MANAGEMENT

Current drought conditions are prompting cattle producers to consider options for reducing stocking rates on rangeland and pasture as we look forward to this spring and summer. There are three main options to reduce stocking rates: supplement/substitute feed, ship cattle to non-drought areas or sell cattle.

There are times when the next generation of the family business finds themselves in situations where they need the elder generation to make crucial decisions, plan more clearly for the future and take more deliberate leadership actions.

It’s often said that agriculture and the livestock industry are slow to change. This may be partially true, but they are transforming themselves, nonetheless.

Do you know you will not live forever? You may live all your days on the ranch, but the ranch will hopefully outlive you.

Getting started in the cattle business is extremely capital-intensive, but alternatives such as custom grazing, running stocker cattle, leasing land or even cattle can be viable options.

One of the largest budget items for ranch families is health insurance costs. We have heard of several ranchers in Nebraska paying over $40,000 in health insurance premiums.