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Beef Herd Health and Quality Assurance

All Beef Herd Health and Quality Assurance Content

A group of brown cattle foraging in a green field.

Prussic Acid Poisoning

As the first frost date approaches, producers often have concerns about the risk of prussic acid poisoning in livestock. Certain forage plants, especially sorghums and related species are associated with an increased risk of death loss because of prussic acid poisoning.

Rancher moving a group of beef calves.

Preparing for the Fall Run

Having a plan in place for weaning and marketing will reduce stress for both your operation and your calves when the grazing season comes to an end and movement of calves begins.

Producer observing a group of cattle in a holding pen.

Receiving Management Matters

There are multiple factors that influence cattle help during transportation and receiving. Proper management during these events can avoid negative implications to health and performance.

A small herd of cattle gathered around a pond on an open range.

Livestock Water Testing

SDSU Extension offers on-site livestock water testing services at 33 locations across the state. 

Three brown yearlings eating from a feeding trough.

Animal Science Research and Extension Report

Research report from Animal Science Department covering a variety of areas in livestock production.

Barn and farmyard with severe structural damage from a windstorm.

Tetanus: A Storm Aftermath Problem for Animals

Of all the challenges faced by animal caretakers in the wake of damaging storms, Tetanus is a potentially serious disease that might not appear for days or weeks later. Learn some expert tips for recognizing, treating and preventing it.

Ranchers meeting with USDA agents in a farmyard.

A Disaster-Ready Strategy for Cattle Operations

Cattle producers can minimize risk and maximize resilience. Having a written emergency action plan and routine exercise of the plan helps ensure animal welfare and business continuity.

Mixed beef cattle in a holding pen.

SDSU Extension Beef Team Members Receive Training for the Secure Beef Supply Plan

The Secure Beef Supply Plan provides cattle producers and industry partners with the resources needed for business continuity in case foot and mouth disease infects the United States livestock industry.

cows and calves separated by a fence

Low-Stress Weaning

Low-stress weaning methods, such as fenceline weaning and two-step weaning, can reduce calf stress and potentially improve health and performance.

A cattle trailer.

Livestock Emergency Response Planning (LERP)

The scene of an accident is not the place to build your team!