A Missouri beef cow producer called the University of Missouri Extension this spring when he lost seven of nine calves born to first-calf heifers due to calving difficulties. Eldon Cole, a University of Missouri Extension livestock specialist with more than 40 years of experience, agreed to make a farm visit to help determine the problem.

The drought has eased in places, but it persists in 40 percent of the U.S. and another 10 percent could revert if seasonal rains stay away this summer. That outlook from the USDA Drought Monitor has many ranchers short on grazing or water at a crossroads:

Wisconsin State Senator Fred Risser (D-Madison) is proposing legislation that would require veterinarians to report cases of animal abuse to law enforcement or to a humane officer. Current state law only requires that veterinarians report abuse when an animal is suspected to have been involved in animal fighting.

The term “ranch hand” might conjure images of an old Western movie, but modern ranches are also employers. Management of human resources is as important as management of land and cattle. However, common business practices of employee evaluation and motivation may not fit into the mold of employment on a ranch.

Flint Richards Area Representative – Northwest American Jersey Cattle Association Erda, Utah

Cristián Vergara, Mur, DVM, MS Madison, Wisconsin Technical Service Consultant Genus ABS North America

  Kari OttemanWestminster, ColoradoBreed Improvement Data AnalystAmerican Gelbvieh Association  

Six legendary cattle veterinarians have been nominated for the 2013 Cattle Production Veterinarian Hall of Fame, which celebrates the rich traditions of production veterinary medicine by honoring exceptional individuals who have made lasting contributions to the veterinary profession.