During the last trimester of pregnancy in beef cows, the fetus grows rapidly, placing increasing nutrient demands on the cow. In addition, cold weather increases the cow’s nutrient requirements. “Body condition plays an important role in successfully wintering beef cows,” says Yuri Montanholi, North Dakota State University Extension beef cattle specialist. “Late weaning, overstocking, late
Body condition vital to calving success
Proper feed, good water and a reasonable space with wind protection will keep a cow content
Steps to stretch limited hay supplies
All options must be closely evaluated while keeping an eye on the bottom line to ensure carrying animals through winter is realistic
Harvest and transport challenges have left many livestock producers facing a shortage of hay. That has some producers worrying they do not have enough forage on hand at this time to meet winter feed needs. “There are numerous strategies that can be used to help stretch limited forage supplies,” said Janna Block, extension livestock systems
What factors influence corn test weight?
Drying can increase the number, but drying at too high temperatures can limit the gain
Poor growing and harvesting conditions this year have producers concerned about the test weight of their corn. “Many factors influence the measured test weight of corn, including the physical characteristics of the kernel such as size, density, shape and surface of the kernel,” says Ken Hellevang, North Dakota State University Extension agricultural engineer. Hybrid differences
Mineral nutrition vital for summer cattle grazing programs
Forage testing offers the potential to improve livestock performance and reduce costs
Proper mineral nutrition is important for optimal cattle reproductive performance, milk production, calf weight gain and a strong immune system, according to Janna Block, North Dakota State University Extension livestock specialist at the Hettinger Research Extension Center. Required minerals for livestock are classified into two general groups: micro- and macro-minerals, based on the quantity required.
Bean trials respond to phosphorus-based starter fertilizer
Seed-placed fertilizer can also cause bean stand reductions in dry, coarse-textured soils or with high fertilizer rates
Phosphorus-based starter fertilizer can increase pinto bean seed yield, North Dakota State University studies have shown. That finding is the result of nearly a decade of NDSU phosphorus-based starter fertilizer trials conducted at the Carrington Research Extension Center. “The published research summary should assist… farmers as they make pinto bean plant nutrition plans for the
Keep an eye out for scours
Reduce the risk of scours and other early-life problems for calves with these tips
Protect your calves from scours, especially during the first days of life. The majority of scours, or diarrhea, cases occur when calves are three and 16 days old. Untreated calves essentially die of shock from a loss of fluids, say production specialists from North Dakota State University. “Calf scours are most often associated with infectious,
Farmers and ranchers must have ways to manage stress
If stress piles up and is left unresolved many problems can result
Piled-up stress can lead farmers and ranchers to develop physical or mental health issues, but they can take steps to reduce stress and create healthy ways to manage it, says a North Dakota State University Extension expert. “Farm and ranch families often experience pressure, conflict and uncertainty, especially during harvesting and planting,” says Sean Brotherson,
Persistent lice in cattle a potent problem
As winter wears on, many cattle producers are faced with a continual lice infestation in their herd
Some producers have treated more than once and still are seeing the effects of lice in their livestock. “We are experiencing lice populations that are apparently much more difficult to control than previously,” says Gerald Stokka, North Dakota State University Extension veterinarian. “We cannot be sure as to the reason for reduced lice control, but
Warmer temperatures mean warmer grain in the bin
Solar heating on the south side of bins means that proper spring grain drying and storage are critical
As outdoor temperatures increase, stored grain requires attention to prevent losses, says Ken Hellevang, North Dakota State University Extension agricultural engineer and grain-drying expert. The stored grain temperature increases in the spring not only due to an increase in outdoor temperatures but also due to solar heat gain on the bin. Solar energy produces more
Winter calving requires diligence
There are risks to both winter calving outdoors and indoor births
Winter calving can lead to health risks for the newborns, North Dakota State University Extension livestock specialists caution. This winter’s heavy snowfall and dangerous wind chills have created calving conditions that are difficult to manage and put the ears, feet and life of newborn calves at risk. However, calving indoors also has its drawbacks. “When
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