It is difficult to objectively evaluate what we see every day. We have all heard the old saying “can’t see the forest for the trees”. Important decisions such as livestock feed inventory, forage stand replanting, fertility needs, weed control, etc., […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
BROOKINGS, S.D. – Feeding cattle in a drylot rather than range or pasture may be a viable alternative for livestock producers dealing with drought conditions this year, said Warren Rusche, SDSU Extension Beef Feedlot Management Associate. “If drought conditions become […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Johnsongrass, with its tall seed heads and long leaves popping up everywhere along Arkansas highways, pastures and lots, was introduced to the United States in the early 19th century because it seemed like a good idea at […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
Sweet clover shows up naturally in pastures each year. Many folks think of it as just another weed. However, it can become a welcome addition to your grasslands. Sweet clover can be a curse or a blessing. Ignore it in […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
Poor water quality can impact livestock health. Drought conditions can compromise water quality in ponds and dugouts, causing elevated levels of salts, minerals and bacteria. “Because the majority of the state is experiencing some level of drought, we recommend that […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
When it comes to your farm or ranch, nobody knows the operation like you. You know how many acres you’re operating, and you have inventories on all your commodities. Hopefully, you even know what assets and liabilities you have by […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
How to pass along a farming operation is a primary question farmers and ranchers think about from the time they take over from their family or start a new operation with the hope of growing multigenerational farm and ranch lands. […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
As temperatures increase and summer nears, recreational activities on Texas farm and ranch ponds will increase, said Dr. Billy Higginbotham, AgriLife Extension wildlife and fisheries specialist, Overton. The 1 million-plus private impoundments in the state can provide exceptional fishing opportunities, […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
Cattlemen have demonstrated a commitment to the integrity of today’s beef products by implementing sound cattle management practices. Consumers are looking for beef raised in a healthy and safe environment. An appropriate Herd Health Program ensures that all cattle are […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
Being prepared makes changes more tolerable and less stressful. A beef producer needs a set of “liquid cattle” – the group that is easy to round up and sell as weather changes, feed becomes short or the labor force changes. […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
For spring-calving beef herds, the breeding season is currently or soon will be underway. Many decisions have already been made in terms of the genetic makeup of the 2018 calf crop. Natural herd sires or sires to be used through […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
Longevity can be defined many different ways by beef producers. However, I’ll just use the definition – how long a beef cow or bull stays in your herd. They may leave your herd for a variety of reasons but every […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
April is an exciting time of the year for cow-calf producers. The 2017 calf crop is taking shape and breeding season is currently or soon will be underway. We have begun to emerge from the doldrums of winter to the […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
Prescribed fire is an important and effective wildlife habitat management and forestry tool. When used correctly, fire can improve habitat for a variety of wildlife species, forage for cattle, and conditions for oak regeneration among other things. Here are 6 […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
Diversification in today’s specialization world is OK. Previous discussions in this column noted sheep can be stocked on a cattle operation at the rate of one cow, one ewe without a negative impact on grazing. In fact, ecological advantages certainly […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
According to recent data, the number of people moving to Southern Great Plains states like Texas is more than 1,400 per day. Private lands in the U.S. are undergoing significant changes. For example, more than 1 acre of farmland is […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
Cattle Herd Management Stop feeding hay and supplements as soon as adequate grass allows Work replacement heifers, cows and calves Cows—dewormer, and external parasite control If fly tags are used, alternate between organophosphate and pyrethroid types each year Cull dry […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
Sheep’s biological needs fit very well with cattle. Research has shown multispecies grazing may improve revenue flow, but the pace of agriculture oftentimes inhibits producer pondering. The challenge is that alternative production scenarios exist, but time must be set aside […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
In accounting, real depreciation is an attempt to relate the change in value of an asset as it ages and/or declines in usefulness. For example, when you buy a car and drive off the dealer’s lot, it loses on average […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…
Fencing costs are one of the most expensive aspects of livestock grazing. The type of fence constructed greatly impacts the cost per foot, total cost, and annual ownership cost. In addition, the shape of the paddocks affects the amount of […] ↓ Read the rest of this entry…