Dead or sick calves are a scenario that is reported every year in a number of beef herds in the northern Plains. “A list of all possible causes for this case can be very confusing to producers,” says Gerald Stokka, North Dakota State University Extension veterinarian and livestock stewardship specialist. “However, depressed, feverish calves with
Summer pneumonia in calves a concern
The younger animals are susceptible as the ‘passive immunity’ from their mother’s colostrum begins to fade
Keep your cow herd productive during drought
Recent precipitation might help, but the region remains in a dry cycle so far this season
Much of the northern plains has been in a long-term drought trend for the past several years, and already the season has been off to a dry start. While producers are familiar with drought, being prepared to develop or modify management plans in anticipation of the many challenges ahead is critical. With breeding season approaching,
Troublesome weeds spread through manure
Weed seeds pass unharmed through the digestive tracts of animals such as cattle and sheep
Using some kinds of manure as fertilizer can lead to the spread of noxious and troublesome weeds. “It is a known fact that weed seeds pass unharmed through the digestive tracts of ruminant animals (cattle, sheep),” says Mary Keena, livestock environmental management specialist based at North Dakota State University’s Carrington Research Extension Center. “This means that whatever weed seeds
Rye most often-grown cover crop
A new extension publication addresses questions about rye as a cover crop
Cover crops are becoming increasingly important as a component of sustainable agriculture production. “Properly managed cover crops can reduce soil losses from wind and water erosion, reduce nitrogen losses, utilize excessive soil moisture, promote biodiversity, suppress weeds, improve soil structure and improve trafficability of fields,” says Hans Kandel, North Dakota State University Extension agronomist. In temperate regions of
Now is the time to plan for 2021 grazing season
Pastures stressed by drought or overgrazing this fall more than likely will experience a delay in grazing readiness in spring
The region has received several seasons of drier-than-average weather. While some locations did get some relief this year, the effect on pastures is lingering. Ranchers here in North Dakota have reported up to 60 per cent reductions in forage production on pasture, range and hay land due to the drought in 2020, according to North
Sweet clover hay can be toxic
Testing can tell you if mould-related toxins are in your bales
Sweet clover can provide good nutrition to cattle because it is high in protein and energy when not mature. However, sweet clover can become toxic to cattle if fed as hay, North Dakota State University Extension livestock systems specialist Karl Hoppe cautions. Sweet clover is a biennial legume that lives for two years. It is
Pinkeye in cattle can be costly
Producers should take a holistic approach that begins with preventing its spread
Pinkeye, or keratoconjunctivitis, is an infectious disease of cattle that costs producers money in several ways. “These include increased labour, cost of antibiotics, decreased weaning weights and decreased price paid at market for animals with scarred eyes,” says Gerald Stokka, North Dakota State University Extension veterinarian and livestock stewardship specialist. One study shows that calves affected with pinkeye
Consider pregnancy testing beef cattle early
More information can lead to better — and more profitable — management decisions
The breeding season for spring-calving cow herds could run from March through late summer or early fall, depending on the desired time of calving and length of the breeding season. “Regardless of the length of the breeding season, reproductive efficiency is a critical factor in maintaining a profitable ranch operation,” says Janna Block, Extension livestock
Practise cattle and people health management at turnout time
Now is a good time to evaluate vaccination and herd health management protocols
Spring turnout to the pasture is a good time for producers to review their cow-calf health management plans, according to North Dakota State University Extension livestock experts. They note that a number of factors can impact cow-calf health, including slow grass growth and moisture conditions that may delay grazing readiness and result in prolonged feeding.
Make sure rations are adequate for lactating cows
The first 60 to 90 days post-calving are the most nutritionally demanding period in the production cycle, and the expectations for a cow at this time are many
Calving season is in full swing, and the first 60 to 90 days post-calving are the most nutritionally demanding period in the production cycle, according to two North Dakota State University animal scientists. “The expectations for a cow at this time are many,” says Janna Block, livestock systems specialist at the Hettinger Research Extension Center.
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