By Jason M. Warner, Ph.D., Extension Cow-Calf Specialist
Cow Herd Management
- Target BCS at calving for spring‐calving cows:
- 5 for mature cows
- 6 for young females
- Be ready to start your post‐calving nutrition program for spring‐calving cows.
- Evaluate fall‐calving cows for BCS:
- Adjust nutrition program as needed relative to weaning date
- If conditions allow, keep grazing crop residues and dormant pastures but be prepared to move cattle or provide supplemental feed.
- Increase energy content 1% for every degree F below the lower critical temperature (LCT).
- Put down bedding, remove snow, ensure cattle have access to wind protection.
- Supply adequate water volume and space in freezing conditions.
- Don’t forget about your herd bulls!
- Bulls need to be in a BCS ≥ 5.0 prior to the next season of use
- Keep young and mature bulls separate if possible and provide plenty of space to prevent injury
- Spread sufficient fresh bedding to help avoid testicular frostbite
Calf Management
- Do you have a plan for weaning and marketing fall‐born calves?
- Evaluate your feed resources and cost of gain relative to the value of gain
- Talk to prospective buyers in advance of selling
- Evaluate calf health protocols, both spring‐ and fall‐born calves.
- Monitor growth and pubertal development of replacement heifers.
General Management
- For spring‐calving herds this calving season:
- How are you going to record your calving data?
- What information are you going to record?
- Take inventory of supplies and clean equipment prior to spring calving.
- If making bull selection decisions:
- Review your herd performance relative to your marketing and genetic goals.
- Study EPDs impacting your marketing and genetic goals and do your homework well before sale day.