The grazing season is in full swing, and cattle grazing on Western rangelands can be unevenly distributed due to large pasture size, variation in forage availability and limited access to water. This can lead to poor forage use efficiency, lower animal production and declining range health in overgrazed areas.

The grazing season is finally here, and grazing irrigated land has garnered some renewed interest due to changing market dynamics. The economics of grazing irrigated pasture can be challenging but often more productive than haying.

Breeding season is here, and several factors contribute to the success of an A.I. breeding program. Open cows impact profitability, so producers need to identify low-cost ways to maximize their A.I. pregnancy rates. Improving conception rates usually involves attention to detail, and thus requires some preparation.

Breeding season is right around the corner, and a shorter calving period next year could be the first step toward improved reproductive performance in the long term.

Bull selection is right around the corner and often a tough decision for cattlemen. The herd bull choice made today can significantly impact genetic improvement of the herd and economic returns long term. It is important to select bulls with the desired performance traits allowing the operation to maximize profitability.

Calving season is now upon us and perhaps the most important time period of the year. Being prepared with a concrete plan will improve your chances for success.

Calving season is quickly approaching and, as we should all know, nutritional requirements increase as cows get closer to calving. Cow mineral needs can increase 60 percent during the last trimester – making it a critical time for mineral supplementation.

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

During the fall, many Western ranchers are weaning and checking for open cows. Cull cows will begin to be sorted from the herd, so it’s time to decide the best way to market this valuable set of cows.