When the weather is right and hayfields are mowed, there will be many farmers looking over the fence at pastures as an opportunity to make more bales. While it is important to get hay reserves built back up on your farm, I would caution producers against baling pastures.

While picking out the next herd sire is important, knowing how to adapt and manage a new herd sire is paramount to its success.

Losing a calf can add stress both mentally and financially to your operation. Here are a few considerations to prepare for a successful calving season.

The decision to invest in your operation may be a difficult one this year. Here are a few areas of the farm and ranch to pay special attention to as you evaluate your operation needs and return on your investment.

While getting an accurate count of stored feeds is important, understanding how far the stored feeds will go is necessary.

Beef cattle vaccines can help mitigate health risks. However, success of a vaccine hinges heavily upon proper vaccine handling and administration. Taking the time to review vaccine handling and use can improve animal health and guard investment in vaccines.

The best way to utilize cornstalks is to graze them. Cattle graze selectively. Cattle first eat the remaining corn grain, then husks, then leaves and finally the stalk. 

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.