UNL BeefWatch September 2014

Nebraska BQA: Compromised Animals

Cattle producers have long recognized the need of proper husbandry and stewardship for the animals entrusted into their care. Good livestock production practices, based on research and sound science, are known to impact the well-being, animal health, and productivity of cattle. Cattlemen work hard Continue reading…

 

Balancing Rations: The Economics of Hay Quality

Hay should be analyzed for nutrient content. Photo courtesy of Troy Walz.The reason we put up hay is to feed livestock. When we feed animals we are not just feeding "feed." We are supplying nutrients needed for the animal to grow, renew body components, form products such as milk and wool, and furnish energy for all of the processes involved. The major nutrients involved Continue reading…

 

Cover Crops, Hail, and Nitrates

Many popular cover crops that also are used as forages can accumulate nitrates, including summer forages like sorghums.  Photo courtesy of Troy Walz.Cover crops are reportedly good for many purposes. They can reduce erosion, fix nitrogen, add organic matter, breakup hardpans, feed soil microbes, control weeds, and improve water infiltration. They might remove excess moisture, keep soils cool, or reduce evaporation. Hopefully, they maintain or Continue reading…

 

Nutritional Concepts for Backgrounding Calves

The nutrient density of the weaned calf diet depends on the size of the calf, the desired rate of gain, and the feedstuffs available. Photo courtesy of Troy Walz.Commodity prices are lower than they have been in quite some time and cattle prices are at a record high. As fall approaches, many cattle producers are considering backgrounding calves rather than selling them at weaning. This may be economically advantageous, but only if the calves remain healthy a Continue reading…

 
Originally published September 1, 2014 - Submit an Item