You need some basic equipment to get started in contract grazing. A set of scales is essential for determining starting and finishing weights. Processing incoming cattle and treating sick animals are a big part of contract grazing. You need strong perimeter fences and crossfences for rotational grazing to get the most weight gains out of forages.
Cattle require plenty of clean water.
You need ponds, tanks or portable tubs to supply drinking water in grazing areas. These tools last a long time, but they are expensive. Make sure their cost is included in your budget. Calves are so high this fall, producers wonder whether there's any upside to overwintering and selling them as feeders in spring, providing pasture is available. Cattle economists in many states develop budgets showing most likely scenarios.