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Several red angus cattle feeding at a feed bunk.

Raising Freezer Beef: Management Considerations

A trend that has become more prominent in recent years is for ranchers to finish a few animals and sell beef direct to the consumer. Proper feeding and management is key to capturing extra value and in meeting customer expectations.

Left: Black cow with the appropriate amount of fat cover, or finish for market. Right: Red steer that needs more time on feed.

Raising Freezer Beef: When Is the Animal Finished?

Many producers have had their own beef processed for years, and some may have been selling animals to their neighbors on occasion. It's another matter entirely when the objective is satisfying customer expectations, especially if finishing cattle hasn't been a normal part of your operation.

Producer inspecting an inventory of farm-raised, frozen beef in a freezer.

Raising Freezer Beef: Meeting Customer Expectations

A variety of factors may lead consumers to purchase beef directly from a producer. When purchasing freezer beef, most consumers expect an eating experience that would be as good or better than buying beef from retail.

Hereford cow’s face close up.

Hormones in Beef: Myths vs. Facts

Confusion and concern often surround the use of hormones in beef production. It's important to understand that hormones are naturally occurring in cattle, and if they were eliminated completely, the animal could not survive.

Young producer inspecting meat in a locker with a digital tablet.

So, You Want to Build a Meat Processing Facility? Five Initial Steps to Consider

The need for more small meat processing capacity and skilled workers is not a new problem facing rural America. No matter the reason for wanting to build, here are some steps to consider before diving in.

Dairy employee in winter clothing holding a shovel.

Colder Weather Tips for Midwestern Dairy Farm Employees

Cold and snowy winters are a challenge for dairy workers, especially for those immigrants coming from warmer climates. Informing workers of simple cold weather survival tips is beneficial in improving their quality of life, both at home and the workplace.

Dairy employee in winter clothing holding a shovel.

Consejos Básicos Para los Trabajadores de Lecherías de Cómo Afrontar el Invierno del Medio Oeste

Los inviernos fríos y nevados son un desafío para los trabajadores de las granjas lecheras, especialmente para aquellos inmigrantes que provienen de climas más cálidos donde las temperaturas raramente descienden a un solo dígito.

Variety of frozen meats in a freezer labeled with a red, “Not for Sale” stamp.

Meat (Not) For Sale

Before buying meat from local livestock producers, take the time to understand the rules and regulations of local meat processing.

Several bales of hay stacked in a shed.

Planning Forage Needs

Inventorying and planning for hay and other forage feed needs is essential every year, especially when production is uncertain due to drought or excess moisture.

Young woman participating in a video conference at a remote work station.

South Dakota Remote Works Training Resumes in September

October 26, 2021

Established in January of 2021, the program is a collaboration with Utah State University's Rural Online Initiative that provides "specialized remote work training to individuals for success in a rapidly changing economy."