Unl Beefwatch

Research has shown a combination of two herbicides applied on pasture and rangeland in the fall can have effective control of winter annual grasses on rangeland and pasture. How the products work and principles for application are discussed.

Considerations for care and management of calves born in mid to late summer along with practices that can mitigate common stressors are discussed.

Nebraska Extension Veterinarian Dr.Funk discusses factors that contribute to and common symptoms of summer pneumonia in nursing calves.

The research behind the Cattle Comfort Index is explained and resources producers can use to access the information is discussed.

Dr. David Anderson, market analyst shares his perspective on current prices and some thoughts on price risk management for cattle producers.

Review of the standard estrus synch drugs are discussed as well as frequent questions that are raised related to common problems that can occur. Resources for estrus synch planning are discussed as well.

Valuing a corn crop standing in the field for silage harvest or delivered to the cattle in the bunk and the factors that impact the price based on moisture content and quality are discussed.

University of Nebraska researchers have began exploring the capabilities of virtual fence for grazing management in annual forages and perennial pastures. Their experience, how the tool has worked, and opportunities for application in a producer setting are discussed.

Daniel Mushrush, an early adopter of virtual fence technology shares his experience. What went well, what didn't, and the opportunities this tool provides for his family's ranch.

The cost of gain versus the value of gain is key for the profitablity of creep feeding calves. Keys to consider when evaluating whether or not to creep feed calves are discussed.

CRP acres are often grazed with cattle. Having an estimate of the quality of this forage can help producers know what protein and energy supplementation may be needed to meet animal nutrient needs. Recent data from KSU provides baseline information on protien and energy of forage.

The one participant 401K is a retirement account with unique options for small business owners. The ability to borrow from it and flexibility in funding the account make it an attractive option to consider when times are good on the ranch.

There are numerous options for annuals forages that can be planted mid to late summer for grazing, haying, silage or stock piled winter feed. The class of livestock to be fed and when it is needed will determine what is best to plant.

Research at Montana State University examined the impact of three different sources of trace minerals fed to cows during the last 5 months of gestation on the mineral status of both the cows and the calves that were developing in utero.

Research at Kansas State University of over 600 heifers at 5 locations showed that acclimation to handling through a chute and alley during the estrus synchronization and artificial insemination process resulted in improved conception rates.

Compensatory gain on summer grass is often touted as one of the benefits of a slow growth wintering program for calves. Recent research is challenging the value of compensatory growth when development programs include both a wintering and summering phase prior to marketing.

Limit feeding an energy and protein dense diet to cow-calf pairs is often done use a total mixed ration. However, with a little creativity, there are options that can be used to limit feed cows without having to have a feed wagon.

Drought conditions can trigger the need to feed cow-calf pairs or early weaned calves a ration that typically would not be required. Key things to know in order to meet cattle performance goals are discussed.

Dr. Mary Drewnoski discusses research looking at grazing Sudangrass with both cow-calf pairs and yearlings. Stocking rates, cattle performance and management practices to enhance success are discussed.

Just 5 stable flies on each leg of cattle can have an economic impact. Dave Boxler discusses where stable flies come from, what makes control so challenging and the options available to producers.