weather


Connect with
our community:

Follow us on twitterJoin us on Twitter


Quick links:


Share the EXTRA





Bookmark and Share

Vern Frey

Vern Frey

Association Perspective

It is time to rebuild the cow herd — with quality.

As we enter the month of November 2013, we have seen record prices for cattle. The drought that we have had the last few years has reduced our cow numbers to all-time lows, and we have fought high feed prices with records for roughages and grain. In one short year, we have witnessed corn prices go from nearly $8 per bushel (bu.) to less than $4 per bu. With that in mind, we will definitely need to try to increase cow numbers again.

We know that producers will have to try and balance their books by selling enough cattle to compensate for feed costs from the last couple years. This will be difficult because they have fewer head to work with after having to sell down numbers during the extended drought. As we start planning to increase our cow herds through heifer retention, let’s use some tools that the American Angus Association has to offer producers to ensure we purchase the right kind of cattle.

We know the Angus female is as efficient as we can find. Do the research and find straightbred Angus heifers for your cow herd. Ask Angus seedstock producers in your area where you can find those cattle. Use expected progeny differences (EPDs) to find heifers with the traits that you want for your operation.

Whether it be maternal, growth or carcass qualities, you can find the right kind. Prices for these replacement females will be very competitive in the months to come. If you need help, contact the American Angus Association regional manager in your area. He can help you locate some cattle. We know heifer retention is going to happen, but get started on securing your calving-ease bulls early — they will be costing a premium.

Comment on this article.

Editor’s Note: Regional Manager Vern Frey covers Region 8, including the states of Minnesota, North Dakota & South Dakota. Click here to find the regional manager for your state.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 


[Click here to go to the top of the page.]