Originally written by Grady Ruble, former SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist.
Excel decision aid to assist producers decide whether to raise or purchase replacement heifers.
Replacement Heifer Calculator
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Calves From Other Sources
A few longer-run trends continue to dominate the supply-side story of cattle in South Dakota. Beef cow numbers continue to decline. The number of feeder cattle outside of feedlots has remained stable.
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Feeder cattle basis levels observed during 2025 specific to South Dakota locations were higher than expected throughout 2025 and sharply higher in November and December, perhaps reflecting a tight supply of feeder cattle nationally.
Animal Nutrition Program’s Feed Management Committee: Feed to Gain Calculator - Fat Inclusion
Adding fat to cattle diets is a common strategy to increase dietary energy density. Learn how to make informed feed decisions using a feed-to-gain breakeven calculator developed by the National Animal Nutrition Program Feed Management Committee.