Category: Lactation

Following the Calves: A Florida weaning

Date: Jun 05 2015

There’s something about a Ken Griner greeting that makes you feel you’re right where you should be. Friend or stranger, it makes no difference.

No bidders

Date: Mar 09 2015

At his Cattlemen’s College session last month, I heard Mark present a pretty convincing case for preconditioning (a 11-year analysis of Indiana producers showed a profit of more than $80 per head, on average for 60+ day programs, for example).

But it wasn’t just about the economics of it all. It was about the principle.

Marbling matters as weaning time approaches

Date: Aug 13 2014

Marbling in cattle—the taste fat—was long considered the feedlot’s responsibility, until research pointed to opportunities all the way back to the ranch.

From homestretch to home stretch

Date: Aug 13 2014

As we get ready for preweaning shots and deworming, I think these calves are in the homestretch.

A successful separation, part 3

Date: Sep 06 2013

Max Irsik, Extension veterinarian at the University of Florida, says while a solid weaning program probably benefits cow-calf producers more if they’re retaining ownership, it’s the responsible thing to do regardless. “Even if they feel that they are not getting paid for it, it’s the job of the cow-calf producer to prepare those animals for the next stage of production,” he says.

A successful separation, part 2

Date: Sep 04 2013

That’s for you and your vet to decide, but it all comes down to one thing: how you plan to market these calves.

Think about weaning

Date: Apr 30 2013

Is it ever the wrong time to think about weaning calves? I don’t think so–it’s always on my mind.

THE Question, Part II

Date: Oct 04 2012

the marketing element is so important. In our segmented industry it’s often challenging to show a true marketing advantage when comparing a superior set of calves to a more common set on the same day.

Hot, dry, early

Date: Jun 27 2012

Being forced to switch up management is not fun or easy, and it probably doesn’t help to know that you’re not the only one in this hard place.

Knock on wood

Date: Oct 14 2011

In his blog, Steve recaps what is taking place on his own operation and encourages readers to aim for profit, target the brand and keep building tomorrow together.