Ranchers rely on equal parts faith and science to have adequate grass to maintain their cow herd and ensure quality calves for beef. Faith comes through praying for the right growing conditions, while science implements good land and resource management to enhance the soil, grass types, moisture levels and more to get the most grass from each acre for as long as possible.

If I asked 10 different producers, “How good of quality do you think your CRP (Conservation Reserve Program) forage is for grazing?” I would expect that nine would respond with something to the extent of “Not much better than trees.”

In recent years, producers across the Midwest have increasingly turned to sorghum as a flexible forage option. However, careful management is required to avoid maladies such as prussic acid poisoning.

Taking care of the land doesn’t just happen. It takes patience, planning and a willingness to adapt to change as it happens.

For generations, managing beef cattle across the vast and rugged landscapes of the American West has relied on traditional stockmanship and an intimate knowledge of the land. Now, new technologies are available to augment these established practices, offering producers a more detailed, real-time view of their herds.

As grazing season has begun for many, it is time to make sure fences and pastures are still in good condition and ready for turnout.