Travis Mulliniks

Travis Mulliniks was previously a range nutritionist and extension specialist with the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.

Associate Professor of Beef Cattle Management / Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences / Oregon State University

Taking a systems approach to cow size

The carrying capacity of a ranch depends largely on the size the cows in its herd. Carefully consider how issues such as forage demand, stocking rate and weaning weight play off each other on your operation.

March 17, 2025

Travis Mulliniks

In the last 75 to 100 years, we have seen cow size go from belt-buckle cattle to hat-brim cattle. Between 1975 and 2005, the average cow weight in the U.S. at slaughter increased from 1,050 to 1,350 pounds. Since 2005, cow size in the U.S. has probably pushed into the 1,400- to 1,500-pound range.

Selecting for and improving cow longevity

Keeping productive cows in your herd as long as possible is a key component of long-term ranch profitability. Here are a few management factors that contribute to your cows’ longevity.

September 10, 2024

Travis Mulliniks

Developing replacement heifers is one of the most expensive and complex management decisions for a cow-calf producer and also has long-term implications for profitability.

Understanding lactation and cow efficiency

Milk production is a big focus in the industry, but selecting for that trait may not always equate directly to cow efficiency.

January 12, 2024

Travis Mulliniks

In the past 20 years, genetic potential of the cow herd and production costs have steadily increased; however, production outputs (pregnancy rates and weaning weights) have been stagnant or declined.

Early postpartum management for reproductive success

February 24, 2022

Travis Mulliniks

As calving season starts heating up in spring-calving herds across the U.S., livestock producers should start planning for the breeding season and managing the postpartum interval, which would be the time frame from calving to the resumption of estrus.

Preparing cows for breeding season during early spring forage

April 23, 2021

Joslyn Beard and Travis Mulliniks

As calving season runs for many spring-calving herds across the U.S., keep in mind that a successful breeding season starts with nutritional management decisions made months ahead of bull turnout.