In a way, we can compare the New World screwworm (NWS) outbreak to a hurricane. We've known for a while that the likelihood was pretty high that we would have to deal with it. We still aren't certain exactly how it will impact our operations, but it probably wouldn't be a bad idea to prepare in some ways.

By the time today’s cattle leave the feedyard, they are heavier and have been there longer than ever before. This shift has created new opportunities for efficiency and carcass value. Today, the success of feeding cattle can be largely determined long before the animal ever sees a bunk.

Castration is a management procedure that reduces animal aggression, prevents unwanted breeding and improves meat quality. No matter what method is used, all castration procedures cause pain, as measured by stress responses in the animal. Explore new products that are helping to reduce that pain and increase productivity.

Cattle producers invest a massive amount of time, effort and money in raising the best calves possible. Whether selling at the local auction barn, a value-added sale, from the farm site, to a nearby feedlot or via another method, the results of their long-term investments depend on many factors.

Making a calf crop stand out to buyers is critical for profitability and long-term success, regardless of an operation’s size. While smaller farms may feel disadvantaged by these efforts, they can significantly enhance their calves’ appeal and secure higher prices using simple but often overlooked methods.

My oldest daughter, Cora, is 12 and is a solid cowgirl. She was invited to her first branding a few weeks ago – a rite of passage for any young cowgirl who doesn’t grow up on a ranch.

The calendar never lies. While it may feel like New Year’s celebrations have scarcely fizzled, the calf crop is on the ground, the winter feed supply is dwindling, and patches of green grass are beckoning.

As we move into spring, beef cattle producers are carrying out seasonal management tasks to prepare for grazing season. By now, many have either already begun or are getting ready for branding of calves and spring processing of cows. During the long but enjoyable days of gathering, sorting and processing, it is important to keep a few things in mind.

Many cattle production tasks demand extensive labor and time commitments, resulting in large money investments.