Called wild, feral, pigs, boars, swine or hogs, these adaptable animals are an invasive species steadily encroaching into more than 35 U.S. states and several Canadian provinces writes Bruce Derksen. Wild pigs cause direct physical damage to pastures, forage fields, fences and crops and like deer are a direct competitor in pasture-based livestock management … [Read more...]
Weaning calves. Art or science?
There are some basic principles and practices that will give calves the best chance at navigating the weaning process, writes Zeb Gray. Whether done abruptly or gradually, he recommends producers define what their goals are beyond just separating cow and calf in the weaning process. He emphasizes the importance of a veterinary relationship considering any new antibiotic … [Read more...]
4 considerations for more efficient, productive farm calls
Veterinarians tell some of the most comical stories about making farm calls when producers have told them they’ll “have everything ready” . . . NOT! Laura Meier, DVM, shares the importance of preparation at the farm and veterinarian level in this reminder article. Communication, preparation and patience are key to helping farm calls run smoothly and quickly . . . there’s … [Read more...]
Managing for the profitable cow
Producers young and old need our help to optimize profitability. Sometimes the decisions seem counterintuitive but productive isn’t always profitable. Taliah Danzinger shares how the use of herd management data insights to monitor cow performance can help keep costs in check and maintain a profitable herd. Source: AgProud, January 25, 2024. Link. It is important to … [Read more...]
Respecting the cow: What does it cost you?
Ensuring comfort and calmness in the parlor can only benefit your bottom line, writes Jason Reid who frequently sees cows being negatively affected by the drive for speed and efficiency in dairy operations. He shares economic pros and cons of working too quickly and focusing on efficiencies that ignore what can put cows in a state of stress. Source: AgProud, January 25, … [Read more...]
Manure Expo featured research-backed innovation
Livestock producers are constantly challenged to improve the way manure is handled to protect land and water resources and maximize its value to farms. More than 900 people attended the North American Manure Expo to learn and discuss modern methods of improving the use and value of livestock waste. What’s really exciting is how quickly manure applicators and farmers are … [Read more...]
2022 National Beef Quality Audit shows increase in quality and efficiency
Findings from the 2022 NBQA indicate producers are working to meet the demand for quality and efficiency while maintaining the need to keep safety a top priority. Conducted every five years, the latest results show that over time, attributes have been added to NBQA standards such as food safety, sustainability, animal welfare and the connection between producers and … [Read more...]