Livestock
2011 Cattle Cycle Book
Having a good working knowledge of the cattle cycle is one of the keys for economic success in the livestock business. This is true whether one is in a cow-calf operation, a forage grazing operation,...
Using Value of Gain To Determine Calf Affordability
The price of calves finished 2010 on a strong note, and these increased prices have changed the value of gain. The value of gain is what the market pays for an additional pound of weight gained.
Planning Your Winter Feeding Program for Profitability
How would you like to save $15 per cow on your winter feeding bill? What if I told you it could easily be done by making one timely change in what you are feeding your cows grazing on native grass pasture?
Common Mistakes in Growing Alfalfa
With high protein prices, many people are thinking about growing alfalfa, some for the first time ever. While alfalfa can be very profitable, there are some common mistakes that can take you from profitability to loss quickly.
Monitor and Manage Heat Stress
Heat stress can greatly impact cattle producers through decreased milk production and subsequent calf growth, decreased reproductive performance in cows and bulls, and decreased stocker and feeder performance. It has been estimated that heat-related events in the Midwest have cost the cattle industry over $75 million in the past 10 years.
Take Care of Your Heifers and They Will Take Care of You
About the end of every year, beef producers have sold the last calf crop and have a few weeks or months of relative calm before calving season starts. It is easy to become complacent about the cow herd and the replacement heifers, but if you don't take care of them now, they will not be able to take care of you in the future.
Livestock Water Guidelines
Water is one of the most important nutrients for livestock. It is vital for many metabolic processes essential for life, growth and reproduction.
Brush Control without Spraying Leaves
Some people want to control brush, but don't have a sprayer, have too much brush to use a sprayer or just want to do selective brush control. There are several options, each with advantages and disadvantages.
Goats and Weed Control
With costs on the rise, many landowners are seeking less expensive alternatives to mechanical or chemical weed control in pastures. One natural method to achieve this goal is to stock goats to consume unwanted brush and weeds.
Alfalfa Is 'Almost Permanent' Pasture
In recent years, grazing-type alfalfa varieties have been released, providing opportunities to livestock operations as a low-input, high-return forage, if managed properly; stands typically could last three to five years with good management.