Management
As calving moves into full swing, many producers are thinking about vaccination programs they want to implement at branding. However, only a few are also considering how growth implants could be used as a management tool for the nursing calf.
It’s all about increasing calf performance and capturing a premium.
Here are some practical tips from special ranger Bart Perrier for the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association on protecting your operation from theft.
As producers continue to make both short-term and longer-term decisions in managing their operations it is useful to periodically step back and take stock of characteristics depicting the industry more broadly. The recently updated estimates from USDA ERS of production costs and returns offer an opportunity to increase our understanding of regional variation in the U.S. cow-calf sector.
Taking high-risk cattle to low-risk can be done, and it can be profitable when the calves are priced right.
As we enter this branding season, producers may be asking some questions.
By keeping detailed records, producers can know how to best manage their costs in a market where they don’t set the prices.
One of our best tools for increasing beef production is steroid implants. They’re also one of the most misunderstood technologies by consumers.
Key performance indicators, also known as KPIs, can assist beef producers in measuring factors crucial to an operation.
Replacement heifer selection can affect the profitability of your herd for years to come.
Cow calf producers with fall-calving cows have options as to the optimum date to wean the calves.
There are a few different options for portable fencing systems; the most typical are polywire or a polywire braid. According to our sources, it is best to always stick with a polywire braid since weaved material conducts electricity better, and it is more resilient to pressure.
Whether you’re looking for a permanent fencing solution or want something portable for your grazing system, there are many cost and management benefits to utilizing electric fence.
Whether you’re looking for a permanent fencing solution or want something portable for your grazing system, there are many cost and management benefits to utilizing electric fence.
The No. 1 failure in the installment of an electric fence system is not properly grounding the energizer. “If you want to get the most out of your charger, then you must install a grounding system—and install it right,” Steve Freeman says.
Cattle futures have taken another turn over the past two weeks as prices have drifted lower, correcting the big December 17-24 advance.
As you make plans for this year, decide now to schedule time that will be spent working on the business in the year ahead.
One of the downfall’s to mud is the increase in energy requirement for cattle to navigate the terrain.
There is never a bad time to update your marketing plan.
A friend called the other day and asked suspiciously what I thought about the confined-cow idea. He feared it could set up a pathway for true vertical integration in the beef industry.
Now that calves are weaned and pregnancy checks are occurring, it’s time cattle producers begin thinking about selecting replacement heifers to breed in the spring, explained Taylor Grussing, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist.
When feed costs are too high, consider selling the higher-maintenance cows.
Calf Crop Percentage may be the most important production calculation that a cow/calf producer can record.
The way to maximize calf weight is knowing and controlling direct and overhead costs incurred up to weaning.
Beef cow-calf producers have worked hard since that 60 to 90 pound calf hit the ground in the late winter-early spring calving season.
As fall is rapidly approaching, ranchers are taking the necessary steps to prepare for weaning.
Price and market uncertainties pose a significant risk to cattle producers.
Early weaning is a management strategy that can alleviate grazing pressure on pastures.