Spring turnout is right around the corner, and after a year of drought, it’s no surprise producers are hopeful for a better outlook in 2023. But, even though the grass is literally greener on the other side of the fence, producers need to be aware of some nutritional implications when transitioning to this higher-quality stand.

As the winter is winding down, many producers are getting ready to turn out bulls. Often, the supplement used for the cow herd contains whole cottonseed, and this prompts questions such as, “Can I feed whole cottonseed to my bulls?” and, “Will it make them infertile?” Our answer to this question is always, “Absolutely not, if you stay within the recommended feeding levels."

My friend wasn’t buying it. He had just asked me about the meaning of PCR, and I had flippantly answered, “Polyvinyl chlorinated RedAngus.” I liked my poetic license. He was less than pleased.

Building a strong foundation in the cow herd, heifer development or purebred program starts with genetics but can also be affected by management and nutrition.

For cow-calf producers, it’s impossible to determine which of their heifers will become their most profitable long-term females simply by eyeballing them over the fence.