Cull cow weight and price are two of the top factors of profitability in any cow-calf operation. Justin Rhinehart, University of Tennessee Beef Cattle Extension specialist, provides good perspective on the economic importance of open cows in cow-calf operations. Cull timing is presented in detail.
Source: Drovers CattleNetwork, October 4, 2016.
Open cow revenue generally represents between 15 – 30% of the sales receipts from a cow-calf operation. Therefore, optimizing the net return on open cows can have a major impact on the overall profitability of the enterprise.
See also: Weaning calves before auction reduces stress and could increase profits, Drovers CattleNetwork, October 3, 2016.
Stressed calves can shrink 5-15 percent or more when moved straight from pasture to the auction market without weaning, Dr. Jason Banta said. As a result, a 500-pound calf could easily weigh 450 pounds or less by the time it reaches the sale.
INSIGHTS: Keep this information in mind when dealing with cow-calf producers. It can help you be more valuable to the customer. At 15 percent to 30 percent of annual sales receipts, cull or open cows can make a real difference in profit. Consider providing this information to targeted cow-calf producers whose management practices seem below par. Also, weaning calves on farm versus directly onto a trailer means more revenue for minimal effort.