Heifer selection is important because of the long-term impacts it can have on an operation. 

The initial cost of implementing the appropriate heat abatement in barns and on pasture may be intimidating, but keeping all cattle, including heifers, cool can provide a good return on your investment as it makes them more comfortable, thereby making the negative effects of heat stress less severe, and setting them up for success for their future lactations.

Weaker milk prices and tighter milk margins have curtailed escalating national average cow prices.

We’re fully into spring season by the month of May, and many operations are kicking out bulls or possibly preparing to artificially breed their herds, specifically potential replacement heifers.

While still historically low, February 2023 exports of most U.S. hay products rebounded slightly from January.

As breeding season approaches, it is worth reminding that timely supplementation to first-calf heifers may be warranted. 

Running through the heart of the north-central U.S. and bordering three of the nation’s 24 major dairy states, Interstate 29 (I-29) is a strong vein from which to measure the pulse of the industry.