A new tool for ranchers could be a game-changer when preconditioning calves.

Fall is officially here, and that means it is time to pull your stockers off pasture. But before you load them up for sale, there are a few practices to consider that will improve the health and profitability of your calves.

All along the marketing chain of beef cattle, shrinkage of beef calves is a concern. Both sellers and buyers are constantly seeking information on shrink and weighing conditions of calves, feeder cattle and fats.

Growing up, there were several days that brought anxiety to the ranch: branding and sale day were probably the biggest. While there were a million things that could impact the success of branding day (mainly rain and having enough help), when it came to sale day, the entire family knew the importance of what was riding on that single day.