In the southeast U.S., perennial grasses such as tall fescue, bermudagrass and bahiagrass make up a large portion of our annual hay crop.

With historic cow slaughter numbers we have seen over the past year, I think many of us are wondering what the cull cow market will look like this fall. 

Hay testing is always valuable, but it is especially helpful when using crop residues and developing diets to stretch limited hay supplies. Before sending a sample in for analysis, it is always good to visit with a nutritionist to see what labs they recommend and what tests would be most appropriate for the sample being analyzed.

Weaning is arguably the most stressful event in a calf’s life. Stress at weaning can inhibit immune response, trigger health problems and shut off gains. Fortunately, cattle producers who understand stressing events can identify potential stressors and manage for a successful transition at weaning.

Beef cattle require minerals in the diet to support maintenance, growth, lactation and reproduction. Providing mineral supplementation is an important part of the beef nutrition program for maintaining healthy animals.