As we progress into the summer months, many producers will lease pasture as a common management practice. Dry conditions in most of the West may force others to start evaluating different grazing options.

Below-normal moisture and above-normal temperatures have been the spring weather pattern in most of the West. Variability in precipitation and subsequent variation in forage production is a huge challenge to manage.

Selection emphasis on calving ease and birthweight has helped minimize labor inputs during calving season. Unfortunately, some ranchers have also experienced reduced vigor and health from smaller calves.

Calving season, perhaps the most important time of year, is upon us. Being prepared with a solid plan will improve our chances for success. In the West, cold weather, low-quality forage conditions and changing cow nutrient requirements can make calving season difficult.

The new year signifies the perfect time to start thinking about ways to reduce costs associated with our spring-calving herds. In grazing operations, supplementation is necessary to meet production goals (i.e., biological and economic). However, feeding cows represents the largest expense for most cow-calf operations.

The end of the year means it might be a good time to review and perhaps update the employee management plan. Effective employee management is as important to the success of a ranch as understanding markets and production strategies.

Colder weather means it is time to start thinking about supplementation strategies for spring-calving herds. The change in forage availability and quality may require an energy or protein supplement to meet cow nutrient requirements.

Fall is here, which means weaning time is upon us. Weaning can be stressful for both calves and producers. The actual weaning period offers some unique challenges that can lead to poor calf performance and negatively affect calf value.

Summer is quickly fading into fall, which means weaning time is just around the corner. Weaning is stressful on calves. Prolonged stress can lead to poor performance and have a negative impact on the immune system, making calves more susceptible to disease.

As the grazing season progresses, cattle use of riparian areas will increase due to more appealing grazing conditions (i.e., forage quality and quantity). Overgrazing riparian areas during the summer (hot temperatures and lack of moisture) can have detrimental impacts on forage.