these cows up for the rest of their productive life.”

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Stopping Flies in 2026: 4 Steps to Battling These Economic Pests

Wed, 06 May 2026 14:24:43 GMT

With fly season approaching, now is the time to evaluate and refine your fly management plan for 2026.

“Every year, stable and horn flies cause significant economic losses, but a good fly control program can minimize this impact,” says Cassandra Olds, Kansas State University Extension entomologist. “Although often grouped together, these are very different flies that need different control approaches.”

Dr. Ashby Green, Neogen senior technical services veterinarian, says, “If you are seeing flies, ticks, lice or insect damage to your cattle herd, we know there is an economic impact; however, that impact can become far greater than production or weight gain loss alone. Insect pressure affects grazing patterns of cattle; it affects their comfort and it can lead to health issues. Some of those health issues can be definite, such as anaplasmosis.”

The vectors responsible for spreading anaplasmosis include horse flies, stable flies and ticks. This condition has been reported in most states across the U.S., while the disease has been recognized as endemic throughout the South and several Midwestern and Western states.

Jonathan Cammack, Oklahoma State University assistant professor and state extension specialist, says, “With horn flies, we’re looking at mastitis risk, so that’s going to impact both dairy cattle and also our cow-calf operations. A lot of times, horn flies will feed on the udders of the animals, and they transfer the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria because they land on the manure, then they go back to the animal to feed and bring those bacteria with them.”

Several other conditions are propagated by flies, including pinkeye, which can be spread by face flies and causes inflammation and ulceration of the eyes. Pinkeye-affected calves are, on average, 35 lb. to 40 lb. lighter at weaning compared to healthy calves, according to a University of Kentucky report.

Cammack predicts flies are costing the U.S. cattle industry $6 billion annually in losses.

“That encompasses everything from actual loss in production due to decreased weight gain or decreased milk production, veterinary needs associated with treatment of cattle with exposure to pathogens from some of these insects, and then also the control measures associated with managing those individual fly species,” he explains.

David Boxler, Nebraska Extension livestock entomologist, says if previous control efforts underperformed, consider adjusting your approach.
“The best control method will depend on several factors including efficacy, cost, convenience and your current herd management practices,” he summarizes.

He also reminds producers that horn flies can migrate from neighboring untreated herds, masking the effectiveness of your efforts and increasing fly pressure. For this reason, Boxler recommends a comprehensive, integrated fly control.

Olds shares these tips for stopping flies, or at least reducing their impact:

Step 1: Know What You Have

“The first step in developing a good fly control program is knowing who you have,” Olds explains.

(Kansas State University)

Horn flies feed 20 to 30 times a day and stay associated with their chosen animal 24/7, with females only leaving briefly to lay eggs. Stable flies in contrast only feed once or twice a day, remaining on the host for a short period of time (3 to 5 minutes).

When not feeding, flies are resting in shaded areas such as building sides and vegetation. This short feeding time means producers often underestimate their stable fly burdens. While both flies affect pastured cattle, horn flies are not a problem in confined settings such as dairies and feedlots. This is because horn flies need fresh, undisturbed manure as a breeding site while stable flies can develop in any decaying plant matter such as hay bales, feed bunk spill over and decaying grass.

“Their populations can build rapidly and often exceed the economic injury level defined as 200 flies per animal,” Boxler adds about horn flies. “Once fly numbers surpass this threshold, cattle experience reduced weight gain and milk production due to fly-induced stress and altered grazing behavior.”

Step 2: Reduce Populations

Olds explains with either fly species, using non-insecticidal control methods is essential for slowing insecticide resistance. For horn flies, pasture burning in spring kills any flies overwintering, which can significantly reduce fly populations emerging as weather warms. A healthy dung beetle population will also significantly reduce your fly numbers for free.

“Dung beetles are very susceptible to macrocyclic lactones so avoid using injectable and pour-on avermectins (abamectin, eprinomectin, ivermectin etc.),” Olds says.
Because horn flies die within hours of being removed from cattle, non-chemical walk-through traps can be effective if animals pass through it regularly.

Step 3: Eliminate Breeding Grounds

Round hay bales result in significant wastage, which when mixed into the manure-contaminated mud around bales provides a prime breeding site for stable flies.
Olds explains each round bale can produce 200,000 stable flies.

“Reducing hay waste and spreading/drying areas around finished bales is key to reducing stable fly numbers,” she says. “In feedlots, minimizing feed spillage and waste is critical to remove breeding sites for stable and house flies.”

Parasitoid wasps are available from multiple sellers and should be released around fly breeding sites. These are very effective if released before fly populations emerge and released repeatedly through the fly season.

Be careful using insecticides if using parasitoid wasps as they are very small and sensitive to these chemicals. Keeping vegetation surrounding pen areas short and exposed will remove sheltered resting areas, making life more difficult for the flies.

Step 4: Consider Chemical Control Options

Olds stresses chemical control options should be used as a supplement not the basis of a fly control program.

(Kansas State University)

“For horn flies, insecticidal ear tags are an effective method of control if correct rotation is used,” she adds. “Rotate the chemical class of your tag annually, in year one using pyrethroid-based products, year two use organophosphate-based products and year three use macrocyclic lactone tags. Repeating this three-year cycle will reduce the selection pressure on the fly populations, slowing down the spread of resistance.”

Olds also shares these tips for effective tagging: “Tag both ears and place the tag directly into the ear. For the tag to be effective, it must come into direct contact with the animal’s skin, which is greatly reduced when daisy chained.”

Little of the tag touches the body when attached to another tag.

(Cassandra Olds, Kansas State University)

She also instructs producers not to tag young calves and adds mature bulls with thick necks might not benefit from tagging unless the tag can touch the skin.

“Although the box may label products as effective for four to five months, field trials have shown that tags only remain effective for 90 to 100 days,” Olds says. “If possible, wait until fly populations are noticeable before tagging animals to get control over peak fly activity period. After 90 days, remove the tag to reduce the risk of insecticide resistance developing.”

(Neogen)

To increase coverage, pour-ons of the same chemical class as the ear tag can be used to increase coverage.

“Be aware that a macrocyclic lactone pour-on will impact dung beetle populations,” Olds says. “Make sure animals are dosed accurately according to weight and ensure head to tail coverage. Due to their low contact time with the host and preference for the legs, topical insecticidal treatments are generally not useful against stable flies.”

Spraying the legs can provide some relief, although it should be used sparingly as most sprays are pyrethroid-based, not allowing for effective annual rotation. Baits and premise sprays can be useful in controlling both house and stable flies, look for areas where flies are found resting such as building walls, fence posts and inside sheds and shelters.

Another option is feed through insect growth regulators (IGRs) to control horn fly. Olds says it is important cattle consume the correct amount, which can be difficult under free-choice conditions.

“Under-dosing will result in resistance developing over time, reducing product efficacy,” she says. “Although labeled for stable fly control also, when manure containing the IGR is diluted in the mud and hay, it is no longer effective.”

Often marketed as dung beetle safe, Olds says evaluations of these claims in most species have not been carried out, and their true impact remains unknown.

“Insecticide resistance to IGRs can and does happen; to slow this, rotate annually between Methoprene-based (Group 7A) and diflubenzuron-based products (Group 15),” she adds.

The Veterinary Entomology website , veterinaryentomology.org/vetpestx, provides a searchable database that can help producers select the right products. Producers can select from type of animal, insect and application method.

“For on-animal use, select the best product to allow an annual rotation between pyrethroid (Group 3A), organophosphate (Group 1B) and macrocyclic lactone (Group 6) groups,” Olds says.

Green also recommends using a multi-pronged approach to insect control. He says fly tags, IGR products, pour-ons, back rubbers and dust bags can help diminish the population.

“Both back rubbers and dust bags can be highly effective if managed correctly,” Green advises. “Keep in mind, when these are put out to withstand the elements, including moisture and rain, it’s key to keep the dust fresh or the oil recharged in your back rubbers. Otherwise, they will diminish in their ability to control flies quickly.”

Cammack stresses the importance of accurate dosing by the individual animal’s weight and following label guidelines.

To best control flies and insects on cattle operations, “the easy and effective way is the best way,” Green summarizes. “It’s up to you and with the help of your veterinarian to help create that combination.”

Is the Grass Ready? Rethinking Pasture Turnout Beyond the Calendar

Tue, 05 May 2026 11:07:21 GMT

As soon as pastures green up, beef producers start thinking about turnout. They don’t want to keep feeding harvested feeds any longer than needed.

Pasture turnout is an important time in a cow herd management calendar. It is critical to make sure both the forage and cattle are ready before opening the pasture gate.

Extension specialists explain it is important not to turn out just because the calendar date says it is time. Turning out too soon can result in reducing the forage production potential for the entire grazing season.

What Should Producers Consider Before Turnout?

Aaron Berger, University of Nebraska beef systems educator, says there are three things to consider ensuring a successful and safe pasture turnout:

1. Forage readiness
“The first and most crucial step is assessing grass conditions,” Berger says. “Producers should ensure there are at least three leaves present.”

This is important during drought conditions, when grass availability may be limited. Berger says turning out cattle too early can exacerbate feed shortages and potentially damage pasture vegetation.

Ron Lemenager, Purdue beef specialist, says forage height is important. He explains cool-season grasses should be at least 6” tall.

“Leaf material is critical for photosynthesis and plant recovery after grazing,” he says. “The early-season forages are typically high in water, potassium and soluble nitrogen content but low in energy. We used to refer to this as ‘washy grass.’”

The challenge here is that cattle cannot eat enough dry matter to meet their energy requirement. This is especially true for replacement heifers coming off a gaining diet to reach approximately 60% of their mature weight by the beginning of the breeding season. When turned out to lush early-season pasture, they can crash on energy and go into negative energy balance.

“This results in a reduction in the number of heifers cycling and early embryo death,” Lemenager says. “If the breeding season coincides with this energy crash, fewer heifers will become pregnant until they adapt.”

Kansas State University Extension veterinarian A.J. Tarpoff says it is important to scout pastures before opening the gate: “Be sure to check forage availability and make any stocking rate adjustments, if necessary.”

2. Water source evaluation
Water availability and quality are paramount. Berger reminds producers to carefully inspect water sources, especially during drought years.

Stock ponds, dams and dugouts may not be recharged as usual, potentially leading to poor water quality. Water with high solid content can be unsuitable for livestock consumption, making thorough assessment critical.

3. Noxious plant identification
Berger says scouting the pasture for potentially harmful plants is essential. Drought conditions can make cattle more likely to consume plants they would normally avoid. Identifying and addressing these potential hazards can prevent livestock health issues.

Get Ahead of Weeds

As winter gives way to spring and pastures begin to green up, it is critical to have a plan in place to control weeds before they become a problem. Abe Smith, Corteva Agriscience range and pasture specialist, encourages producers to get ahead of weeds this spring to set their operation up for success.

“We see long-term impacts throughout a season that if you don’t get to weeds early, we see residual effects of that later into the season,” Smith says. “This has impacts in terms of seed production or getting additional weed seeds produced if they don’t remove those weeds early in the season.”

Smith says the true benefit of managing weeds in range and pasture is really maximizing the amount of forage that producers have available, and the economic benefits play out pretty simply if producers look at pastures as pounds of grass.

“Pounds of grass correlate to pounds of beef at the end of the day,” he says. “I have generally used the math that if we remove a pound of weeds through control measures from the pasture, we can put a pound or more of grass back into the pasture.”

Lemenager says soil condition is another factor to consider.

“If it is cool and soils are water-logged, the root system is compromised,” he explains. “Additionally, hoof action on wet soils will result in pugging (deep depressions). The challenge here is that weed seeds that have accumulated and laid dormant over the years but [are] buried below the germination zone. When soils are pugged, these weed seeds are now closer to the surface and germinate.”

(Lexy Tenpenny)

Be Sure the Cow Herd Is Ready

Along with the forage, it is important to make sure the cows are ready for turnout. Tarpoff shares four tips producers should consider before sending cattle to pasture:

Perform spring herd health program
Tarpoff reminds producers of the importance of doing bull breeding soundness exams before putting the bull to work. He also encourages producers to do pre-breeding vaccinations, consider synchronization options and plan for common pasture ailments such as foot rot and pinkeye .

Make a plan for internal and external parasites
Now is the time to decide how you are going to tackle flies, ticks and internal nematodes. Berger reminds producers there are several options available to help control flies and to consider the option that works best for your management plan.

Establish summer mineral program
Tarpoff encourages producers to prepare mineral feeders and calculate needs and delivery intervals.

Check cattle identification
Be sure cattle are identified before turnout. This can include brands if required in your area or tags. Along with identification, Tarpoff shares these strategies for protecting cattle from theft: Lock gates, and don’t leave cattle penned up overnight in an easily accessible location. He also encourages producers to communicate with neighbors who share a fence line when turning out about what types of cattle are going and how the cattle are identified.

Minimize Grass Tetany Risk, and Look Out For Bloat

Lemenager encourages producers to watch for two potential health issues that can occur at grass turnout: grass tetany and bloat .

Early season lush pasture grasses are high in water content, potassium and soluble nitrogen but low in magnesium and energy content. It should be noted that pastures containing legumes provide a grazing diet that is somewhat higher in magnesium.

“ Grass tetany can be a problem, especially in older lactating cows that are less efficient in mobilizing magnesium from body stores,” Lemenager explains. “Feeding a high-magnesium mineral for several weeks prior to turnout is a standard recommendation to minimize the incidence of grass tetany.”

He reminds producers that magnesium, usually in the form of magnesium oxide, is not palatable. Therefore, it is important that mineral intake be monitored.

Lemenager says legumes are beneficial to diet quality, providing nitrogen for companion grasses and increased forage production, but lush legumes can cause bloat . As legumes advance in maturity, the risk for bloat does decrease.

(Farm Journal)

Good Fences Matter

Tarpoff says it is important to walk fence lines and scout pastures.

“Be sure to check forage availability and make any stocking rate adjustments, if necessary,” he says.

Berger adds it is important to look for fence damage, especially from winter weather and to ensure fenced-out areas remain inaccessible. He also says it is beneficial to consider potential fence-line interactions with neighboring herds.

Tarpoff encourages producers to have an open line of communications with neighbors. It’s a good idea to share, when turning out, what types of cattle are going out (yearlings, pairs, bulls) and how the cattle are identified — tags or brands.

“This open communication helps identify strays earlier,” he adds.

Through following these strategies with accurate planning and preparation, pasture turnout can be stress-free for both the producer and the cow herd.

Your Next Reads:

BQA at the Chute: 10 Tips for Spring Calf Processing

Mon, 04 May 2026 12:58:30 GMT

Spring calf processing is a critical window for establishing herd immunity, but its success depends entirely on the details. By following Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) principles, producers can maximize vaccine efficacy and protect carcass value through precise needle selection, proper injection site placement and strict adherence to the “one-hour rule” for modified-live vaccines.

“It will soon be time to process spring-born calves, which brings up the topic of best management practices and following BQA principles for all treatments,” says Chris Clark, Iowa State University Extension and outreach beef specialist, in a recent Growing Beef Newsletter. “The overall concepts are pretty simple, but it takes attention to detail to get the most out of each treatment and to ensure our product is as safe, wholesome and palatable as possible.”

Clark shares these 10 simple reminders for spring processing:

Follow label directions for all treatments, including injections, implants, pour-ons, insecticide ear tags, etc.
Administer all subcutaneous and intramuscular injections in front of the shoulder in the injection site triangle of the neck.
Select the appropriate needle diameter and length based on the weight of the animals being treated, viscosity of products being injected and routes of administration. Needles should be small enough to minimize tissue damage but large enough to prevent bending and breaking. The diameter should be appropriate for the viscosity of the product, and the length should be appropriate for the route of administration. For young calves weighing less than 300 pounds, 18-gauge needles are reasonable for most vaccines. For subcutaneous injections, ½ inch to ¾ inch needle length should work well, and for intramuscular injections, ¾ inch to 1 inch needle length should be appropriate. Keep in mind the greater the needle gauge, the smaller the diameter and vice versa.

Recommended needle size based on animal weight, viscosity of product and route of administration.
(BQA Field Guide)
Practice injection technique and pay attention to the angle of injection and the feel of the needle within the tissue. Subcutaneous injections should be applied at approximately 45 degrees to the body and intramuscular injections should be applied at approximately 90 degrees to the body. With experience, you can learn to feel whether you are in that subcutaneous space or whether you have entered the underlying muscle.
Change needles frequently. At a minimum, needles should be changed every 10 to 15 head. Additionally, a new needle should always be applied before refilling a syringe and any bent or burred needles should be immediately replaced.
For reusable syringes, clean well after each use by thoroughly rinsing with hot water. Refrain from using soaps and disinfectants because residues of these substances can damage vaccines and reduce vaccine efficacy.
Handle vaccines with care. When using modified live vaccines, mix only what you can use in an hour. Keep vaccines at steady, reasonable temperatures and take care to avoid freezing, excessive heat and exposure to UV light. Reconstitute modified live vaccines with sterile transfer needles and roll or invert gently to mix rather than shaking vigorously.
When possible, choose subcutaneous routes of administration over intramuscular routes. Some products are labeled to be given either way and when you have the choice, choose subcutaneous. Any insertion of a needle or injection of a substance into muscle tissue will cause tissue damage, potentially impacting the quality of that product.
Document complete processing/treatment records, including animal or group identification, treatment date, products administered, withdrawal times, earliest date animals would clear withdrawal times, dose administered, route of administration, name of person administering drugs and any prescription information.
Do not mix different vaccines or drugs in the same syringe or use a syringe to administer different products without washing in between. Try to place injections at least 4 inches apart from other injections to avoid product mixing/interaction within animal tissue.

Stored Joules vs. Output Joules: What Really Powers an Electric Fence?

Mon, 04 May 2026 15:37:41 GMT

It is usually the headline spec, and bigger numbers can make a unit seem more powerful at first glance. But that number does not always tell the full story.

Stored joules represent potential energy, or the amount of energy the energizer can hold internally. Output joules represent delivered energy, or the amount of energy that actually leaves the energizer and travels through the fence under real working conditions.

That difference matters, because your fence does not operate inside the energizer. It operates across acres of land in changing, less-than-perfect conditions.

The confusion often starts with how energizers are marketed. Stored joules are easy to highlight and easy to compare on paper. But energy held inside the unit is not what controls livestock. What matters is the energy that makes it to the wire.

Why Output Joules Matter

Output joules measure the usable power your fence is truly delivering.

This is the energy that travels the length of the fence, pushes through vegetation load and helps maintain performance as soil conditions and weather change. It is what delivers the pulse animals feel when they encounter the fence.

That consistency is what builds and maintains respect for the electric fence itself. Without it, even an energizer with impressive numbers on a spec sheet can fall short in the pasture.

Why Real-World Conditions Change Everything

Electric fencing rarely operates under ideal conditions. Fence lines cover distance. Vegetation creates load. Soil moisture affects grounding. Weather changes resistance. Add in splices, connections and overall fence pressure, and the system is challenged every step of the way.

So, while stored joules may look strong on paper, the real question is whether that energy can perform under adverse conditions and still carry power all the way down the line.

What Happens When Power Does Not Deliver

When output drops, fence performance drops with it.

A fence that tests strong near the energizer but weak at the far end creates inconsistency, and livestock learn that quickly. When pulses feel uneven or weak, animals are more likely to test the fence. Over time, that can lead to more breakouts, more time spent checking fence and more labor pulled away from other important work.

At that point, it is no longer just a fencing problem. It has become an operational problem, because a fence only works if animals respect it everywhere.

(Datamars)

What to Look for When Comparing Energizers

When evaluating energizers, it is important to look beyond stored joules alone and consider how the unit performs under load.

The real measure of performance is how well it maintains power across distance, how it handles vegetation pressure and how reliably it performs when conditions are less than ideal.

Those are the factors that determine whether a fence holds strong day after day.

The Bottom Line

Stored joules tell you what an energizer can hold.
Output joules tell you what your fence receives.

And when it comes to controlling livestock, the number that matters most is the one that makes it all the way down the fence line, because the only power that matters is the power at the wire.

Stop the Guesswork: Build a Targeted Parasite Plan

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:20:18 GMT

As grass greens up and cattle head back to pasture, many producers are “throwing darts in an open field” when it comes to parasite control, says Tennessee Hereford breeder Ryan Proffitt.

The real-world frustration of deworming programs is knowing if they are working, Proffitt says.

Norbrook Technical Services Veterinarian Megan Bollin explains fecal egg count testing, targeted treatment, concurrent deworming, maintaining refugia and smarter pasture management can turn parasite control guesswork into a targeted plan that protects herd health, preserves dewormer efficacy and ultimately adds pounds to the calf crop.

Both Bollin and Proffitt agree a pragmatic roadmap for modern parasite control is anchored in diagnostics, targeted treatment and strong relationships with veterinarians.

Bollin shares five practical strategies to get the most out of today’s dewormers and preserve them for tomorrow:

1. Sit Down with Your Vet.

She encourages producers to map out a herd‑specific internal and external parasite plan with diagnostics built in.

“Your local vet should be your key partner in designing a program that fits your parasites, climate and management style,” Bollin says.

2. Use the Right Product at the Right Time.

Use the correct class, correct dose and consider concurrent deworming when resistance is a known issue. Your local veterinarian can guide you on proper treatment timing to avoid wasting money.

3. Manage Pastures with Parasites in Mind.

Bollin says pasture management is as important as treatment. Pasture type, quality, topography and drainage should all be considered in your plan, knowing we can’t always do much to change them.

“Only about 10% of the parasite life cycle is in the animal; 90% is on pasture,” she says.

Larvae generally stay below 4” on the grass blade. She says it is important to avoid overgrazing pastures below this height and manage stocking density accordingly.

“When you get a big rain after a drought, the larvae that had been waiting in the manure pats can quickly become infective and significantly increase the risk of infection, especially in young calves,” she says.

4. Prioritize High-Risk Animals.

Calves, stockers, bulls and replacements should be prioritized with the strictest parasite control and monitoring programs.

“Calves, replacement heifers and bulls are typically heavier shedders and more susceptible to the effects of parasites than mature cows,” Bollin explains.

Proffitt notes that many producers historically concentrate on keeping mature cows dewormed while underestimating calves’ role as carriers.

“We don’t need to, and shouldn’t be, treating every animal like we always have,” Bollin adds. “That has gotten us in a pickle with resistance.”

5. Measure and Adjust Treatment.

Bollin says it is important to know where you started. Get a baseline fecal egg count, understand your resistance patterns and monitor the efficacy of your treatment program. So many variables change from year to year: climate, weather conditions, new animals and other stressors. It’s critical to routinely evaluate your deworming program and avoid blindly doing the same thing year after year.

(Proffitt Family)

Diagnostics Are Essential, Not Optional

Fecal egg count reduction tests (FECRTs) are the most practical method we have to determine if dewormers are still working and at what level.

Bollin explains the process includes:

Collecting rectal fecal samples and recording identification.
Treating animals with product or products of choice.
Resampling the same animals by taking rectal fecal samples, 10 to 17 days later, depending on the drug or drugs used.

The lab will count how many eggs per gram are in that fecal sample. There will be a pretreatment and a posttreatment sample. Bollin says the goal should be greater than 95% reduction.

Proffitt argues FECRTs are worth the hassle.

“If we don’t have a game plan on what we’re doing and we’re just rushing,” he says. “What did we win at the end of the day if we don’t know what we’re doing?”

Proffitt says testing tells him which cows he can skip treating, which saves him money.

Bollin explains in many cases mature cows 3 years and older, shedding low levels of eggs, on a good plane of nutrition, with no other stressors or health concerns (including liver flukes), should not need to be dewormed.

“This supports ‘refugia’ — intentionally leaving low-risk animals untreated to slow resistance,” she explains. “Because they’re mature, they’ve got a competent immune system that can actually fight off these parasites by themselves without a dewormer.”

To reduce costs further, Bollin says producers can pool fecal samples from multiple cows into a single submission.

(Deb Gustafson)

Beating Parasite Resistance Starts at the Chute

Bollin says dewormer resistance, long documented in sheep and goats, is being seen more frequently in U.S. cattle herds.

She says overuse, underdosing and treating every animal regardless of need are major drivers in resistance.

“All of these deworming products, when they were originally approved, had very high levels of efficacy. We’re talking 99% and above,” Bollin explains. “As we’ve continually used these products, efficacy has been challenged because resistance has increased.”

If you’re using products that are no longer effective in your herd, you’re spending money on drugs that don’t work, and you’re not getting the production benefits. One way to restore efficacy when resistance is present is to use concurrent deworming.

Why Concurrent Deworming Matters

Bollin says concurrent deworming is using two dewormers from different classes at the same time. She stresses producers need to work with a veterinarian to avoid unknowingly pairing two products from the same class, which doesn’t provide the intended benefit.

She explains the benefits of concurrent deworming are:

· Higher overall efficacy when two partially effective products are combined. “Say you’ve got two products, for example, each with 70% efficacy. By using them together, you can raise your overall efficacy to levels exceeding 90%,” she says.

· Broader spectrum of parasite coverage.

· Models would suggest a slowing of resistance.

· Only sustainable long-term when used in conjunction with a refugia program. This means we don’t treat every animal. We want to keep a few “good” worms around that are still susceptible to the drug.

Bollin gives the example of pairing a benzimidazole, or a “white dewormer,” such as fenbendazole, albendazole or oxfendazole, with a macrocyclic lactone such as ivermectin, moxidectin or eprinomectin.

She emphasizes the industry unfortunately doesn’t have a lot of studies looking at this, but a study published in 2025 highlighted the benefits of concurrent treatment with fenbendazole in situations where resistance to macrocyclic lactones is likely.

Dung Beetles Are Valuable Allies

Dung beetles break up manure pats, exposing eggs and larvae to sunshine and dry conditions. Some dewormers are more compatible with dung beetle health.

“Two of the dewormers that are not harmful are moxidectin and fenbendazole,” Bollin says. “Those are two molecules that are generally safe for dung beetles, and those could be a good option to pair together.”

Facility where researchers collect blood samples and weigh cattle before and after they are transported. Steers have painted numbers on their backs so their activity can be followed on camera.

(Stephanie Hansen)

Application Technique and Dosing Accuracy Matter

Bollin says accurate body weights, not visual estimates, are critical, explaining underdosing is a key driver of resistance.

“One of the biggest contributors to resistance is that we are just not giving them enough active ingredient,” she says. “If you don’t have scales, it is best to treat to the heaviest body weight in the group, so that you make sure that they’re all getting enough.”

She also stresses the importance of storing deworming products correctly.

“Leaving them by the chute in temperature swings can reduce efficacy,” she says.

Proffitt also reminds producers to read labels and understand rain windows with pour-ons and to avoid mud or manure on hides. Bollin notes that injectables can provide more certainty that the animal is getting the full dose, whereas oral drenches can be spit out and pour-ons can run off or be groomed off by penmates.

Both Bollin and Proffitt frame parasite control not as one more chore on an overloaded to-do list but rather as a strategic, data-driven opportunity to protect animal health, slow resistance and convert good management into pounds sold.

Your Next Read:

Determine Parasite Load and Follow With Treatment

Cow-Calf Checklist: Are Your Cows Ready For Breeding Season?

Fri, 01 May 2026 13:40:41 GMT

Each month, cow-calf producers are faced with management tasks related to seasonal and production goals. Kansas State University Extension cow-calf specialist Jason Warner summarizes the top 10 management practices producers should check off their to-do lists in May.

1. For cows that are borderline BCS (4.0 to 5.0) going into breeding, consider:

Supplementing two to three weeks prior to and through first cycle.
Early weaning if BCS doesn’t pick up during the season.

2. For those synchronizing females for breeding, schedule your protocols well in advance and mark key dates on your calendar.

The estrus synchronization planner is a great tool!
Inventory your Artificial Insemination (AI) supplies and order products in advance.

3. If you have a fall herd, schedule pregnancy checks and make culling decisions.

How were pregnancy rates relative to last year?
Do we need to re-think our fall and winter nutrition program for fall calvers?

4. Plan your mineral supplementation for this coming spring and summer.

Make an effort to measure intake regularly and adjust it as needed.
If using fly control products , start them at recommended times for your area.

5. Consider magnesium levels in mineral supplements, particularly for cows grazing lush, rapidly growing forages.

Wheat, rye, triticale, oats, bromegrass and other cool-season forages.
Risk of grass tetany is greatest for lactating cows and older cows.

6. Schedule bull breeding soundness exams well in advance of breeding.

Ensure younger and older bulls are introduced and their hierarchy is established prior to the start of breeding.
Closely monitor bulls the first few weeks of breeding for signs of injury.

7. Review your calf health protocols before spring turnout.

Consider implanting nursing calves and grass cattle.
Calculate the cost of gain versus value of gain for creep feeding .

8. Consider supplementing yearling replacement heifers around the time of breeding under the following conditions:

They have little post-weaning grazing experience.
Forage supply is limited at grazing turnout.

9. If pastures are drought-stressed to start the grazing season:

Consider delaying turnout or adjusting stocking rates.
Make plans now so you are prepared to early wea n if necessary.

10. Make and evaluate important production calculations:

Calving distribution (% firstcycle, second cycle, third cycle).
Calving intervals.

Protecting Your AI Investment: 10 Rules for Proper Semen Handling

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:35:56 GMT

Proper semen tank management is critical to the success of any artificial insemination (AI) program. A standard 20-liter liquid nitrogen (LN) tank can hold up to 720 straws, representing a significant financial and genetic investment.

Sandy Johnson, Kansas State University Extension beef specialist, says in a recent Beef Tips article , “Collecting and packaging semen is a routine job performed by highly trained professionals. Once it leaves the collection site, its quality is maintained only through proper handling as it makes its way to the cow.”

A LN tank can be thought of as a large thermos with a vacuum between the inner and outer walls. The vacuum must remain intact to maintain the proper storage temperature. If frost is seen on the outside of the tank, action must be taken immediately as the seal has been lost.

Johnson shares these 10 rules for proper semen handling:

Keep the Tank Off Concrete: Store your LN tank on a wooden pallet or stand. Direct contact with concrete can cause corrosion and lead to a vacuum seal failure.
Inspect for Frost Daily: Regularly check the outside of the tank for frost. If frost appears, the vacuum seal is lost, and the semen must be moved to a functional tank immediately.
Monitor Nitrogen Levels Weekly: Establish a routine for checking LN levels. Never let the tank run dry, as sperm cells are permanently damaged when temperatures rise above -130°C.
Transport Tanks in Open Spaces: Never transport a tank in the passenger compartment of a vehicle. Oxygen displacement happens rapidly; always use the bed of a pickup or a well-ventilated trailer. An ABS Global study found that nitrogen gas can reach unsafe levels in a truck cab in just three minutes.
Maintain a Strict Inventory: Use an inventory system to know exactly where each sire is located. This reduces the time the tank is open and prevents unnecessary exposure to the neck’s temperature gradient.
Use Tweezers, Not Fingers: Always use tweezers to retrieve straws. Fingers can transfer heat to adjacent straws and often require the canister to be raised higher than necessary in the neck.
Follow the “8-Second Rule": Keep all handling below the frost line in the neck of the tank. If you cannot retrieve a straw within 8 seconds, lower the canister back into the liquid nitrogen for at least 10 seconds.
Calibrate Thaw Bath Temperatures: Ensure your thaw bath is between 95°F and 98°F before use. Temperatures outside this range can cause thermal shock to the sperm cells.
Observe the 15-Minute Window: Only thaw as many straws as can be inseminated within 15 minutes. Post-thaw semen quality declines quickly as it reaches room temperature.
Prevent Straw Contact During Thawing: When thawing multiple straws, ensure they do not touch each other in the water. Contact can cause uneven thawing and reduce the total number of viable sperm.

Best Practices for Thawing Semen

Johnson encourages producers to consider these four strategies when thawing semen:

Monitor Temperature: Use a digital thermometer to ensure the thaw bath is between 95-98°F.
Timing: Thaw straws for 30 to 60 seconds.
Efficiency: Only thaw the number of straws that can be inseminated within 15 minutes.
Protection: Load straws into a pre-warmed AI gun and protect them from cold shock or direct sunlight during transport to the cow.

“We often focus on factors that might impact cow fertility when evaluating an AI program,” Johnson summarizes. “Just as important is the male contribution. Review your process to ensure that semen quality does not limit the outcome.”

Your Next Reads:

Successful Heifer Pregnancy on First Service Brings Lifetime Returns

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:31:28 GMT

Getting heifers developed, inseminated early and confirmed pregnant plays a significant role in the lifetime productivity of beef and dairy cows.

“Replacement heifers are an investment in the future of beef and dairy operations,” says Joe Dalton, University of Idaho professor and extension specialist in dairy cattle reproduction. “It takes two years to raise a heifer before she starts generating returns.”

Achieving a successful pregnancy from first service breeding, especially when practicing artificial insemination (AI), has the most potential to realize the greatest return on investment for their development.

“There is a difference between an animal that calves at 23 months versus 29 months of age,” Dalton says. “The longer it takes to get a heifer bred, the more it increases management costs and lowers their lifetime potential.”

Why Age Matters

Age at first calving directly impacts the productivity and longevity of beef and dairy replacement heifers. With current calf values, early calving heifers offer greater profit potential for beef and dairy producers.

“Earlier first calving in beef herds brings greater longevity and more lifetime weaned pounds,” Dalton says.

Ideally, beef heifers are selected from cows that calve early in the breeding season so they have more time to develop and can then be bred on first service to calve at the start of their first calving season.

“Heifers that calve early tend to keep calving early and produce more weaned pounds,” Dalton says. “Late-calving heifers rarely catch up or pay off on their $1,500 to $2,500 development costs.”

Most dairy farms don’t have the same seasonality as beef herds, since calving occurs year-round to keep a steady stream of cows in milk, but the same thinking holds true.

“The goal for dairies is to develop heifers that are approximately 22 to 24 months of age at calving,” Dalton says. “The data shows that dairy heifers calving in that age range have more longevity and produce more lifetime milk than older heifers at first calving, which can help sooner recoup development costs that can exceed $2,500.”

Set Up For Reproductive Success

For heifers to conceive on first service and stay productive, it begins with good management practices early in life.

“It all starts when the heifer is born,” Dalton says. “And that sounds like a cliché, but it’s not, because that heifer will carry all of her life experiences with her.”

Beef and dairy heifers require high-quality colostrum after birth to support their immune systems. Then health must be maintained through vaccinations, deworming and timely treatment of illnesses. Ensure nutrition supports growth to at least 55% of mature weight by breeding at 13 to 15 months of age.

“With nutrition, heifers need to stay in appropriate condition to have the best reproductive outcomes,” Dalton says. “Fertility is lower when they are under- or over-conditioned. It needs to be just right.”

Dalton recommends dairies have heifers at a body condition score (BCS) of 2.75 to 3.25 on a 5-point scale. Beef operations should have heifers at a 5 to 6 BCS on a 9-point scale.

“Having heifers at those benchmarks is really beneficial for overall fertility,” Dalton says.

Some breeding indicators have easy-to-read bullseyes (black surface ink) on them. Once the bullseye, or the equivalent surface area, is rubbed off the animal, that animal is ready to breed and is up to three times more likely to result in a confirmed pregnancy.

(Estrotect)

Breed Heifers On Time

Once heifers are developed to their target size goals, it’s time to begin a breeding program. There are some variances in AI breeding protocols between mature cows and heifers.

“The difference is that while heifers respond to synchronization protocols the same as cows, there’s a little bit of variation in heifers in the number of follicular waves,” Dalton says.

A vital component of a breeding protocol to ensure success is to utilize estrus detection through tools, such as an Estrotect Breeding Indicator, to accurately gauge estrus intensity.

“Determining when estrus intensity is at its highest is incredibly important to fertility because the pieces of the puzzle are all where they should be when it comes to hormones and the reproductive tract being ready for insemination,” Dalton says. “Data has revealed that high estrus intensity leads to increased pregnancy and decreased pregnancy loss for cattle.”

Estrus detection aids, such as breeding indicator patches, help monitor estrus activity and provide a quick visual indication when heifers reach high estrus intensity.

“Accurate estrus detection tells us a heifer is ready to breed,” Dalton says. “Synchronization protocols can combine estrus detection and AI or timed-AI for better pregnancy rates.”

Heifer-specific protocols have been developed by the Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council (DCRC) and the Beef Reproduction Task Force (BRTF) that can be accessed on their websites for specific details. A cattle reproductive specialist can also help identify which protocol will work best to breed heifers.

“By implementing quality management protocols, you’re better controlling the investment in developing heifers so they can become productive members of the herd,” Dalton summarizes. “For both beef and dairy producers, earlier age at first calving results in lower costs and higher lifetime productivity.”

For more information on accurately breeding heifers with breeding indicator patches, visit ESTROTECT.com .

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Halter Launches World-First Virtual Fencing Via Satellite

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:22:54 GMT

Halter, the leading digital operating system for pasture-based ranches, today announced the launch of direct-to-satellite connectivity for its smart cattle collars — a world-first that removes the need for cell towers or on-ranch infrastructure.

Using Starlink, the new technology enables ranchers to manage cattle anywhere they can see the sky. Combined with a suite of new tools for reproduction, animal behavior and precision pasture management, the release significantly expands what is possible for cattle ranch management.

Beef ranchers in remote and rugged regions that were limited by connectivity can now turn to virtual fencing to run more productive and sustainable operations — at a time when they face rising fuel costs, labor shortages and aging workforce pressures.

Halter’s internal modeling estimates direct-to-satellite capability expands coverage of the U.S. beef cattle market by 2.5x.

Until now, Halter’s solar-powered, GPS-enabled collars relied on Halter’s proprietary long-range radio towers. With direct-to-satellite, the collars can communicate via Starlink, eliminating ground infrastructure entirely.

“Connectivity has been the final barrier to bringing virtual fencing across remote and expansive ranches,” says Craig Piggott, CEO and founder of Halter. “Direct-to-satellite allows ranchers to manage hundreds of thousands of acres in the most remote terrain on the planet. Combined with our new suite of product features, these ranchers can be even more productive.”

HALTER 2026 | High Lonesome Ranch | Loma, CO

(Halter)

Case Study: Managing 225,000 Acres at High Lonesome Ranch

Lloyd Calvert, livestock and agriculture manager at High Lonesome Ranch in western Colorado, has been among the first to deploy the satellite-enabled system across the ranch’s 225,000 acres of complex terrain.

“Halter has changed the game completely,” Calvert says. “Satellite unlocks the ability to run very remote country while still seeing what the cattle are doing, without needing someone with them all the time. We call ourselves Halter junkies now because we can check to see where the cows are any time of day, no matter where I am. It gives me a great deal of assurance and that’s irreplaceable.”

Beyond the Fence: New Tools for Heat Detection and Feed Demand

Alongside the launch, Halter has rolled out its largest-ever product upgrade for beef cattle ranchers. The update includes an all-in-one heat detection tool to identify non-cycling animals before breeding, a new behavior tool providing near real-time insight into how feed allocation and pasture quality are influencing cattle performance and advanced grazing features including high-resolution pasture mapping, pasture metrics, zone and block management and a feed demand calculator.

Since Halter launched in the U.S. in 2024, it has expanded to more than 25 states. Globally, its customers have created nearly 900,000 miles of virtual fencing.

Halter direct-to-satellite will be available to beef operations in the U.S., New Zealand and coming soon to Australia and Canada. Interested ranchers can learn more at halterhq.com/beef

Your Next Reads:

Drought Stalls Expansion: 75% of U.S. Beef Cows in Dry Conditions

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 16:18:29 GMT

The formula for herd expansion may be simple — “grass plus profitability equals more cattle” — but the reality on the ground is anything but. CattleFax analyst Holden Ramey says nearly three‑quarters of the U.S. beef cow herd is currently in drought, sharply limiting the industry’s ability to rebuild numbers.

While profitability signals are strong, he says, dry pastures, high interest rates, costly inputs and market volatility are forcing many ranchers to delay or scale back heifer retention.

“We’re seeing some retention on a limited basis,” Ramey notes, “but it’s a slow, cautious rebuild, not a full‑throttle expansion.”

Ramey shared an outlook on the U.S. beef cattle cycle, herd dynamics, feed and grain markets, drought impacts, trade, demand and price expectations across the cattle and beef complex during the “Breakthrough Symposium: New World Screwworm Preparedness” on Friday in San Antonio, Texas.

His core message: supplies will stay historically tight, demand is exceptionally strong, expansion will be slow and cautious, and effective risk management is critical.

Here are seven key takeaways from Ramey’s presentation:

1. Slow, U‑Shaped Herd Rebuild – Tight Supplies for Years

Ramey predicts the beef cow herd is near its low for this cattle cycle, but the rebuild will be slow and cautious, not a sharp V‑recovery. Weather, high interest rates, input costs, aging producers and volatility are all dragging out expansion, even with strong prices.

He says calf and feeder supplies will stay tight, keeping markets in a higher trading range, even if the industry stops making new highs every year.

2. Drought Is the Biggest Brake on Expansion

About 75% of the U.S. beef cow herd is in drought, compared to a long‑term average near 20%. El Niño and a neutral pattern offer some relief ahead, but much of “cow country” is still in rough shape, limiting heifer retention and herd growth.

(CattleFax)

He predicts some producers who tried to hold heifers may be forced to “send them down the road” due to lack of feed.

3. Demand Is Exceptionally Strong Despite High Prices

He says since January 2020, the average price of ground beef has increased approximately 72% and retail beef is up approximately 61%, versus overall inflation up approximately 28%.

Ramey admits even with cheaper pork and poultry, there’s little evidence of major trade‑down away from beef — more trading down within beef (steaks to ground) than out of the category.

Higher grading — about 85% Choice and Prime, and approximately 20% Prime — plus the protein diet trends and GLP‑1‑driven nutrition advice have helped build durable beef demand.

4. Feed, Days on Feed and Carcass Weights Are Offsetting Fewer Head

Ramey says cheap corn supports longer feeding periods. On average, steers are averaging 190 to 200 days on feed. Simultaneously, average carcass weights increased 52 lb. in 2024 and 2025, which is equivalent to about 1.9 million head of added supply. Note: The long-term average of carcass weight increase historically has been 5 lb. per year.

(CattleFax)

He explains this means the rally is as much demand‑driven as supply‑driven — not the tightest tonnage ever, but prices are still very strong.

5. Trade Shifts: Mexico, Canada and Boxed Beef Flows

He says the screwworm ‑related closure of the Mexican border in 2025 slashed imports from approximately 1 million head to around 200,000, significantly tightening U.S. feeder supplies.

Even if the border reopens, Ramey does not expect a quick return to 1‑million‑head years due to health protocols and more feeding capacity in Mexico.

He also says exports are down and imports up, as tight U.S. supplies and high prices draw more product in and keep more domestic beef at home.

6. Leverage and Profitability Have Shifted Toward Producers

After the COVID/packing bottleneck era, the industry now has more slaughter capacity than cattle, so leverage has swung away from packers. Fed cattle’s share of the cutout has rebounded to around 59%, versus the low 40s during COVID.

He reports the total industry profitability is near $690 per head to be shared across sectors, with cow‑calf and stocker operators capturing a big share.

7. Price Outlook: High Plateau Now, Eventual Downside Later

For 2026, Ramey predicts fed steers will mostly be $240 to $250, potential spike to $250 to $255 in late spring/early summer, then softer into $230 to $235 in Q4.

Feeders and calves stay historically high but could see modest pullbacks later in the year, likely smaller than the average 12% seasonal break because supplies are so tight.

He says the CattleFax team expects slightly softer prices next year across cutout, fats, feeders and calves — but still elevated versus history.

Longer term, after this huge up‑cycle — up approximately 200% for calves — Ramey warns of roughly 25% downside risk across fed, feeder and calves sometime later in the 2020s or early 2030s, making risk management critical while times are good.

His message to producers was both optimistic and cautionary. Tight cattle numbers, exceptional beef demand and renewed leverage at the ranch and feedyard suggest that today’s strong prices are not a fleeting windfall, but part of a higher trading range that could persist for years.

At the same time, Ramey warns, drought, high costs, shifting trade flows and the inevitability of the next down‑cycle mean this phase of the market must be treated as an opportunity to shore up balance sheets, invest wisely and lock in margins where possible. The fundamentals may be on the cattle industry’s side, he stresses, but capturing the full benefit of this rare window will depend on how aggressively producers manage both production and price risk in the months ahead.

5 Ways Smart Collars Improve Grazing

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:31:22 GMT

Virtual fencing is suddenly everywhere in ranching headlines — but not every operation is a fit. In a wide-ranging discussion on the “ Future of Beef Show ,” Halter President Andrew Fraser walks through the practical questions producers should ask, from herd size and terrain to water infrastructure, labor and available cost-share programs.

Fraser, originally from New Zealand, with a background in management consulting, mining and tech startups, was the featured guest on episode 20 of the Future of Beef podcast. Halter spent about five years in research and development, and is now commercially active in New Zealand, Australia and the U.S. with more than 750,000 animals on the system.

“If we were being fancy, we would say that it’s an operating system for a farmer. But really at the heart of it, we are a collar for cows,” Fraser explains.

Beyond grass and fencing, Fraser sees Halter as a tool for addressing some of ranching’s most pressing human challenges: labor and succession. By automating low-value tasks like shifting poly wire and checking distant pastures, Halter lets employees focus more on animal care and land stewardship.

A Collar, an App and Virtual Fences

Halter’s system centers on a lightweight, above-neck collar and a phone app. Ranchers use the app to draw virtual fences or breaks on a map. The collars then hold or move cattle using sound and vibration cues, with a very mild pulse as a back-up.

When an animal approaches a virtual boundary, it hears a directional beep in one ear to encourage it to turn back. When it’s moving the right way, it feels a gentle vibration — something Fraser likens to a smartwatch buzz — as positive reinforcement.

Halter can also shift cattle between paddocks, replacing the need for riders, dogs or temporary electric fence to move a herd. Behind the scenes, the collars continuously track behavior such as grazing, ruminating, resting and walking, plus GPS location.

In dairy herds, Halter already uses this behavior data for heat detection and health alerts. In beef systems, it’s being used for grazing management, stock location and early warning of unusual behavior.

Training Cows with Sound, Not Shock

Fraser is quick to point out that Halter is designed around sound, not pain.

“Even our strongest pulse is 1/50 the strength of an electric fence,” he says. “So, this is not a significant shock, or anything like what cows are used to with hot wire or poly wire.”

Training a herd typically takes two to seven days. Ranchers start with an existing strip of hot wire, then gradually move it and pair the fence with sound cues, teaching cows to use sound instead of a visible wire as their boundary.

According to the podcast discussion, here are five ways a smart collar can change how producers graze cattle:

1. Turn Fixed Fences into Flexible, On‑Demand Paddocks

With virtual fencing, producers can draw the paddock on an app instead of building it with posts and wire.

“On your app, you’ll draw where you want your cows to stay, or your cattle to stay, and they will stay there,” Fraser explains.
Using the Halter system, producers can:

Tighten or loosen breaks day‑to‑day.
Change paddock shape, for example hub‑and‑spoke around water instead of rectangles.
Redraw setbacks along waterways or sensitive areas instantly as rules or conditions change.

According to Fraser, using Halter, producers can graze to the residuals they want, in the spots they want, without being locked into permanent fencelines.

2. Intensify Rotational Grazing and Boost Pasture Utilization

For all the technology involved — solar-powered collars and towers, satellite data, and machine learning — Fraser insists Halter’s value proposition starts with something simple: better grass management.

Because cattle can be kept in tighter areas and moved frequently with sound cues, rotational grazing becomes much more precise and practical. Fraser says producers “should be able to make the cost of Halter back from gains in pasture alone.”

By holding cattle in small areas and moving them often, Fraser says:

You push cattle to eat more uniformly — not just the “ice cream” spots.
You protect regrowth by not overgrazing favorite areas.
You can raise stocking rate or hold numbers steady with fatter cattle.

He gave an example of a Wyoming ranch that went from grazing approximately 800 to 1,500 head in a year, pairing Halter with better water infrastructure to fully use its grass.

3. Replace Chase-and-Pressure Moves with Calm, Low‑Stress Shifts

Instead of horses, bikes, dogs and yelling, with the Halter system cattle learn to move on their own in response to sound and vibration. Fraser explains the cues are beeps in one ear or the other to turn left or right. Apple Watch–style vibrations are positive reinforcement when they’re headed the right way.

This changes how producers graze by turning musters and shifts into scheduled, low‑stress, almost “hands‑off” events, which is better for cattle, people and time use.

4. Use Data on Behavior and Biomass to Refine Grazing Decisions

Smart collars and supporting tools give real data on what’s happening in the paddock, not just gut feel. Behind the scenes, Halter has invested heavily in data science and artificial intelligence (AI). Today, Halter uses on-collar machine learning to interpret behavior, plus satellite imagery and weather data to estimate pasture biomass and residuals.

Halter helps producers track where cows are, how long they graze, ruminate, rest and move. It can help calculate how many tons of dry matter are consumed.

“We’re able to tell you what the residual is when the cow goes in, what the residual is when the cow leaves,” Fraser says.

This helps ranchers understand herd-level dry matter consumption between moves. Looking ahead, Fraser is especially interested in individual cow feed efficiency — answering a question many ranchers have wondered about for years.

Right now, he said, producers know which cows are the heaviest or give the most milk, but not how much forage each one eats to get there. Halter hopes to help identify animals that eat less but still perform well, offering new levers for genetic selection, profitability and sustainability.

Today, consumption data is built from satellite data plus time in paddock plus behavior. He says the research and development aim is to go from herd-level to cow-level intake, so producers know which cows are genuinely efficient, not just big eaters.

5. Integrate Grazing with Water, Labor, Risk and Regulations

Fraser summarizes once producers can move virtual fences easily, grazing decisions connect more tightly to other constraints:

Water access: Producers can design hub‑and‑spoke paddocks around fixed water or move small troughs and redraw breaks to match.
Labor: Less time on poly wire and fence repair frees people up for land and animal work; Fraser notes that avoiding “boring tasks” is a big benefit.
Risk and emergencies: Ranchers have used Halter to move cattle in floods or fires when it’s unsafe or impossible for people to go in, and fences might burn or wash out.
Changing rules: When riparian buffer rules tightened in New Zealand, farms with Halter simply redrew the virtual exclusion zones. “If you had fencing, that would have been a huge cost to move all of that. If you had Halter, you just drew a different break on your phone,” Fraser says.

Those factors change grazing from a mostly fence‑ and labor‑limited system to one that’s more data‑, water‑ and policy‑aware, and much quicker to adjust.

Not a Fit For Everyone

Fraser was upfront that Halter falls short or isn’t a fit yet for:

Very small “hobby” herds — fewer than 50 head — return on investment doesn’t pencil out.
Extremely large, ultra-extensive ranches — tower-based communications still limit practicality.
True cow-level feed intake/efficiency today — still herd-level, with individual metrics as an research and development goal.
Full system integrations and “AI for everything” — they’ve done relatively few integrations so far and intentionally avoid AI where it doesn’t clearly help producers.

For an industry built on barbed wire and sweat, the idea that cattle might one day move mostly to the sound of a beep and the buzz of a collar is a big shift. But for Fraser, that’s exactly the point: use technology to make ranching more controlled, more flexible and more humane — without losing sight of what matters most on the land.

Your Next Reads:

What is the Difference Between LRP and LGM Cattle Insurance?

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:10:24 GMT

With cash outlays for feeder cattle and replacement females at record highs, Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) and Livestock Gross Margin (LGM) have become essential tools for managing financial risk. Recent USDA updates have made these subsidized programs more accessible, now allowing producers to insure unborn calves and set price floors for multiple stages of production. According to Iowa State University’s Patrick Wall, these tools are designed to protect equity without limiting the upside of a strengthening market.

“Cash outlay for feeders, replacement heifer calves, yearlings, bred heifers and bred cows is certainly higher than ever in all sectors,” says Wall, ISU Extension and outreach beef specialist, in a recent Growing Beef Newsletter article. “No doubt, two important programs supporting the market are Livestock Risk Protection and Livestock Gross Margin. Recent updates have made these programs more attractive and less expensive to a much wider audience in the supply chain.”

Can You Insure Unborn Calves with LRP?

According to Wall, unborn calves can now be insured for a future sale date.

“This program can be utilized for both purchased bred females just arriving on farm as well as pregnant heifers and cows that have been part of the operation already,” he says. “The premium is subsidized by the government, much like traditional crop insurance.”

He shares these options:

If a producer has 100 cows to calve in April to May they can insure 95 unborn calves up to 599 lb. at weaning.
If a producer bought a group of bred heifers, they can insure their upcoming progeny to protect their initial investment.
“LRP does not insure the viability, health, weight or gavel price for any of those calves,” Wall explains. “You still have to manage them to the best of your ability. It does insure the futures price for feeder cattle will be at least what you insure it to be, on the date you specify. If the price actually goes up, there’s no penalty or premium increase; simply put those extra dollars in your pocket on sale day.”
If a producer wants to hold on to them post-weaning for another 90 days, they can insure them again for a future sale date.
If a producer wants to market some on-farm feed through the cattle by feeding them clear to finish, the producer can insure them a third time clear to market weight. “You’re setting the floor for the futures market,” he says. “The top side is still open should the market strengthen further during the feeding period.”

What is LGM?

“For the feedlot sector, margins matter,” Wall explains. “This program insures both the revenue side — fed cattle price — and the cost side — feeder cattle price and corn price — of a transaction, working in tandem.”

While the feed necessary to finish a given set of calves may already be purchased, its value can change. Likewise, futures markets on both fed and feeder cattle can be quite volatile.

“In some cases, all three segments of LGM can react negatively to each other,” Wall says. “This program insures that doesn’t happen for you, with a subsidized premium as well.”

Wall recently interviewed Tony Latcham of Stockguard Risk Management for the “Iowa Beef Collective” podcast . The episode summarizes both LRPs and LGMs and how to effectively use them, regardless of the size and scope of your operation.

Earlier Calves, Bigger Paychecks: Utilizing Estrus Synchronization to Increase Ranch Profit

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:44:46 GMT

In a cow-calf operation, timing is the primary driver of profitability. By using estrus synchronization, producers can ensure more than 50% of their herd conceives on the first day of the breeding season, leading to earlier calving dates and heavier weaning weights. According to Mario Binelli of the University of Florida, shifting the calving window to the “front” of the season ensures calves are older and more uniform when they hit the scale on sale day.

Binelli was a featured speaker during the Beef Reproduction Task Force’s 2025 Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle Symposium . He says the purpose of estrus synchronization is to get cows to come into heat and ovulate together in a short window of time. Estrus synchronization works with a series of hormone treatments to control the cow’s natural cycle; as a result they all come into heat at the same time.

The 3-Step Synchronization Process

By synchronizing cows, more of them are bred at the start of the breeding season rather than spread out over several weeks. Binelli shares these three steps to get a cow herd on the same schedule:

Reset the Cycle: A GnRH injection and a progesterone device (CIDR) are used to reset the follicular wave.
Producers typically start by giving a shot to reset the cows’ cycle and inserting a progesterone device to keep cows from coming into heat.
“We want to remove a dominant follicle — then a new follicular wave will emerge,” Binelli explains.
Induce Estrus: After approximately seven days, remove the CIDR and a Prostaglandin shot is given to bring the cows into heat simultaneously. Producers should watch their herd to identify when the cows are ready to breed.
“The goal is to have cows expressing estrus within a short, predictable window so producers can make breeding decisions more effectively,” Binelli says.
Insemination and Cleanup: Cows are artificially inseminated (AI) upon heat detection, followed by bull turnout approximately 15 days later to cover any remaining cows.

Because of the improved cost to reward ratio, more producers are utilizing synchronization protocols with natural service breeding programs . The Beef Reproduction Task Force’s website has a list of protocol options for producers to consider when planning their estrus synchronization program.

Read More About Synchronization Strategies:

Maximizing Reproductive Success: How to Use Estrus Synchronization to its Full Potential

Technology Takes the Guessing Out

Adapting to new technology makes heat detection easier. Accelerometers, commonly used in dairy cattle, are wearable devices on ear tags or collars; they are used to track rumination, activity and welfare. During the estrus cycle, a cow’s behavior changes, with activity peaking while rumination declines. The cow data is sent to the producers’ devices; from the patterns they can identify when she is ready to be bred.

“New technologies are helping decrease labor while increasing the accuracy of estrus detection,” Binelli says.

Read More About Technologies Available:

24/7 Employee: How One Rancher Is Using An App-Based Monitoring System

Bridging Genetics, Management and Technology in Beef Production

Another heat detection tool is heat detection patches placed on the cow’s back. Patches take the guesswork out to determine if the cow is in heat. As another animal mounts the cow, the paint on the patch is scratched, indicating she is in standing heat.

Why Timing Makes Money

Every day a calf is born earlier in the season adds age and weight. By consolidating the calving window through synchronization, producers reduce labor during calving and increase the total pounds of beef sold at weaning.

Your Next Reads:

Why Should Commercial Cattle Producers Track Birth and Weaning Weights?

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:28:15 GMT

Data is knowledge and knowledge is power, but are ranchers truly operating with the right pieces of data to make confident decisions in all areas of their operation?

“Most ranchers are making decisions without one of the most valuable pieces of data on their operation, which is actual weights,” says Dawn Anderson, CattleScales.com team member and Idaho rancher.

It’s easy to think actual weights are something only seedstock suppliers take throughout the year to report to breed associations; however knowing birth weights, weaning weights, yearling weights and mature cow weights is highly beneficial for commercial cattle producers as well.

She says, “Being able to track weights from birth through weaning and yearling gives you a much clearer picture of your herd.”

Dawn’s family tracks birth weight records to breed for ideal-sized calves for their environment.

“We look at birth weights closely — because too big or too small, both can cause problems,” she explains. “A small calf can lack the energy, and a big calf can struggle too — they’ve got to get up and get moving.”

As calves mature, knowing weaning weights or even pre-weaning weights eliminates marketing surprises on sale day and opens the door to more informed culling decisions.

“At weaning, we’re weighing both cows and calves so we can see if those cows are really pulling their weight,” says Anderson. “We use those weaning weights to help make culling decisions and evaluate cow performance.”

Cows that consistently produce low weaning-weight calves or calves with low average daily gain in backgrounding settings can easily be culled from the herd.

Average daily gains that are lower than in past years could indicate more than a genetic problem.

“If something’s off, it prompts you to ask questions — do we need to test feed, adjust the ration or change something?” Anderson says. “We’ll run cattle across the scale every 30 to 45 days just to see where we’re at.”

Another benefit of knowing weights on all classes of animals is reducing treatment costs and improving animal husbandry.

“Pharmaceuticals are costly — they’re really costly if they’re not effective,” Anderson expresses. “If you’re guessing at weight, you may be overdosing or underdosing, and neither one is good.”

In summer pasture settings, it’s not practical to bring cattle home to weigh them before treating them. However, even the knowledge of a previous weight is helpful in improving accuracy for treatment dosage.

There are a variety of scale systems producers can invest in either themselves or share with a neighbor.

“There’s not a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to scale systems,” Anderson says. “We start by talking through what the producer’s goals are and what’s going to work best for them.”

Producers should know which animals they want the ability to weigh, when they want to do this and how they want to use the information to determine which system is the best fit for their operation.

She says, “A lot of operations are set up where that chute is where all the decisions are being made — that’s where the scale should be.”

However, there are alleyway or even portable options for producers weighing in multiple locations.

“There are options — that’s the biggest thing people don’t always realize,” Anderson says.

Regardless of the type of scale you invest in or how you decide to utilize weight data, remember it’s about more than just recording a weight to say you have it — it’s about confidence in your decision-making.

“Having accurate weights gives you confidence in your decisions,” Anderson summarizes.

Listen to the full conversation on the “Casual Cattle Conversations” podcast .

Cow-Calf News

One Size Does Not Fit All: Customizing Your Herd’s Vaccination Schedule

Why Do We Give Vaccines?

Start With Clear Goals: What Are You Trying to Prevent?

Same Science, Different Herds

Work With Your Veterinarian — and Put It in Writing

Building a Practical Schedule: Cows and Calves

Don’t Forget Bulls and Replacement Heifers

Modified-Live vs. Killed Vaccines: Which is Right for You?

Beyond Vaccines: Parasites and Flies Still Matter

The Bottom Line: Use the Science, But Customize the Plan

What Products are Available to Prevent and Treat New World Screwworm?

Animal Drugs Conditionally Approved by FDA for NWS

Emergency Use Authorization of Animal Drugs for NWS

Prevention Options: Don’t Blanket Treat

Prep Now for a Productive Hay Season

Low-Stress Lessons: A Rancher’s Artistic Approach to Animal Behavior

CattleFax 2025 Survey: Record $2,246 Calf Revenue Drives Historic Cow-Calf Profits

Record Cash Cow Costs vs. Surging Calf Revenue

Benchmarking High-Return vs. Low-Return Operations

Key Management Correlations for High Returns

How Much Does it Cost to Keep a Cow?

Is the U.S. Cattle Herd Expanding?

Regional Performance Benchmarks

Market Outlook: Will Tight Calf Supplies Maintain Producer Leverage?

Nalivka: Beef Markets and Record-High Prices Going Forward

The Government Question: Let Markets Be Markets

Opportunity Cost: The Barrier to Heifer Retention

The Forage Insurance Policy: Why Diversity is Your Best Defense Against Drought

Thinking in Systems, Not Seasons

Herbicide Carryover and Field History

Matching Forages to Risk and Moisture Conditions

Cool-Season Annuals

Warm-Season Annuals

Strategic Use of Perennials

Soil Water Use and Recovery Periods

Establishment Timing and Flexibility

Nutrient Management Considerations

Grazing Management and Risk Distribution

High Bull Prices? Why AI is the Cost-Effective Genetic Alternative

Matching Forage to Fertility: How to Choose the Right Calving Window

The Economic Power of a 75-Day Window

Spring Calving: Lower Costs, Higher Weather Risks

Fall Calving: Better Body Condition, Higher Feed Bills

The Silent Profit Killer: Heat Stress and Conception

The BCS Benchmark: Setting the Stage for Rebreeding

One Season or Two? Balancing Management and Market Risk

Heavy Steers and Lean Cows: Drivers of the 2026 Ground Beef Market

The Blending Effect: Why 980-lb. Carcasses Need Lean Cows

Dairy Culling Shifts and the April Pullback

Retention vs. Liquidation: The Impact of Record Calf Values

Analyst Predicts Cull Cow Prices Will Remain Elevated

The High Cost of Haste: Why Early Pasture Turnout Could Cost You $6 a Pound

Why Early Turnout Backfires

What “Ready” Actually Looks Like

Hay as a Management Tool

The Financial Stakes

Have a Plan

New World Record: G A R Market Maker Valued at $2.1 Million After Historic Sale

Why Cattle Vaccination is a Lifetime Investment in Reproductive Success

What is the Metabolic Cost of Vaccinating Cattle?

Why is Colostrum the Foundation of Lifetime Immunity?

Shifting to Reproductive Protection

What is the Difference Between Killed and Modified-Live Vaccines?

Defining Your Vaccination Goals

Built Over a Lifetime

Stopping Flies in 2026: 4 Steps to Battling These Economic Pests

Step 1: Know What You Have

Step 2: Reduce Populations

Step 3: Eliminate Breeding Grounds

Step 4: Consider Chemical Control Options

Is the Grass Ready? Rethinking Pasture Turnout Beyond the Calendar

What Should Producers Consider Before Turnout?

Get Ahead of Weeds

Be Sure the Cow Herd Is Ready

Minimize Grass Tetany Risk, and Look Out For Bloat

Good Fences Matter

BQA at the Chute: 10 Tips for Spring Calf Processing

Stored Joules vs. Output Joules: What Really Powers an Electric Fence?

Why Output Joules Matter