Setting up a reliable record-keeping system is one of the first stages of becoming a good ranch manager. Accurate recordkeeping has numerous benefits, like helping an operator develop realistic forecasts for the next year and improving relationships between accountants, lenders and commodity brokers. 

While it is necessary for operators to monitor the number of cows, calves, stockers, fed cattle, etc. on hand, finding a good inventory software program can be challenging.

Learn the advantages and disadvantages of the QuickBooks platforms to help you decide which version best fits your business.

Are you better off selling your calves at weaning, as stockers or carrying them through the feedlot? Is it more profitable to retain heifers or purchase cows when replenishing the herd?

While agriculture extension has and continues to provide solid financial resources to teach farmers "in-house" accounting and finances, with growth, a farm or ranch must determine if and when to seek outside help.

In this episode, Editor Carrie Veselka discusses budgeting tips and financial habits for the new year with DeDe Jones from Texas A&M University. Also, Carrie, David Cooper, Cassidy Woolsey, and Paul and Tyrell Marchant preview the December issue of Progressive Cattle and duke out the best and worst Christmas songs of all time.