Periodic culls from the herd will result in sales prior to aging considerations. These animals may still be viable as breeders and should bring appropriate prices. This process is known as backgrounding. Immediate placement in feedlots is a possibility dependent on feed costs. Grazing on grass results in slow growth but is good to balance with wheat grazing so moves from field to field are common.
Weight gains are slow in smaller animals and increase with size.
The capacity of pasture changes with region. Winter wheat pasture is available for grazing during early November. By February, March 10 at latest, the cattle must be moved off to allow finishing and harvesting of wheat crop. Larger animals will finish out more quickly at a lower cost. The feedlot will provide standard feed, custom feed mixtures on request, health monitoring and treatment, and act as sales agent for certain fees.