Getting calves to gain weight most efficiently is the goal of every cow/calf producer. Some producers have found that using a creep system is a way of achieving that goal. Regarding creep systems, there are two options: Creep grazing and creep feeding a concentrate supplement. Both methods have pros and cons, so it would be best for the producer to research what works for them.
Between the two, creep grazing is generally less expensive than creep-feeding grain for apparent reasons. It also requires less labor making it more convenient. It can be challenging to find any information because although creep-feeding has been well studied, not much has been done with creep grazing. Understanding it may require more legwork on the producer’s part.
Creep-grazing pastures can add pounds to a calf’s weaning weight, just like creep-feeding. However, more than just adding weight to calves is needed to make them profitable. To understand this, the producer will need to look at things like feed costs and the market to see if they will be profitable. Here are some things to consider when making this decision.
Destocking is a prevalent practice during a drought. Doing this is rarely easy to do and will still cost you most of the time. However, drought is a common consequence of ranching, so it will still need to be made. It is important to include plans for when droughts occur so producers are always prepared.
Having calves weaned early is often something that occurs during periods of low forage quality. Early weaning typically happens during extremely dry periods, such as what typically happens in many Western states. But what exactly does it mean to wean early?
Weaning time is once again upon us. It is a magical time when everything runs smoothly. Also, absolutely nothing wrong ever….. 
The threat of drought in any year is a real problem for most of the country. Many of us have seen severely less than average rainfall, which has strained our businesses. The most frustrating thing about it is that drought is one of the few things we, humans, have no control over.
Water is an essential part of life. A certain amount is certainly needed for growth, fetal development, lactation, and overall production. But unfortunately, despite its importance, it is something that can be overlooked very easily by producers.
It is weaning time again out on the range. Weaning is the time of year when you, as a rancher, see the fruits of your labor. Labors, such as with your breeding programs. But that does beg the question about success.
Having to feed supplements is sometimes necessary for cattle operations. That being said, it is something other than what most ranchers like to do. Feed costs remain the single most considerable expense for any cattle producer. The amount really depends on different things, but it can easily be half of the total annual expenses.
Hay is a very common sight in every cattle producer’s operation throughout the country. It is used during the winter to provide supplemental nutrition when forages are lacking. However, with the extremely dry conditions we have been having lately, getting hay bales is becoming harder and harder. With this difficulty, producers are looking for ways to make their current supplies last longer.
Maintaining your pasture during the summer can take much work. It can go from adequate moisture to extremely dry in no time. Managers must be on their game to keep their pasture from suffering too much.
