Although there are many skills and tasks required to successfully get beef cattle to market, special attention must be paid to the days just prior to slaughter.

For beef producers, any number of uncontrollable factors can make financial sustainability an elusive goal. Some ranchers are capturing more dollars by marketing beef directly to the consumer.

Many beef producers use a bull to make sure calves are hitting the ground. However, artificial insemination is a viable option for farmers and ranchers.

In recent years, black vultures have been expanding their range northward. Common in the southeastern U.S., black vultures now range at least as far north as Pennsylvania and southern New England. 

Johne’s disease is often thought of as a dairy problem. In fact, beef producers also need to be vigilant to prevent the spread of this destructive, chronic disease.

In winter, wind can be the most serious threat to the health and comfort of cattle. Although snowstorms often come to mind first when preparing for winter, being prepared to protect cattle from wind should be the priority as temperatures drop and days shorten.

Successful beef producers are constantly looking for ways to keep their cattle happy, healthy and well fed, while making sure to not break the bank. One way to ensure long-term profitability is to keep feed costs down.

With drought conditions common in many parts of the country in recent years, cattle producers often find themselves scrambling for forage. One underutilized forage, tree hay, is gaining traction as an emergency feed for ranchers trying to feed cattle economically.

Successful beef producers maximize available pasture. Planting annual forages is a time-tested way to increase yield per acre for a grazing herd of cattle.

Dogs have been helping humans take care of livestock for thousands of years. Although dogs often perform the essential task of protecting livestock from predators, they have also developed the specialized skills necessary for herding – putting the cattle where they need to be. Several breeds have developed strong instincts related to herding.