There are also stocker / backgrounder operations that specialize in feeding weaned feeder cattle to a certain point before selling to feedlot operators. Feedlot operations feed those offspring to market weight and sell them to be processed into retail beef. Cow-calf operations manage breeding herds to produce new offspring every year. What sector of the beef industry is the best fit for you? The beef industry can be broadly divided into cow-calf production and feedlot production. Budgeting effectively can help to identify areas of potential improvement.Ĥ. Production costs can vary tremendously farm to farm and income can vary significantly depending on numerous production and market variables. Many land grant university extension programs have farm management specialists and online budgeting tools that can help you with this process. What would a budget look like for your cattle operation? Working through an itemized enterprise budget can help you identify all the potential costs and potential incomes. to find the educational resources that you need.ģ. Work with veterinarians, nutritionists, experienced producers, extension specialists, etc.
What is your knowledge level? How comfortable are you with animal health, nutrition, reproduction, well-being, etc.? For beginner producers there are many quality educational programs available. Fencing and shelter would be big upfront facility expenses.Ģ.
Perhaps you have some of the items already that you are using in other farming enterprises. Many of these items can be purchased used at farm sales. In terms of equipment, think about trailers, feeders, waterers, chutes, calving pens, wagons, etc. Land availability and feed resources are often limiting factors. that will be required for a beef cattle operation. What are your resources? Think about the land, feed, equipment, facilities, labor, etc. Here are some key considerations for small-scale beef production.ġ. There are many components to successfully raising beef cattle, some of which may take some extra consideration for small-scale production.
Ruminants have the ability to convert forages indigestible to many species into valuable, nutritious beef. As ruminants, beef cattle can utilize a variety of feedstuffs and can graze forages from marginal land that is better suited for grass production versus cash crop production. Livestock enterprises, such as beef cattle production, can diversify farming operations and complement many other farm enterprises. Iowa State University Extension and Outreachīeef cattle production can be a viable option for small farms.
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