Ranching.com is your weekly dose of trending news, seasonal tips, and community content put together by our team of ranchers.

NEWS

🔥 Exports Heat Up

🔥 Exports Heat Up - In April 2024, U.S. pork exports surged to their highest levels since May 2021, totaling 277,910 metric tons valued at $778.8 million, marking increases of 14% and 18% respectively compared to the previous year. Mexico led the growth, supported by strong demand from South Korea, Central America, and other regions. Concurrently, U.S. beef exports also saw gains, reaching 111,580 metric tons valued at $898.7 million, the highest since June 2023. Despite challenges in Asian markets, exports to Mexico and other Western Hemisphere markets contributed to the overall increase in export value.

💪 Herd Rebuilding Hurdles - The cattle and beef sectors are closely monitoring indicators for herd rebuilding efforts amid improving conditions such as reduced drought levels and better pasture conditions across the U.S. Improved hay stocks and lower hay prices further support these efforts. However, despite favorable conditions, the current high percentage of heifers on feed suggests that widespread herd rebuilding has not yet begun. Historically, heifers on feed played a key role in herd expansion, but with current figures indicating no decline in heifer placements, the industry awaits signs of a potential future increase in cattle inventory.

🐂 Failed BSE Options - In cow-calf operations, ensuring bulls are fertile is essential for breeding success. North Dakota State University recommends a breeding soundness exam (BSE) before each season to assess physical health and semen quality. Bulls failing the exam due to injuries or immature sperm may be re-evaluated or sold. Conducting the BSE 30 to 60 days before breeding helps maintain herd fertility and efficiency by identifying and removing sub-fertile sires.

📈 Beef Production Trends - In 2024, beef production totals 10.6 billion pounds, down 2.0% from the previous year following a 4.7% drop in 2023. Cattle slaughter is down 4.5% year over year, but higher carcass weights—up by 21.8 pounds—have moderated production declines. Fed beef production has seen a slight 0.2% increase due to heavier carcasses offsetting lower slaughter rates. In contrast, nonfed beef production has decreased sharply by 12.0%, driven by reduced cow and bull slaughter. Late 2024 may see further declines in fed beef production amid potential herd rebuilding and seasonal trends.

🌾 Cover Crops for Cattle - The USDA Economic Research Service report on "Cover Crops and Livestock Operations" underscores the benefits of integrating cover crops, led by Maria Bowman and researchers from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Despite low current adoption rates, cover crops enhance soil health, provide valuable forage, and boost profitability in dairy and feedlot operations, especially in regions like the U.S. Eastern Uplands and parts of Texas and Louisiana. The report highlights their role in sustainable agriculture and offers insights into management practices and adoption challenges.

🥩 Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner. - Discover the fascinating science behind why the smell of grilled meat makes your mouth water, explained by Dr. Chris Kerth of Texas A&M. With over 12 years of research in meat science, Kerth explores the chemistry of flavor compounds released during cooking, revealing how they affect our sensory experience. From identifying and enhancing desirable aromas to optimizing cooking techniques like grill temperature, Kerth's work aims to perfect the flavor and texture of meat. Delve into the secrets behind achieving that delicious sear and maximizing your culinary enjoyment through a blend of taste, texture, and aroma.

RANCHING KNOW-HOW

Hay Storage Tips

Why does outdoor storage of round bales leads to significant nutrient loss and feeding waste? What are effective methods to minimize these losses? Learn how storing hay in well-ventilated barns can prevent moisture-related risks and ensure optimal feeding efficiency. Gain valuable insights into monitoring bale conditions, optimizing ventilation for maintaining hay quality and reducing costs, as well as key strategies to protect your livestock feed investment effectively.

Timing is Everything for BRD Protection

Discover why nearly 20% of beef cattle require treatment for BRD with Jody Wade's expert insights. From the critical role of colostrum and early vaccinations in building immunity to stress mitigation strategies, Wade outlines a comprehensive approach to safeguarding cattle health. Explore how innovative vaccine protocols enhance immune responses and learn practical tips for managing infections effectively. Wade's expertise from Boehringer Ingelheim offers a roadmap for proactive BRD management, ensuring your herd thrives. Don't miss out on this essential guide to protecting your investment and maximizing production potential.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

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Submit articles, social posts, podcasts, and more to be featured in next week’s newsletter. Submissions should focus on tips, tricks, and industry news related to agriculture, cattle, farming, ranching, and similar topics.

RANCHING AROUND THE WORLD RECAP

🇨🇦 Cattle producers wary of grasslands conservation proposal [Canadian Cattlemen]

🇦🇺 Steer prices stabilise [Meat & Livestock Australia]

🇧🇷 Brazilian Amazon ‘cattle laundering’ taints JBS & Frigol supply chains: Report [Mongabay]

CATTLE COMMUNITY

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QUOTE OF THE WEEK

READER POLL

LAST WEEK’S RESULTS

THOUGHTS FROM VOTERS

Supportive

• “We are already attempting to do this by selective breeding. Ensuring offspring are better quality than the sire and dam, is every seed stock producer. How wonderful we can identify more information to help ensure the next generation of seed stock.”

• “I'm completely interested in CRISPR tech and want to be involved.”

Unsupportive

• “The less controls the better. Let people be free to supply their chosen market. Don’t force everyone to comply with the big beef conglomerates market..”

• “The significant chance for unintended consequences far outweighs any potential benefit.”

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