Cow-Calf
University of Kentucky’s Kenny Burdine shares three things producers should consider when contemplating developing owned heifers versus buying bred heifers.
Beef producers and stakeholders confirm their optimism in 2025, but they are quick to admit the threats and challenges facing the industry’s continued profitability.
Rabobank expects the Jan. 1, 2026, beef cow inventory to be 28 million head — up 200,000 head from the prior year. A second increase of less than 500,000 head is likely over the following year.
Hay production may no longer be the most efficient or profitable use of your time and resources. A Missouri forage specialist encourages producers, especially those with fewer than 400 cows, to critically consider why they grow their own hay.
State of the Beef Industry survey participants and industry leaders share what’s impacting the growth of the nation’s cow herd, beef supply and demand.
Setting cattle up for success starts with building a robust immune system that can respond to disease challenges. Building immunity starts the day a calf is born.
Results from Farm Journal’s 2025 State of the Beef Industry Survey finds 72% of producers are optimistic about the future, 73% report profitability the past five years and 57% will add a member to their operation in the next five years.
The 2025 State of the Beef Industry Report summarizes optimism prevails yet challenges persist in today’s beef industry.
When condition scoring cows, producers should look beyond age, frame size, depth, length pregnancy status and hair coat. BCS is intended to provide a consistent system to quantify relative fatness regardless of other factors.
Auction barn license fees would increase nearly 1,700% as state ag department cites program deficits.
An Oklahoma rancher and his vet built a deworming plan that includes four practices that any producer can adopt: diagnostics, combination treatment, refugia and management.
From handwritten to high-tech, K-State veterinarians discuss practical strategies for keeping cow herd records.
Good pature and range conditions support cow-calf producers’ ability to grow herds. The right market incentives and time are also needed to see expansion.
Quantity and quality of beef produced per cow has drastically increased since 1951.
Two hidden, non-cash costs that are impacting cow-calf producers’ cost of production with today’s market prices.
While today’s cattle prices provide producers an incredible profit, it’s important for producers not to become complacent in day-to-day management and forget the weaning strategies that keep cow herds profitable.
Success in beef production is about building long-term partnerships and focusing on controllable factors. Through collaboration, all segments of the supply chain can work together to improve beef quality and consistency.
OSU’s Mark Johnson reviews the Oklahoma Gold and Oklahoma SuperGold supplementation programs as a means of adding profit potential.
K-State beef cattle experts provide insight on practical ways to reduce weight loss while transporting cattle to sale.
Florida Rancher Jim Strickland uses Vence system to improve wildlife habitat and waterways, protect cattle from predators and keep cattle safe during hurricanes.
Infection may not directly impact herd health, but it can have implications for nutritional management.
Specialists share strategies for evaluating herd performance following weaning and pregnancy check.
Preconditioning calf health programs prepare calves for better performance as they move through the system. That improved performance is measured in lower death loss, fewer health issues and better gain.
University of Nebraska’s Aaron Berger shares investment ideas for cattle producers to ponder as they experience increased income due to the high calf market.
A comprehensive herd-health program is crucial for the management and prevention of bovine respiratory disease.
Extension livestock management specialist Lacey Quail shares tips to help producers improve cow herd fertility.
Effective drenching relies on getting the medication in the right place, without waste.
How one Minnesota farmer is doubling down on covers and reaping the benefits.
Economist Dave Weaber shares beef market insights to help producers navigate demand, risk and future opportunities.