Reproduction

I think we can all agree that an open first-calf heifer is a costly “uh-oh” for our bottom line. Getting that heifer to calve the first time by her second birthday can be tough and expensive. After that, it would seem the hard work is done, but not so fast.

Breeders who choose to use in vitro fertilization (IVF) technology create the opportunity to obtain more offspring from valuable females in their herd.

Managing for reproductive success actually begins prior to calving. Effective planning for reproductive health and limiting the impact of anestrus will ensure producers are setting their cows up for the breeding season.

Did you know there is a difference between economics and finance? If you are not familiar with the distinction, here it is in simple terms: Economics is about whether we should do something, and finance is about whether we can do something.

Pregnancy loss is frustrating. We have waited a whole season for the cow or heifer to calve – only to find that she doesn’t calve or loses the calf near calving time.

Every year, large amounts of money are invested in bulls grabbing a producer’s fancy, and buyers wager on them to increase production and profit in their herds.