UNL BeefWatch newsletter - December Issue

In this issue of the newsletter you will find information on these timely topics and more.
 • Milk: The Double-edged Sword of the Beef Cowherd
 • Nebraska BQA: Effective Cattle Handling
 • Backgrounding Calves with Corn Again
 • Worried About Hormones?
 • Forage and Grazing tips
For more information on these and other topics or to view archived newsletters, visit UNL BeefWatch.

Preparing the Cow Herd for Cold Weather

(November 2013) Moisture, high winds, and cold temperatures increase the cow’s energy requirements. The pro-active approach would be to have cows in adequate body condition and provide shelter belts in the winter. If needed, be prepared to feed more energy to the cows. Learn more.

Accurately Comparing and Pricing Feed Options for the Cow Herd

(November 2013) Feed cost account for approximately 40-70% of the annual cow costs involved in producing a weaned calf. When comparing possible feed options for purchase, compare feeds on a price per unit of total digestible nutrients, which is energy, and a price per unit of crude protein. Learn more.

Using the Grazing Records Spreadsheet for Documentation and Planning

(November 2013) Grazing records are an essential component of any range or pastureland management program. These records are used as a tool for planning the future year’s grazing and as input for any grazing lease arrangement or input for participation in government conservation or disaster relief programs. Learn more.

Do Cows Need Protein Supplements on Corn Stalks?

(November 2013) Two factors influence whether or not there is benefit to feeding cows a protein supplement when grazing cornstalks. When determining whether or not the feeding of a protein supplement is needed, consider these two factors: (1)quality and quantity of forage and (2) cow body condition score. Learn more.

Management Considerations When Grazing Turnips with Cattle

(October 2013) Good moisture has boosted growth of summer planted turnips and many are ready to graze. Turnips may be the best grazing option available for late fall and winter. But, like everything else, they can cause problems. Learn more.

Storm-Damaged Corn: Tips for Testing and Feeding

(October 2013) Any time a growing grain-producing plant is damaged, there is a potential for changes in the plant or grain on the plant contaminated with fungus/molds to grow. The most common change in stressed plants is the accumulation of nitrates. A veterinarian discusses how nitrate accumulation and molds and mycotoxins can become problematic when feeding damaged corn and discusses how to best sample and test it. Learn more.

Grazing Corn Stalk Residue

(September 2013) Having cows graze to meet their nutrient needs is less expensive than having to deliver harvested forages to them. Crop residues can be an inexpensive option. Learn more.

Recent Beef Webinar

Using the Feed Cost Cow-Q-Lator Spreadsheet
November 8, 2013
Aaron Berger
Extension Educator
University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Recent Producer Question

(Nov 6, 2013) How much can a producer realistically pay for a bred female to restock after the drought? Are there any tools available to help evaluate this? Learn more.