Should that temperamental cow get a second chance? Should beef producers consider more intensive management for older cows?

June 6, 2014

1 Min Read
Rethink Cow Culling Priorities

Management decisions relating to culling stock cows have increased dramatically in complexity under current market conditions, says Jim Krantz, a South Dakota State University cow/calf specialist.

Subscribe now to Cow-Calf Weekly to get the latest industry research and information in your inbox every Friday!

According to Krantz, low national cattle inventories indicate potential for continued profitability in the cow/calf sector for several years to come, but the figures may also alter many historic recommendations on culling cows.

When reviewing the factors that influence culling decisions, about 80% of cows are culled because they are open, age or teeth concerns, or simply unproductive, Krantz says. The remaining 20% leave the herd because they produced small calves, had dispositions problems, were injured, or had udder problems and, in some cases, eye concerns.

Should that temperamental cow get a second chance? Should beef producers consider more intensive management for older cows?

For more cow culling tips, click here.

 

You Might Also Like:

A Ranch Profitability Secret More Powerful Than Genetics

Readers Share 15 Annoying Ranch Nuisances; Add Yours Now!

In The Market For A 4-Wheeler? Here are 15 To Consider 

Great News! Retail Meat Prices Continue To Set New Records

Subscribe to Our Newsletters
BEEF Magazine is the source for beef production, management and market news.

You May Also Like