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Precautions for Grazing Weevil-Infested Alfalfa
Alfalfa weevil populations are high this year, creating challenges for producers. Questions have arisen on how to get some value out of the forage by grazing it rather than putting it up for hay.
Mineral Consumption: It Matters!
Cattle mineral nutrition is complex and often confusing, but one strategy to help ranchers better evaluate their mineral program is to monitor mineral consumption.
Bigger Cattle. Warmer Weather. What Can Go Wrong?
The disruptions in the beef processing sector caused by COVID-19 continue to interfere with the orderly marketing of finished cattle. While we all hope that the situation is resolved quickly, the reality is that because the shipment of so many harvest-ready cattle has been delayed, there will be increased numbers of heavier cattle on feed for the foreseeable future.
Importance of Proper Forage Sampling
As dairymen and livestock caretakers, we are trying to optimize the performance of our livestock, whether it is producing milk or meat. Without knowing the quality of the feedstuff or forage we are feeding, it becomes difficult to balance a ration to ensure the animal is receiving the proper amounts of needed nutrients.
Summer 2020 Climate & Drought Outlook
August 26, 2020
With alternating cool and warm weather patterns throughout the last few months and the summer season ahead, temperature continues to be a challenge for climate forecasters in South Dakota.
Feed & Water Testing Laboratories
A partial listing of available feed testing laboratories.
Lessons From Alternative Calving Workshops
Recently, the South Dakota Grassland Coalition and SDSU Extension held workshops across the State focused on sharing information from experienced livestock producers who have switched to a calving date more in sync with nature.
Protein Nutrition and Replacement Heifer Development
With summer coming to an end and weaning for this year’s calves right around the corner, it is not premature for producers to start thinking about next year’s replacement heifers that will be needed to replace any culled or open cows.
Capitalizing on Cow Costs
Feeding cows is one area of consideration when analyzing the cost of keeping a cow through her production year. Through small management choices, we can decrease the cost of the cow while maximizing on opportunities.
Considerations for Grazing Standing Corn
Grazing standing corn is a viable option to supply nutrients to livestock. However, mitigating risk is critical to ensure healthy animals and optimize crops.