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NEWS

🌿 Maximizing Grazing Gains This Winter

🌿 Grazing Gains - After five years of fall cover crop grazing, research showed that strip grazing significantly increases carrying capacity and reduces trampling losses, making it worth the extra effort despite slightly decreased individual animal gains. Higher quality forages yield better results.

🔬 Test, Don’t Guess - Accurate hay sampling and testing are essential for understanding feed value and formulating effective rations. Collect representative samples, analyze for moisture, protein, energy, and nitrates to ensure cost-effective nutrition for cattle.

💸 Crunching Costs - After a liquid feed tank burst, Doug Ferguson faced challenges with his supplier and decided to explore other feed options. He found a supplement saving $7 per hundred pounds gained, impacting profit margins significantly. This experience highlighted the importance of cost management and strategic marketing for profitability in cattle operations.

🌎 Efficiency and Adaptability for Sustainability - Mike Coffey from Scotland’s Rural College emphasized the UK's urgent need to reduce methane emissions in beef and dairy cattle during the 2024 BIF Symposium. He highlighted the importance of efficiency and adaptability in farming practices for profitability and environmental sustainability.

🇨🇴 Beef Ban Lifted - Colombia has lifted restrictions on U.S. beef imports that were in place due to H5N1 concerns. U.S. Meat Export Federation leaders praised the decision, highlighting the need to regain market share lost to competitors like Canada.

🌽 Harvest Hopes - In September, 75% of ag economists warned of a looming agricultural recession, but by October, optimism grew due to rising U.S. corn export demand and cattle herd rebuilding prospects, despite concerns about the upcoming election's impact.

RANCHING KNOW-HOW

Ways to Improve Profitability and Productivity for Cattle Producers

Ranchers constantly seek to boost profitability and productivity. After extensive interviews and personal experience, key strategies emerge: understand the relationship between productivity and profit, set clear long-term goals, and prioritize communication. Knowing your numbers is essential for informed decision-making, while automation and delegation can enhance efficiency. Simple, honest assessments of your operation’s status can guide effective goal-setting and drive success in the ranching business.

Estimate Hay Needs For Cattle Herd Now

To sustain your cow herd, calculate hay needs by determining average cow weight and inventory, factoring in feeding duration, waste, and spoilage. Aim to purchase hay by the ton for accuracy, adjusting for cows' nutritional needs based on conditions.

CATTLE COMMUNITY

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