Depending on where you are, fall calving takes place from mid-August to November. About one-quarter of U.S. cow/calf operators have fall calving herds in place because of its multiple benefits.

“One advantage to fall calving is that weather patterns are relatively consistent throughout the season,” says Dr. Scott Westlake, Solvet Technical Services Veterinarian. “There are fewer large temperature swings and calves are likely to be born on clean pastures. The consistency of fall weather improves the odds for a high survivability rate and better overall calf health.”

There’s always hope for disease-free calf crops, but it’s best to plan for an illness or two to hit during the season.

“If you need a veterinarian to come to your place or need a prescription product, you must have an established veterinary client-patient relationship (VCPR) with a veterinarian,” Westlake says. “If you don’t have a VCPR in place, you need to get one and keep it current to be able to get the help and products you need.”

Another advantage to fall calving is that, in general, a cow’s body condition is typically higher than it would be at spring calving. Cows and heifers with higher body condition scores breed earlier and with higher conception rates than those with low body condition scores.

One appealing aspect of fall calving is there is typically an increased market for weaned calves in the spring. Calf prices are typically their highest in March and April, when fall-born calves are most likely to be weaned.

Be aware of fall calving challenges

Fall calving can have disadvantages. If summer heat doesn’t abate on time, calves born when temperatures hover around 100°F will need shade. They’ll also need plenty of clean drinking water.

Forages may be a challenge. Warm-season forages will have dropped in nutritional value, yet the cool-season forages won’t likely have produced enough growth for full-on grazing. Since cows in peak lactation have double the energy requirement of dry pregnant cows, there must be adequate feed and forage to maintain lactating cows through winter. A good diet is critical to keeping cows in good body condition and reaching effective breed-back rates.

“Keep in mind bulls will be working hard during this period and need to be in good body condition before breeding,” says Westlake. “They’ll need supplementation, as will the cows. You can start creep feeding calves when forage starts going dormant.”

“Schedule time with your veterinarian to update your herd health plan. In addition to ensuring you have access to appropriate animal health products; your vet can help you plan and manage your health and nutrition programs.”

If you start out with healthy cows and heifers, add good bulls, ensure cattle health, and feed them well, fall calving will add to your business.