Consider the lowly fats. Since they are only a small fraction of most rations, they get no respect. We measure them, note them, neglect them and move on.

Feedlot managers should be checking the manure on their boots – it could tell a lot about the health of the cattle.

Winter is close at hand and soon, we will ask the question: “How much supplement will I need?” This is not a question to be treated lightly.

Likely one of the oldest byproduct feeds for livestock, brewers grains are used in all segments of cattle production as a highly digestible protein and energy source.

Feedlots depend on pen riders to move cattle, monitor them for health issues and ease one out of a pen without stressing it or the other cattle. Pen riders can also reduce the stress level in a pen of cattle.

Increasing numbers of fed cattle are marketed using grid-based pricing systems where premiums and discounts are paid based on USDA quality and yield grades.

While the process of identifying bulls that fit your program and going to bull sales can be enjoyable, it must be completed by writing a check – and likely a significant one at that.

This article is the second in a two-part series. Click here to read part-one in the series. In the last issue of Progressive Cattlemen, several issues regarding the use of native warm-season grasses as a forage tool were considered – adaptability, establishment, longevity, drought tolerance and yield.