Saving three more calves in a 30-cow herd is nearly equal to adding an additional 50 pounds of weaning weight to every calf in the herd. Keep birth weight and calving-ease records. These records will help identify the bulls and cows responsible if problems occur. Refer to your records when selecting herd replacements as well as when selecting bulls for breeding yearling heifers. Separate cows that have calved and increase their feed.
Pregnant cows are easier to observe if separated from cows that have calved.
Energy and protein requirements of a lactating cow are well above those of a dry, pregnant cow. Requirements are higher for superior milk producers. If you have said yes to any of these questions, your regional livestock and farm management specialists have a deal for you. These spread sheets help you look at returns and breakeven pricing. The answers are only as good as the data used producers will need to have a good feel for livestock costs, health expense, marketing charges and cost of diet.