With markets demanding ever more proof of beef’s environmental sustainability, taking relatively simple steps such as improving your herd’s genetics or mineral supplementation can pay big dividends. 

Managing your reproduction program is complex, with many moving parts, but your herd management software can simplify the process. Just as a GPS helps you reach your destination without unnecessary detours, utilizing your herd management software to its fullest potential enables you to achieve your goals without costly missteps or delays.

Reproductive efficiency is a key driver of profitability in a cow-calf operation, since females that don’t conceive still consume resources without producing a return. Several factors influence pregnancy outcomes, including animal health, nutrition, stress and adherence to estrus synchronization protocols.

With respect to cattle inventories and price levels for both cattle and beef, the cattle industry is experiencing unprecedented times. Certainly, there have been swings both upward and downward in the feeder calf market, but prices have generally been historically high the past couple years, with the same expectations for 2025 and 2026. 

A cow’s plane of health and nutrition can have a lasting and profound impact on her offspring throughout their lives, too.

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.

Most rural landowners could raise beef on their properties by slapping together a fence, building a shelter, gathering feed requirements and ensuring a constant water supply – if that was all it took. These isolated actions will never on their own drive positive results.

Following a simple philosophy of structure and dedication, Swisslane Farms' reproductive team can balance Double Ovsynch, embryo transfer and beef-on-dairy with the goal to make as much milk as possible.

When working to maximize fertility in cattle, cows are often the focus. However, bull fertility is a crucial consideration for any beef operation.

Early summer generally provides the highest-quality forage of the production cycle. Producers frequently assume most nutrient requirements are met, yet many nutritional and metabolic details are overlooked.