Content by Warren Rusche

Two black angus cattle exhibiting heat stress symptoms.

Heat Stress in Feedlot Cattle

High temperatures, humidity and low air movement create the perfect storm for heat stress in feedlots. Learn some expert tips for maintaining performance and reducing losses as we approach the hottest months of the year.

Rancher and marketing consultant meeting in a cattle pasture.

Economic Contribution of the South Dakota Beef Industry

From added value to the economy to jobs throughout the state, the widespread impact of the South Dakota beef industry may surprise you. Warren Rusche, Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Feedlot Specialist, examines some highlights from recent economic research.

Feed truck loading up a feedlot feed bunker.

Incorporating Corn Into Beef Cow Rations Can Save Forage and Feed Expenses

For operations with the right facilities and management ability, replacing forage with corn can stretch forage supplies and potentially reduce feed costs.

Producer analyzing and grading a cow.

Live Weight vs. Carcass Weight: Effect on Cost of Gain and Margin

More cattle each year are marketed using carcass weight to determine value, sometimes combined with grid premiums and discounts. Can we use the same assumptions for growth and cost of gain when marketing methods differ?

Group of mixed feedlot cattle resting in straw bedding during winter weather.

Strategic Feedlot Bedding

Providing bedding is one of the time-tested strategies for dealing with winter weather. But how does bedding affect the bottom-line?

Group of beef calves in a pen.

Managing Earlier Weaned Calves

Weaning calves at an earlier-than-normal age is a proven strategy to reduce grass demands by 25% or more during drought conditions. Learn some key management considerations for getting started.

Group of mixed cattle in a hot, dusty feedlot.

SDSU Extension Encourages Producers to Prepare for Extreme Heat Temperatures

August 02, 2022

SDSU Extension provides resources to help livestock producers prepare for extreme temperatures. With temperatures expected to rise into the upper 90s over the next week, it is important for producers to prepare and have proper mitigation strategies in place.

Heat-stressed cow in feedlot.

Heat Stress Forecasting Apps Available

Early summer heat stress in feedlot cattle is often triggered by rapid changes in temperature and humidity before cattle become acclimated to warmer conditions. Learn about some management tools that you can use to protect your herd.

Large groups of mixed cattle in a feedlot.

SDSU Extension Encourages Cattle Feeders to Attend Feedlot Tour July 19-20

In an effort to provide cattle feeders and producers the opportunity to view a variety of cattle feeding facilities and practices, Warren Rusche, SDSU Extension Beef Feedlot Management Specialist, in collaboration with the South Dakota Cattle Feeders Council, an affiliate of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association, have coordinated a feedlot tour July 19-20.

A tall grassy warm season cover crop blend grown in South Dakota.

Using Annual Cover Crops and Forages in Lieu of Row Crops

Although there are many factors to take into consideration, annual forages and cover crops can be an excellent tool to mitigate challenging planting seasons.