Creep Feeding Economics: Bring Them Back Out for 2014

Seven-dollar corn made for judicious creep feeder use, but it may be time to bring those creep feeders back out. New research shows the economics of adding pounds to calves through creep-feeding pays off, now that the price of corn is lower.

August 31, 2014

1 Min Read
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Better feed prices and concerns about lower-quality hay for the winter have some cow-calf producers once again thinking about a move back to the creep feeder, says Patrick Wall, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach beef program specialist.

In a recent editorial for the Iowa Beef Center's “Growing Beef” Newsletter entitled, “Creep Feeding Economics in 2014,” Wall makes the case for creep feeding into fall:

"Research suggests cows can come in 20-30 lbs. heavier and in better body condition if her calf has access to creep feed. A little extra flesh may help that cow endure a period of low quality hay or reduce the amount of purchased supplement it takes to get her back in a body condition score (BCS) of 6 prior to calving next spring."

To read more about the economics of creep feeding, click here.

 

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