Reproductive efficiency is a main driver of profitability in beef operations, as an open cow still eats and grazes but doesn’t produce a weaned calf. Herds often focus on genetics, body condition and synchronization, yet trace mineral status is a common, hard‑to‑see limiter of conception, embryo survival and calving season length.

To background or not to background, that seems to be the age-old question. It can be hard to look at the high cattle prices and justify backgrounding your calves instead of sending them to the sale barn after weaning. But everything is relative.

We can categorize automated milking system data into tools for detecting new infections in individual cows and tools for monitoring the herd level of existing infection. The tools will be more valuable if we use them correctly.

For many cattle nutritionists, the line between professional decisions and personal ones does not exist. The same choices made for customers are the ones made at home, often with similar risks and rewards on the line.

Sand is the ideal dairy bedding source, but it is not always feasible for every farm. Recycled manure solids can be a viable alternative for a mix of practical, economic and operational reasons.

Emerging technologies in pheromone application are enhancing the stress management scene in cattle production. Traditionally, stress reduction has been recognized under the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) umbrella of effective stockmanship.

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) officials confirmed Wednesday night the arrival of New World screwworm in a 3-week-old calf in Zavala County of southern Texas, making it the first confirmed case to arrive across the Mexico border.

Hot days and a blazing sun can be just as dangerous for the humans on the farm as it is for the livestock. There are many considerations for people to make while working out in the heat and sun, and they can make a big difference.

When it comes to feeding mineral, producers have ample opportunity to customize a program that fits their unique needs while also being economical. There is a wide variety of minerals on the market, but reading the labels to compare products can be a bit daunting.