Sometimes it seems as if beef producers are faced with a million details to attend to in order to make a ranch successful and cattle happy and healthy. Selenium is one of those details.

I have had many conversations with my clients about past emotional conversations and assisting them in preparing for an upcoming conversation they fear may become emotional. This article is to assist you in preparing to succeed as a supervisor in those conversations.

CattleCon 2026 is more than just a convention – it’s where the beef industry meets. Whether you're a seasoned producer, an industry expert or just starting out, this is the one event that you don’t want to miss.

The foundation of a strong mineral program for your cow herd can pay major dividends, not only for the coming year’s calf crop but for years down the line.

In 1940, my great-grandfather, Joe Mendel, started the Mendel family farm, located outside of Doland, South Dakota. What started as a diversified farm with beef, hogs and small grains is today an operation focused on corn, soybeans, wheat and sunflowers, as well as a 1,000-head feedlot and 600-head cow-calf operation.

As modern cattle feeding continues to evolve, trace minerals will remain small but mighty players in the story of efficient, sustainable beef production.

Technology intersects many segments of agriculture with applications extending into animal health for prevention, detection and treatment of illness. Many of the newer tools are aimed at blending data collection, analysis and specialized interventions.