Tag: forage production

Soil testing 101: a rancher’s guide to better yields

Soil testing 101: a rancher's guide to better yieldsSoil testing, often overlooked, is a powerful tool in range management. Understanding your soil’s fertility and nutrient composition is critical to informed decision-making. Instead of relying on guesswork, soil testing empowers producers to make targeted fertilizer applications, maximizing their resources and improving forage production.

Soil fertility and health are the bedrock of forage production. By increasing forage production, the need for costly supplements is reduced. This cost-saving potential, coupled with improved soil health, underscores the importance of soil testing for producers, providing a sense of financial security.

Improving pasture health, productivity, and longevity doesn’t have to be daunting. The practical first step is soil testing, a straightforward process that can often be overlooked in the midst of daily tasks. Here are five practical tips to help producers get the most out of their soil tests and make the process more manageable.

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Surprisingly simple ways to reduce cattle feed expenses

Surprisingly simple ways to reduce cattle feed expensesWhile the necessity of feeding supplements in cattle operations is undeniable, it’s not a task that most ranchers relish. As we all know, feed costs can be a significant financial burden, often constituting the most considerable portion of annual expenses. However, by implementing strategies to reduce these costs, such as optimizing forage production and minimizing hay waste, you can save a substantial amount. This not only eases the financial strain but also significantly improves your operation’s overall profitability.

As I said before, the total amount that it can cost you depends on a few things. Such factors include the time of year and the current forage conditions. In a drought situation, feed costs can total 70% of the total yearly expenses.

Reducing feed costs without sacrificing overall production may seem challenging. However, it’s crucial to understand that some producers, known as ‘low-cost producers,’ have mastered this balance. They recognize that productivity is vital to any successful operation, and this understanding is what makes them sustainable and profitable.

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