The starting point for a farm's sustainability road map is hoof health. If a cow isn’t comfortable moving, her ability to eat, produce and stay in the herd longer is compromised. No matter your sustainability goals, strong hoof health supports every step along the way.

Although the importance of a well-developed mineral supplementation program is now well understood, the greatest challenge remains in ensuring that cattle consume it consistently, rather than in formulating the supplement itself.

The success of early weaning hinges on one critical factor: how well calves transition onto a new diet.

It is evident with advances in beef production that for cattle to perform at their greatest potential, it is important that their nutritional demands are met. Optimizing cattle performance depends on meeting the nutritional demands for energy, protein, vitamins and minerals. Minerals are generally divided into two different classes: macrominerals and microminerals, also referred to as trace minerals.

From lush spring growth to dormant winter range, the nutrient value of what a cow grazes can swing dramatically. Yet, the cow’s requirements don’t swing nearly as wildly. That mismatch is where performance is either captured … or lost.

When cattle start rubbing and losing hair in late winter or early spring, lice are often the first suspect. Follow-up checks by producers and veterinarians, however, show the cause is not always that simple.

The foundation of a strong mineral program for your cow herd can pay major dividends, not only for the coming year’s calf crop but for years down the line.

As modern cattle feeding continues to evolve, trace minerals will remain small but mighty players in the story of efficient, sustainable beef production.

A well-balanced mineral and vitamin program is the foundation for healthy, productive and profitable cattle. However, when specific challenges arise, the strategic use of mineral additives can provide targeted solutions.