Replacement heifer development and cow depreciation is the largest expense to most cow-calf operations after feed for mature cows. Thus, producers should strive for systems that optimize replacement heifer development costs, timely pregnancies, and cow herd longevity. In the past several decades, po Continue reading…
Beta-agonists are approved feed additives and are deemed safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), where they act to enhance lean muscle gain, increase growth rate, and increase feed efficiency. There are differences between specific beta-agonists, but those approved by the FDA include ra Continue reading…
Nebraska Cattlemen have demonstrated a commitment to the integrity of today’s beef products through implementing sound cattle management practices. Consumers are looking for beef raised in a healthy and safe environment. An appropriate Herd Health Plan/Protocol ensures all cattle are raised with g Continue reading…
The 2013 sugar beet campaign will begin in October. It is a good time to remind western Nebraska producers that beet pulp is an economical energy source for beef cows. Research at the University of Nebraska Panhandle Research and Extension feedlot has demonstrated that gestating beef cows can be mai Continue reading…
The XXIII Range Beef Cow Symposium will be held in Rapid City, SD December 3-5, 2013 at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center. It has been jointly hosted by the Extension Service and Animal Science departments of University of Nebraska, South Dakota State University, Colorado State University, and Univers Continue reading…
High nitrates could be a problem for cattle producers planning to feed or graze annual forages, thus testing for nitrates is recommended. When reading a nitrate analysis report, producers should look at how the nitrate levels are expressed. The method used in expressing nitrates will determine what Continue reading…
As producers strive to reduce feed costs by investigating avenues to increase grazing days, many still have to use harvested forages in their year-round feeding program. Sampling and testing forages for quality can make designing a feeding program easy and economical. Nutrient concentration can var Continue reading…
Nebraska used to limit mortality composting to carcasses weighing less than 600 lbs, but this restriction has been removed from state statute, opening the door to a new carcass disposal option for beef cattle and other large livestock. Although Nebraska has maintained a size restriction on mortality Continue reading…
“I have never eaten such a tough or dry steak,” the man told me. I began to ask him about the cut (it was a steak high in collagen) and how he prepared it (steak seasoning and pepper), and how he cooked it (slapped it on the grill for 20 minutes).
The grocery store called the cut “the Husker Steak” Continue reading…
A new extension publication is available to assist producers in managing their earthen manure storage basins during drought conditions. The publication, available at http://go.unl.edu/j429, includes discussions of problems that may arise when basin levels drop Continue reading…