January exports of U.S. beef were well above year-ago levels, though they took a step back from the totals recorded in the previous month, according to statistics compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

Ranch Management University, a four-day program targeting novice landowners, is scheduled April 12-15 at Texas A&M University in College Station.

The latest research and educational information on ticks and how they affect cattle and wildlife production will be presented at a two-day conference March 23-24 at the Embassy Suites in Laredo, Texas.

Corbitt Wall's feeder cattle report for March 4

USDA concluded its Agricultural Outlook Forum last week. Feed grain and oilseed projections suggest little relief from high feed prices. For 2011 corn, soybean, and wheat plantings are projected at 92.0, 78.0, and 57.0 million acres, respectively.

On Feb. 28, 2011, the Wisconsin Livestock Identification Consortium recorded the state’s millionth Radio Frequency Identification Number (RFID), a milestone in Wisconsin animal identification. RFID, also known as electronic ID, is an ear tag that has a unique number which can be read both visibly and electronically.

As feed prices continue to sky rocket at record rates, beef producers are tasked with generating top quality meat while remaining mindful of their bottom line. This challenge, among many others facing the industry, will be addressed at Alltech’s 27th International Animal Health and Nutrition Symposium.

According to a recent study performed at Padova University on beef cattle, organic selenium supplementation (Alkosel3000 from Lallemand) can improve meat processing quality and organoleptic qualities, when compared to mineral selenium. The trial showed that organic selenium, not only enhanced the animal anti-oxidant status, but also improved meat tenderness and visual aspect, in line with consumer expectations, and reduced drip loss for the processor. This is an excellent illustration of the ‘farm-to-fork’ benefits of a natural feed additive and additional proof of organic selenium’s superior bioavailability.

A new tool that can help South Dakota beef producers address challenges in reproduction management is available online. And it’s free.