Understanding the Importance of Your Herd’s Energy Reserves

Adele Harty, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist This represents an update of an article originally written by Kalyn Waters, former SDSU Extension Cow-Calf Field Specialist. The energy reserves of a herd are a direct correlation to nutrient supply and balance. Feed prices account for greater than 60% of South Dakota producers’ annual operating expense, so it becomes critical for producers to understand how to evaluate and manage the energy reserves of a beef…

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Raising Freezer Beef: Meeting Customer Expectations

Amanda Blair Professor & SDSU Extension Meat Science Specialist A trend that has become more prominent in recent years is for ranchers to finish a few animals and sell beef direct to the consumer. Consumers have a desire to know where their beef comes from, value the story and are seeking ranchers to purchase beef from. At the same time, ranchers have been seeking opportunities to add value to their cattle and reduce…

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