The publication you’re holding, or reading online, is almost 10 years old. When we released our first sample issue in 2010, it was dedicated to delivering the best information to cattle-producing readers for the success and sustainability of their ranch and livestock.

The volatile trade negotiations that have taken place between the U.S. and Mexico over the last few months are leaving the U.S. beef industry on edge and unsure of the future.

I can honestly say inserting myself into a conversation is difficult from time to time. As a fifth-generation cattle rancher from Oklahoma, I don’t take credit for things I don’t earn. I don’t raise havoc when things get tough.

The initial forecast for 2020 commercial beef production is expected to set a record of 27.5 billion pounds, surpassing by almost 1% what is expected to be a record level in 2019. Total cattle slaughter is expected to be lower than 2019, as lower cow slaughter more than offsets higher fed cattle slaughter.

One of my dad’s favorite sayings was, “There’s more than one way to skin a cat.” When it comes to types of calf weaning methods, this phrase could easily be used.

Many cows across the Midwest entered the breeding season in less-than-ideal body condition. Research has shown body condition score (BCS) is directly related to postpartum interval, or the number of days from calving to the subsequent calf conception.

The grazing season on Western rangelands is in full swing, and the presence of flies (i.e., horn, face and stable) on cattle can have negative impacts on health and performance. Summer represents peak fly populations, and for much of the West, moisture has been good, which intensifies this management challenge.

I often hear people say they want a higher phosphorus (P) level in their mineral to help with reproduction. Before feeding a higher phosphorus mineral, it is important to take a look back at research on phosphorus supplementation and what exactly was observed in those studies.

Producers face challenges in recruiting and retaining stockpeople. There are two job openings for each applicant, and much of the agricultural workforce is composed of immigrants. Immigration reform is making it difficult to generate a sustainable agricultural workforce, even as the U.S. demand for foreign labor has increased fivefold in the past 13 years.