Recent research from multiple labs suggests some of the most expensive stressors cows experience are the ones we don’t see.

Many feedbunk management factors should be regularly evaluated by farm managers and consultants. The goal is to provide adequate amounts of a uniform ration that all cows can access whenever they access the feedbunk.

Calving is around the corner, and many producers are looking to relocate the cow herd to the location best suited for their calving season needs. A few regions and operations can trail cattle between summer, winter and calving pastures, but many rely on fuel and wheels to get them where they need to be.

When a lack of rainfall negatively affects the pastures that producers rely on, moving cow-calf herds into drylot settings tops the list of management options. While this change is a multifaceted challenge, it also brings some surprising benefits.

The journey from pasture to plate is fraught with challenges, particularly during the initial receiving period when cattle are most vulnerable. The receiving phase, typically encompassing the first 45 days after cattle arrive at a feedlot, is critical for ensuring their health, well-being and subsequent productivity.

I know we have all been there: The trucks are loaded and headed to the local sale barn with this year’s calf crop. We waited all year to sit and watch these fancy calves fill the ring and circle around. All our blood, sweat and prayers that went into getting to this beautiful fall day will soon be worth it. Ring full after ring full, we sit and begin picturing the large paycheck we’ll be handing the bank later that afternoon. 

There are three areas where consistency is necessary to optimize feed management: inventory, mixing of the total mixed ration (TMR) and the feedbunk.

Monoslope barns are common in the Upper Midwest and particularly in northwestern Iowa. Initially, they were built to control manure runoff and comply with new environmental regulations.