The way calves are managed during the backgrounding phase can greatly influence cattle performance down the road.

Oftentimes, to save time and labor, net wrap or twine is not removed prior to feeding hay to cattle. A South Dakota State University forage-binding survey reported that 54% of producers removed net wrap or twine when feeding bales whole, but only 11% of producers removed it when grinding bales. 

Winter backgrounding systems can vary greatly from backgrounding in a drylot to grazing cornstalks or native range.

Corn and distillers grains are staples in Midwest finishing diets. Understanding how the various types and inclusion levels of these feed resources impact cattle performance and ultimately the bottom line of an operation is important.