Justin Waggoner, PhD, shares how muddy conditions change how cattle gain: 4 to 8 inches of mud reduces gain by approximately 14 percent 12 to 24 inches of mud reduces gain by approximately 25 percent He calculates that for every four days cattle have to slog through hock-deep mud, producers will need to add another day and 20 pounds of dry matter feed to reach finish … [Read more...]
Hay quality benefits from protection, proper storage practices
NOTE: This article is a conversation starter at coffee shops or restaurants where producers meet routinely. It is good leave-behind information and makes good content for social media and newsletters. Stewardship of harvested forage is as important as producing it in the first place.” This year’s hay supplies are down six percent year over year <Link> making taking care … [Read more...]
USDA withdraws RFID requirement
Recent executive orders have highlighted the need for transparency and communication before placing new requirements on American farmers and ranchers. USDA-APHIS will not implement the requirement regarding types of identification devices that must be applied to cattle. We continue to believe that RFID devices will provide the cattle industry with the best protection against … [Read more...]