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Haul the Feed or the Cows

Reduction in pasture forage availability may require producers to decide between hauling feed or hauling cows. Learn how to decide which option is best for your operation.

Winter Cow Supplementation and Cold Stress

Extreme winter weather makes it challenging to meet a cow’s nutrient requirements. With below-normal temperatures come challenges of ensuring adequate nutrition and protection for livestock, including being prepared to provide additional feed and shelter.

Supplementing Cows on Crop Residue

During winter, it is a common practice to have cows graze crop residue. This helps reduce the amount of forage needed to maintain a cow for part of the year, while reducing annual feed costs. However, cows may eventually need supplementation when grazing crop residues.

Updated Guidelines for Monitoring Colostrum Consumption and Antibody Transfer in Calves

Dairy and beef producers have long understood the importance of colostrum for the short- and long-term health of their calves. Calf health experts have determined the minimum level of serum protein to categorize a calf as having received sufficient colostrum.

SDSU Extension Opens Registration for 2020-2021 Calf Value Discovery Program

October 14, 2020

SDSU Extension Opens Registration for 2020-2021 Calf Value Discovery Program

Plan Now to Control Weeds With Grazing Next Season

Livestock will graze Canada goldenrod, Canada thistle and perennial sow thistle. At certain times of the year, these plants have crude protein, total digestible nutrients, and invitro dry matter digestibility concentrations similar to alfalfa and other common forages.

Hot Days Ahead and the Need for Water

Hot summer days are still ahead, and we need to account for water. The amount of water a cow requires varies depending on a variety of factors, including environmental temperature, lactation status and weight.

April 2021 Climate Update

As we look at March in the rear-view mirror, we look ahead to April and the potential for rain to return to South Dakota to reduce drought concerns across the state.

Options for Spring Turnout

Every year at green-up, grass managers must make decisions about when and where to begin grazing. Several options are available depending on pasture resources, stored feed resources and the ability to be flexible.