This is largely due to the high quality forages available throughout the summer grazing season. Cows calve in better environmental conditions including dry, clean, spacious pastures. There is less dystocia and the calves seem to require less assistance. Reduced death losses result from fewer problems with scours and pneumonia. This does not mean that eliminating the immunization program will be beneficial.
Calves tend to wean easier due to the fact they are accustomed to people and dry feed.
The issue of feed requirements and increased cost is always a point for discussion. Regardless of the season of the year, the required nutrient intake is based on the stage of production for the beef cow. Frequently, the form of supplementation required to meet the nutrient requirement stimulates the increased cost. There is no difference in the feed requirement between a fall calving herd and a spring calving herd. However, availability of feeds and environmental conditions dictate the feed cost.