Spring is in full bloom around the U.S., and it doesn’t come a moment too soon for the country’s beef producers. A recent Progressive Cattleman poll asked online readers how the winter of 2014 hit their neck of the woods, and the responses showed that cold, ice and snow took its toll.

Maybe it was the appealing price on sale. Perhaps it was the perception of “organic antioxidant” food being healthier for me. Or could it have been the nice picture of robust and juicy Oregon berries on the package?

I appreciate your publication and the insights it provides on various aspects of the cattle industry.

There’s a lot being made about plans to import fresh, frozen and chilled beef from Brazil into the U.S. Much of the commentary on this subject is long on conjecture and speculation and short on facts.

In today’s cattle market, more and more producers are recognizing the importance of following the guidelines set forth by the national Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program.

Congratulations! All your employee positions are filled and you are back to full staff at your business (whether it is a farm, ranch or feedlot).

Beta-agonists have been in the headlines of popular national newspapers and agricultural publications since August 2013, when Tyson Foods Inc. suspended purchases of cattle fed Zilmax.

Recent rains in the Southwest, especially in California, have been generally welcomed by the agricultural sectors – despite flooding and mudslides – but have not been sufficient to break the region’s drought.

Animal welfare issues and concerns about humane handling of livestock have led to some new certifications for animal products.

Today’s consumers are more critical than ever in deciding what food items to buy. They are looking for assurance that the meat they purchase is safe and does not contain harmful substances.