Global turmoil is reshaping fertilizer supplies just as spring fieldwork ramps up.

Property owners – especially those who operate a commercial enterprise – can be confronted with neighbors who view those commercial activities as infringing on the rights and privileges of the latter’s property enjoyment. This is certainly true for agricultural operations that can create byproducts others may find objectionable.

Growing evidence suggests that events occurring during the previous lactation may also influence reproductive success in the subsequent lactation.

Genetics provide a strong foundation for positioning herds to benefit from evolving milk pricing structures. While fat and protein have both shown gains of the past 30 years, the growing gap between them highlights the need for greater emphasis on protein in selection and breeding decisions.

Feeding cattle used to be a pen-and-paper business. Now, more producers are relying on cloud-based software to streamline operations, but hesitation remains, especially if internet access is limited.

Reproductive technologies such as estrus synchronization, artificial insemination and embryo transfer have significantly improved genetic progress in beef cattle. Yet, one major biological limitation continues to constrain reproductive efficiency across operations: early embryonic mortality.

One tool for managing these fluctuations and improving returns in all years is the use of value-added programs. While these programs have become increasingly popular due to the promise of higher premiums for “program” cattle, participation costs vary greatly, leaving some producers to ask if it’s really worth enrolling.