Ranch culture - Articles - Page 10

Spring into safety this planting season

Farming is a dangerous occupation. Take this time to refresh your memory with ways to stay safe as the busy season starts to pick up.

March 7, 2024

Jana Davidson

The agriculture industry in the U.S. continues to remain the most dangerous, with farming ranking among the most hazardous occupations.

Evaluating cattle-handling facilities: Steps to prevent problems during processing

Producers can create a more efficient and less stressful work environment for both cattle and handlers by taking the time to evaluate and prepare their facilities before processing.

February 9, 2024

Olivia Sip

When running cattle through chutes and corrals for vaccination and loadouts, it is important to make sure facilities and systems are working properly to avoid injury and unnecessary stress for the cattle and their handlers.

Across the Fence: A cowboy’s love

A rancher’s salute to Valentine’s Day

January 25, 2024

Marci Whitehurst

My cowboy and I have been married for 26 years. As I think of the Valentine’s Days we’ve experienced over the years, it’s clear that just like other things in life, there are phases. And there are probably more phases to come.

Across the Fence: Cowboys and spreadsheets

November 20, 2023

Marci Whitehurst

When some folks think about the cowboy life or ranch life, they think of being horseback 24/7. In fact, there are a fair number of cowboys I’ve met in the last few years who only want to be horseback. One tool we’ve grown to love and appreciate perhaps more than any in all our learning is a solid spreadsheet.

'Yes, you can' moments

October 23, 2023

Carrie Veselka

If you were brought up in the ag industry, there have likely been several “yes, you can” moments from trusted mentors along the way. If you are bringing someone along to follow in your footsteps and take their place in the agricultural community, there is a high probability you’ve had a “yes, you can” opportunity.

Working during the holidays

Holidays can be a difficult time to manage employees. However, working with them gives you the opportunity to show you value them by balancing the needs of the farm and the employee.

October 6, 2023

Bob Milligan

As you know, farming businesses cannot completely stop for holidays. You and your employees, however, are members of families and social groups that have holiday expectations, traditions and plans.

[Podcast] What will the cattle industry look like in 40 years? – with David Anderson and Rick Machen

August 29, 2023

Progressive Cattle Editor Carrie Veselka visits with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Ag Economist David Anderson and Rick Machen with the King Ranch Institute for Ranch Management at the 2023 Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course.

Irons in the Fire: Do your best, but be your best self

August 21, 2023

Paul Marchant

I was not happy as I followed my 10-year-old daughter from the show ring back to the barns. Between me and her and the halter in her hand, lumbered the stout, gentle tank of a 4-H steer that I figured was likely the best show steer we’d probably ever raise on our place.

3 tips for writing an effective job description

The ranching industry struggles to find qualified employees due to declining interest in agriculture and higher wages in other sectors. Effective recruitment and support for skilled workers provide a competitive edge.

August 16, 2023

Ross Bronson

Higher wages being paid across the country create a disadvantage for an industry that already fights to keep margins at a profitable point. Those who do a good job recruiting and taking care of qualified employees will have the upper hand.