Cows return to lush, green pastures as we ponder the mating decisions of the upcoming breeding season. The present time is critical for quality nutrition because we are asking for the most from our cows during the annual production cycle.

As exciting as calving season is, it is also riddled with challenges, including death loss. Now that we are nearing the end of calving season, and pasture turnout is around the corner, what are we going to do with the cows without a calf at side? All potential scenarios boil down to two: sell or keep.

Supplementing the cow herd with organic trace minerals improves ovarian activity, increases conception rates and helps cattle breed back sooner. Calves from supplemented cows are also in better health and immune status.

Selecting cattle that match the forage resources and environment of an operation is essential for long-term success. But how can producers identify and select animals that will maintain body condition throughout the grazing season?

Running a successful cow-calf operation requires an almost immeasurable amount of management decisions, ranging from ration ingredients to whether in vitro fertilization (IVF) is in the cards.

Over the years, research has shown that to be productive, each cow needs to be maintained at a certain body condition or within a certain range.

Developing replacement heifers is one of the most expensive and complex management decisions for a cow-calf producer and also has long-term implications for profitability.

Immediate income opportunities incentivize producers to sell their weaned calves, meaning a greater number of heifers are destined for the cattle feeding sector. Collectively, the cow herd hasn’t expanded as quickly as projected, ushering in amazing value for the replacement female.