Fall calving has its advantages for calf survivability, marketing and reducing calving stress. However, the challenges of fall and winter breeding require some adjustments to management to ensure success. 

Young cows in the cow-calf operation are the genetic future of the herd and represent a large economic investment. Unfortunately, young cows leave the herd at a higher rate than other age categories.

Calves raised on the range are often lighter at weaning compared to calves raised on irrigated pastures. With the right management through backgrounding and finishing, range calves can catch up with their counterparts.

Fall calving continues to increase in the U.S. Approximately 30% of the herds in the U.S. are calving in the fall. Depending on where you are in the country, calving could start in late August, mid-October or anywhere in between.

Increasingly, beef producers are re-examining the timing of their calving seasons.