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Optimizing Meetings on the Farm
No one wants to have a meeting for the sake of having one. So, when you decide to have a meeting with your employees, keep a few of the following suggestions in mind.
The Suckling Effect
As soon as the calf hits the ground, the reproductive clock of the cow starts to tick. In order to maintain the annual production cycle of the cowherd, cows and heifers must overcome postpartum anestrus within 83 days of calving.
Farm to (More Than) School
Opportunities for local food procurement go beyond just school lunch! Learn about several child nutrition programs and settings that may accept local foods.
Show Pig Season
Show pig season is a culmination of dedication, passion, and hard work, and the process of raising pigs to show involves a delicate balance of proper nutrition, exercise, and grooming.
Preparing for Calving Season
Whether the calving season will start soon or is a few months away, it’s never a bad time to start preparing for the arrival of fresh calves on the ground. Here are some things to consider prior to the beginning of calving.
Reviewing Humane Euthanasia Protocols
Unresolvable health problems and injuries occur in pigs in every swine operation and having a plan in place to humanely deal with these issues is critical. This includes having a written protocol for timely euthanasia.
Producing Safe Food Means On-Farm Antimicrobial Stewardship
Antibiotic stewardship and residue prevention programs can help establish trusting relationships with end users by ensuring safe, wholesome meat or dairy products on your farm.
Feeding for the Future: Maternal Protein Intake
Maternal nutrition is extremely important, not only to the cow, but also to its unborn calf, which relies solely on its mother for nutrition. Learn some expert tips for getting your cows and their calves off to a great start.
USDA Remote Grading Pilot Program: Increasing Marketing Options at Small Plants
The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service recently launched a pilot program for Remote USDA Beef Carcass Grading, allowing qualifying processors to electronically submit photos of carcasses to be presented for grading.
Agronomic Considerations for Moisture Deficit Conditions
The current soil moisture stress in South Dakota could be more pronounced than we have seen in last few years. If this continues, cropping decisions may need to be adjusted for the upcoming growing season.