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Beef cow body condition management

Description

Recognizing and managing the fall body condition of beef cows can add value to any operation. Winter feed costs can vary significantly depending on the body condition of the cows in the fall. Cows... More ≫

Description

Recognizing and managing the fall body condition of beef cows can add value to any operation. Winter feed costs can vary significantly depending on the body condition of the cows in the fall. Cows that are fatter in the fall will cost less to feed over winter than thin cows. When the winter feed costs for thin cows are compared to those for fat cows, the significance of body condition becomes clear. One body condition score on a cow going into the winter season can mean an extra cost or a saving of $35-60/cow, depending on feed costs and cow size.

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Value-based marketing of cattle : more than just carcass quality

Description

Beef producers must remain competitive in strong protein markets and knowing the costs of production is essential to being competitive. Value-based marketing (VBM) is a tool that allows beef... More ≫

Description

Beef producers must remain competitive in strong protein markets and knowing the costs of production is essential to being competitive. Value-based marketing (VBM) is a tool that allows beef operations to be paid based on the quality of product being produced, rather than a daily price average. Premiums and discounts vary from one packing plant to another and change depending on the time of year. They can even change on a daily basis. Pricing on the grid does not mean you can discard your marketing skills. You still need to be a knowledgeable, efficient and effective marketer of your cattle. Some substantial rewards and losses may occur with the use of grid-pricing. To reduce your risk, know your cattle before you jump into this game.

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Body condition : implications for managing beef cows

Description

Body condition, or the amount of body fat an animal is carrying, is one management indicator that can be used to predict herd fertility and determine feeding programs. This fact sheet is intended... More ≫

Description

Body condition, or the amount of body fat an animal is carrying, is one management indicator that can be used to predict herd fertility and determine feeding programs. This fact sheet is intended to make producers aware of the condition scoring system, what effects various condition scores will have on herd fertility, and to offer some management strategies regarding feeding and when to condition score to optimize both fertility and economics.

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