REDUCING CATTLE STRESS
7/11/19
Good stewardship begins on each beef cattle farm/ranch with care of those animals that have been entrusted to each farmer/rancher. Each beef cattle farmer/rancher must deal with nature (rains and droughts), economic conditions (input cost and markets), social situations (mis-information). Each farmer/rancher manages their beef cattle business to be sustainable. We must be financial successful in order to maintain the farm/ranch and family.
We take pride in the cattle, desiring our cows to be in a healthy condition and their calves healthy and growing. There's nothing more peaceful or enjoyable than a group of cows and calves grazing across that green grass pasture. They are comfortable in their environment and being -- stress free -- they are preforming at their best.
HEAT STRESS-- has been in abundant supply recently as we've endured twelve 90*F days during the previous fourteen days. Cattle are stressed during these 90*F days.
We must provide shade by nature or constructed structures. Nature provides the best shade -- the edge of a grove of trees or trees along fence rows.
Several farmers/ranchers who use rotational grazing have portable shade structures that are moved along with cattle from paddock to paddock.
I observed one farmer who constructed a shade sled on which his mineral feeders and fly control instruments (dust bags, back rubbers, fly flaps) were attached. The shade sled was moved from pasture to pasture as his cattle were rotated. I have also observed permanent shade structures constructed within each pasture. Either can reduce heat stress during our hot summer days. Cattle during these stressful days will graze early morning, possibly before 9 to 10 am, then lay in the shade until late afternoon.
WATER-- is one of the most, if not the most, vital nutrient. If water is in short supply, then protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals can not keep cattle healthy.
Each farmer/rancher understands the importance of a steady, clean water supply for their cattle. During some less stressful days cattle may drink about 1 1/2 gallons of water per 100 pounds of body weight. -- A 1200 pound cow will drink about 18 gallons of water daily. However, during these heat stress days they may drink much more water in attempts to stay hydrated and cooler. Many cattle farm/ranches are providing water sources within each pasture.
SUPPLEMENTS-- these grain feeds are often provided young calves for a period of time before weaning, often referred to as creep feeds. These feeds encourage young calves to eat from a trough, thus reducing their dependence on the cow for nutrition.
However, during drought times we must decide on supplements (hay or grains) for cows to maintain their healthy condition.
PASTURE-- becomes high on farmers/ranchers management list as its most important to providing nutrients for cattle health. Grass should cover as much of the as possible -- close to 90 to 100 percent. Bare ground allows soil temperature to increase, losing soil moisture and organic matter (soil nutrients).
By keeping a taller canopy (4 inches plus) soil temperatures remain cooler and suffer less evaporation, and grass re-growth occurs much quicker.
Weedy pastures limit the amount of grass available for cattle grazing, also less moisture and nutrients for grass growth.
Farmers/ranchers are continually adjusting their cattle stewardship to achieve health and growth from their cattle and care of natural resources.
7/11/19
Good stewardship begins on each beef cattle farm/ranch with care of those animals that have been entrusted to each farmer/rancher. Each beef cattle farmer/rancher must deal with nature (rains and droughts), economic conditions (input cost and markets), social situations (mis-information). Each farmer/rancher manages their beef cattle business to be sustainable. We must be financial successful in order to maintain the farm/ranch and family.
We take pride in the cattle, desiring our cows to be in a healthy condition and their calves healthy and growing. There's nothing more peaceful or enjoyable than a group of cows and calves grazing across that green grass pasture. They are comfortable in their environment and being -- stress free -- they are preforming at their best.
HEAT STRESS-- has been in abundant supply recently as we've endured twelve 90*F days during the previous fourteen days. Cattle are stressed during these 90*F days.
We must provide shade by nature or constructed structures. Nature provides the best shade -- the edge of a grove of trees or trees along fence rows.
Several farmers/ranchers who use rotational grazing have portable shade structures that are moved along with cattle from paddock to paddock.
I observed one farmer who constructed a shade sled on which his mineral feeders and fly control instruments (dust bags, back rubbers, fly flaps) were attached. The shade sled was moved from pasture to pasture as his cattle were rotated. I have also observed permanent shade structures constructed within each pasture. Either can reduce heat stress during our hot summer days. Cattle during these stressful days will graze early morning, possibly before 9 to 10 am, then lay in the shade until late afternoon.
WATER-- is one of the most, if not the most, vital nutrient. If water is in short supply, then protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals can not keep cattle healthy.
Each farmer/rancher understands the importance of a steady, clean water supply for their cattle. During some less stressful days cattle may drink about 1 1/2 gallons of water per 100 pounds of body weight. -- A 1200 pound cow will drink about 18 gallons of water daily. However, during these heat stress days they may drink much more water in attempts to stay hydrated and cooler. Many cattle farm/ranches are providing water sources within each pasture.
SUPPLEMENTS-- these grain feeds are often provided young calves for a period of time before weaning, often referred to as creep feeds. These feeds encourage young calves to eat from a trough, thus reducing their dependence on the cow for nutrition.
However, during drought times we must decide on supplements (hay or grains) for cows to maintain their healthy condition.
PASTURE-- becomes high on farmers/ranchers management list as its most important to providing nutrients for cattle health. Grass should cover as much of the as possible -- close to 90 to 100 percent. Bare ground allows soil temperature to increase, losing soil moisture and organic matter (soil nutrients).
By keeping a taller canopy (4 inches plus) soil temperatures remain cooler and suffer less evaporation, and grass re-growth occurs much quicker.
Weedy pastures limit the amount of grass available for cattle grazing, also less moisture and nutrients for grass growth.
Farmers/ranchers are continually adjusting their cattle stewardship to achieve health and growth from their cattle and care of natural resources.
ANTIBIOTIC RESIDUES FALL
4/12/19
Dairy farmers, veterinarians, and milk processors should celebrate the results of the Food and Drug Administrations ( FDA ) latest round of antibiotic residue testing. During the past year farmers, veterinarians, milk processors have provided the cleanest milk supply since milk drug residue testing results started being tracked.
That latest report indicated a mere 0.01 percent ( 1/100 th of a percent ) bulk milk pickup tankers -- 1 in 9885 -- tested positive for an animal drug residue. Of course, any load found positive has always been rejected for American Families consumption, as it should be.
These rigorous test evaluated five different groups of individual or families of drugs. SAlso, 22 various testing methods analyzed these milk samples for any drugs, which gives further credence to the results. As a drug receiving additional scrutiny as of late, tetracycline accounted for only 6 of the positive test. Thus, indicating the drug has been handled properly on the farm.
This new low point for antibiotic residues also indicates we can do more to eliminate the remaining 364 positive tankers from the 3.6 million samples gathered across the U S A from October 2017 to September 2018. This effort should include a consultation with the dairy herd health veterinarian.
Indeed, there is much to celebrate as we have collectively achieved a new milk quality standard in food safety. However, our ultimate goal should be no drug residues NEVER. We must remember, we are in the dairy business to provide American Families with animals for both milk and meat.
Reference: Hoards Dairyman magazine on January 25, 2019.
Beef Quality AssurANCE
Drink Up -- Milk That Is
Milk From Cow To You
A Dairy Farm Visit
4/12/19
Dairy farmers, veterinarians, and milk processors should celebrate the results of the Food and Drug Administrations ( FDA ) latest round of antibiotic residue testing. During the past year farmers, veterinarians, milk processors have provided the cleanest milk supply since milk drug residue testing results started being tracked.
That latest report indicated a mere 0.01 percent ( 1/100 th of a percent ) bulk milk pickup tankers -- 1 in 9885 -- tested positive for an animal drug residue. Of course, any load found positive has always been rejected for American Families consumption, as it should be.
These rigorous test evaluated five different groups of individual or families of drugs. SAlso, 22 various testing methods analyzed these milk samples for any drugs, which gives further credence to the results. As a drug receiving additional scrutiny as of late, tetracycline accounted for only 6 of the positive test. Thus, indicating the drug has been handled properly on the farm.
This new low point for antibiotic residues also indicates we can do more to eliminate the remaining 364 positive tankers from the 3.6 million samples gathered across the U S A from October 2017 to September 2018. This effort should include a consultation with the dairy herd health veterinarian.
Indeed, there is much to celebrate as we have collectively achieved a new milk quality standard in food safety. However, our ultimate goal should be no drug residues NEVER. We must remember, we are in the dairy business to provide American Families with animals for both milk and meat.
Reference: Hoards Dairyman magazine on January 25, 2019.
Beef Quality AssurANCE
Drink Up -- Milk That Is
Milk From Cow To You
A Dairy Farm Visit
A REALLY GREAT TIME FOR CATTLEMEN
1/29/19
The 2019 Tennessee Cattlemen's Association and Trade Show set new records for the history books. The 2-day event was people (some 1050 +) and vendors (94 +) packed at Embassy Suites in Murfreesboro. Tennessee beef farmers were joined by Tennessee Dairy Producers to see and hear about all that's new in the cattle business -- Ranch and cattle handling equipment; Hay and forage processing and handling equipment; Cattle breeds and breeding; Vaccines and pharmaceuticals relating to cattle; Feeds and supplements; Finance and insurance and the latest technology for cattle management.
The T C A and Embassy Suites staff's were kept busy handling all the necessary facilities for -- meetings/ seminars/ training's/ banquets and events related to the convention.
It's a tiring time, but thoroughly enjoying the opportunity walking through exhibits conversing with vendors and sponsors; Visiting with cattlemen and friends in the cattle community; Chatting with beef and dairy farmers all across Tennessee about whats on their minds and listen to experts about whats shaping up for the coming year -- marketing/ legislative/ regulatory/ outlook and sustainability aspects.
This year had a last-minute addition for the program, Tennessee's Governor Bill Lee was speaking during the Friday afternoon session. He spent time emphasizing the importance and value of agriculture to our states economy. Also, too hear comments from new Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Charlie Hatcher.
It was an enjoyable opportunity to join recognizing those youth, farmers, and businessmen from the cattle community during the awards luncheon and Alltech/ Kubota Youth Awards Banquet:
2018 T C A Awards of Excellence
Dr. Emmit Rawls Outstanding Stocker Producer Award:
BLAKE HOLDER
Dr. Clyde Lane Outstanding Cow-Calf Producer Award:
GREG BUCKNER
Dr. Jim Neel Outstanding Work In Beef Extension Educational Programs Award:
LARRY MITCHELL
Business Person Of The Year:
STEVE MEDLIN
John Bartee Distinguished Service Award:
LAFAYETTE WILLIAMS
Outstanding F F A Beef Program:
ROD BARNES
T C A Legislator of the Year:
Congressman DAVID KUSTOFF
Outstanding Youth Senior Level:
HEATH QUICK, Shelby County
Outstanding Youth Junior Level:
HAYLEE FERGUSON, Rutherford County
2018 T C A Scholarship Winners:
Tennessee Cattlemen's Scholarship:
JULIANN FEAR, Fayetteville,Motlow State; $500
Tennessee CattleWomen's Scholarship:
HANNAH NAVE, Woodbury, U T Martin; $500
Bill Tyrrell Memorial Scholarship:
KENDALL MARTIN, Petersburg, U T Knoxville; $500
Joe Houston Memorial Scholarship:
ALAYNA TURBYFIELD, Elizabethton, U T Martin; $500
2018 Beef Heifer Initiative Scholarship:
Senior: 1st. LENA SIMS, Humphreys County; 2nd JACQUELINE KING, McMinn County
Junior: 1st. MARY CARTER SHIRLEY, White County; 2nd TYLER BURKS, Wilson County
Youth: 1st. ROSE MARY JOHNS, Williamson County; 2nd. JAKE OZBUM, Bedford County.
2018 Top Teir Show Points Winners:
Top Heifer Exhibitor: DYLAN INMAM
Top Steer Exhibitor: MURRAY PERKINS
Top Senior Plus Showman: KAYLA JACKSON
Top Senior Showman: MURRAY PERKINS
Top Junior High Showman: MORGAN RILEY
Top Junior Showman: KABRY TININ
Note: The Top Heifer and Top Steer winners won a Sundown (20 ft) cattle trailer for their use during the 2019 show season.
Other events occurring were: Kids Scavenger Hunt; T C A Youth Ambassador Meeting; 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl; Youth for the Quality Care of Animals training's.
Also, Veterinarian Continuing Education and Tennessee CattleWomen's sessions.
A reception for National Cattlemen's Beef Association president-elect JENNIFER HOUSTON from Sweetwater. Jennifer will be the first N C B A President from Tennessee to lead the national organization.
Following the convention, during the T C A board of directors meeting, Mr. Roger Radel was elected President of T C A for 2019 and 2020. Roger, a commercial cow/calf farmer from Sevier County.
If you were in attendance -- THANK YOU. If you were unable to attend, you surely missed Tennessee's premier cattle event.
Related articles
Junior Livestock Shows
1/29/19
The 2019 Tennessee Cattlemen's Association and Trade Show set new records for the history books. The 2-day event was people (some 1050 +) and vendors (94 +) packed at Embassy Suites in Murfreesboro. Tennessee beef farmers were joined by Tennessee Dairy Producers to see and hear about all that's new in the cattle business -- Ranch and cattle handling equipment; Hay and forage processing and handling equipment; Cattle breeds and breeding; Vaccines and pharmaceuticals relating to cattle; Feeds and supplements; Finance and insurance and the latest technology for cattle management.
The T C A and Embassy Suites staff's were kept busy handling all the necessary facilities for -- meetings/ seminars/ training's/ banquets and events related to the convention.
It's a tiring time, but thoroughly enjoying the opportunity walking through exhibits conversing with vendors and sponsors; Visiting with cattlemen and friends in the cattle community; Chatting with beef and dairy farmers all across Tennessee about whats on their minds and listen to experts about whats shaping up for the coming year -- marketing/ legislative/ regulatory/ outlook and sustainability aspects.
This year had a last-minute addition for the program, Tennessee's Governor Bill Lee was speaking during the Friday afternoon session. He spent time emphasizing the importance and value of agriculture to our states economy. Also, too hear comments from new Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Charlie Hatcher.
It was an enjoyable opportunity to join recognizing those youth, farmers, and businessmen from the cattle community during the awards luncheon and Alltech/ Kubota Youth Awards Banquet:
2018 T C A Awards of Excellence
Dr. Emmit Rawls Outstanding Stocker Producer Award:
BLAKE HOLDER
Dr. Clyde Lane Outstanding Cow-Calf Producer Award:
GREG BUCKNER
Dr. Jim Neel Outstanding Work In Beef Extension Educational Programs Award:
LARRY MITCHELL
Business Person Of The Year:
STEVE MEDLIN
John Bartee Distinguished Service Award:
LAFAYETTE WILLIAMS
Outstanding F F A Beef Program:
ROD BARNES
T C A Legislator of the Year:
Congressman DAVID KUSTOFF
Outstanding Youth Senior Level:
HEATH QUICK, Shelby County
Outstanding Youth Junior Level:
HAYLEE FERGUSON, Rutherford County
2018 T C A Scholarship Winners:
Tennessee Cattlemen's Scholarship:
JULIANN FEAR, Fayetteville,Motlow State; $500
Tennessee CattleWomen's Scholarship:
HANNAH NAVE, Woodbury, U T Martin; $500
Bill Tyrrell Memorial Scholarship:
KENDALL MARTIN, Petersburg, U T Knoxville; $500
Joe Houston Memorial Scholarship:
ALAYNA TURBYFIELD, Elizabethton, U T Martin; $500
2018 Beef Heifer Initiative Scholarship:
Senior: 1st. LENA SIMS, Humphreys County; 2nd JACQUELINE KING, McMinn County
Junior: 1st. MARY CARTER SHIRLEY, White County; 2nd TYLER BURKS, Wilson County
Youth: 1st. ROSE MARY JOHNS, Williamson County; 2nd. JAKE OZBUM, Bedford County.
2018 Top Teir Show Points Winners:
Top Heifer Exhibitor: DYLAN INMAM
Top Steer Exhibitor: MURRAY PERKINS
Top Senior Plus Showman: KAYLA JACKSON
Top Senior Showman: MURRAY PERKINS
Top Junior High Showman: MORGAN RILEY
Top Junior Showman: KABRY TININ
Note: The Top Heifer and Top Steer winners won a Sundown (20 ft) cattle trailer for their use during the 2019 show season.
Other events occurring were: Kids Scavenger Hunt; T C A Youth Ambassador Meeting; 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl; Youth for the Quality Care of Animals training's.
Also, Veterinarian Continuing Education and Tennessee CattleWomen's sessions.
A reception for National Cattlemen's Beef Association president-elect JENNIFER HOUSTON from Sweetwater. Jennifer will be the first N C B A President from Tennessee to lead the national organization.
Following the convention, during the T C A board of directors meeting, Mr. Roger Radel was elected President of T C A for 2019 and 2020. Roger, a commercial cow/calf farmer from Sevier County.
If you were in attendance -- THANK YOU. If you were unable to attend, you surely missed Tennessee's premier cattle event.
Related articles
Junior Livestock Shows
LIVESTOCK PROTECTION
1/22/19
Many area livestock farmers, especially beef cattle, are in the process of having new calves born -- calving season -- during this time of year. These farmers are beginning to develop a plan for immunization or vaccinations for their young animals. The price of one individual animal lost, as the result of a preventable disease or infection, will or can pay for vaccines for the whole herd for a long period of time.
Vaccines can aid in protection of young animals against diseases or infections that are or can be fatal. Even if the disease or infection is not fatal, farmers loose growth from each sick animal, plus the cost of treatment. These diseases or infections may affect animals throughout their lifetime.
These young animals generally receive immunity protection from these diseases through the first milk -- colostrum -- from their mothers. This protection generally last from 2 to 4 months of age. These young animals, during this time, must begin to develop their own immune system for protection against disease or infections.
A immunization or vaccination program should be developed in cooperation with the herd health veterinarian. A program could possibly include: cloistral, respiratory, over-eating, pasteurella, tetanus, pinkeye, somnus, and others. These are just a few diseases and infections and this is why the program should include your herd health veterinarian, who is familiar with diseases or infections common to or developing ones occurring within the area. Also, the type of vaccines -- killed or modified live -- that can aid the animals immune system to develop long lasting immunity against the un-forseen problems.
1/22/19
Many area livestock farmers, especially beef cattle, are in the process of having new calves born -- calving season -- during this time of year. These farmers are beginning to develop a plan for immunization or vaccinations for their young animals. The price of one individual animal lost, as the result of a preventable disease or infection, will or can pay for vaccines for the whole herd for a long period of time.
Vaccines can aid in protection of young animals against diseases or infections that are or can be fatal. Even if the disease or infection is not fatal, farmers loose growth from each sick animal, plus the cost of treatment. These diseases or infections may affect animals throughout their lifetime.
These young animals generally receive immunity protection from these diseases through the first milk -- colostrum -- from their mothers. This protection generally last from 2 to 4 months of age. These young animals, during this time, must begin to develop their own immune system for protection against disease or infections.
A immunization or vaccination program should be developed in cooperation with the herd health veterinarian. A program could possibly include: cloistral, respiratory, over-eating, pasteurella, tetanus, pinkeye, somnus, and others. These are just a few diseases and infections and this is why the program should include your herd health veterinarian, who is familiar with diseases or infections common to or developing ones occurring within the area. Also, the type of vaccines -- killed or modified live -- that can aid the animals immune system to develop long lasting immunity against the un-forseen problems.
ITS DECISION TIME
11/15/19
Calving season is beginning or may have just been completed for many cattle farmers. Now its time to past judgement on how to manage those new calves, especially those bull calves. The point being, to castrate or not to castrate those bull calves.
Its an age old argument -- castrate now or later. One reason for delayed castration or maybe the main reason is that bull calves generally wean at higher weights than steers and have been found to be more feed efficient.
But, what happens later to that delayed castrated bull calf, especially those weighing over 450/ 500 pounds ??? A discounted price during marketing from 4 to 24 cents per pound, check the Tennessee Feeder Cattle Market Reports; Reduced performance -- reduced average daily gains, requiring more days on feed , thus increased cost of gain; Health problems -- increased morbidity due to stress, respiratory and other health issues; Carcass quality -- reduced quality grade ( Prime, Choice, Select ); marbling and tenderness, plus producing more dark cutters; Safety -- bulls are more aggressive and cause more injuries for farmers and damage to facilities.
Its less stressful on these young bull calves to be castrated within a few days of birth, and you can catch the calf before it runs faster than you. Also, the use of a natural implant can improve weight gains equal to bull calves or better. This is also a good time to identify, ear tag, these calves with their mama cow ( more later ).
I was recently ask if I was a cutter or bander for castration. I would prefer surgical castration ( knife ) at a young age. Why ??? Reduced pain and stress, less blood loss and reduced risk of complications. The experience I've witnessed from banding: Someone can't count two; slow healing and increased infections; broken bands. Consult with your herd health veterinarian and remember the Beef Quality Assurance training.
The identification of calves to their mama cow, thus providing the performance evaluation of those cows. Ear Tags colors that provide most effective attention are: 1st black numbers on a yellow background; 2nd green numbers on a white background, possibly one color for steers and one for heifers -- reducing stress during sorting. Also, 1 inch numbers can be read at 30 to 35 feet and 2 inch numbers at 60 to 65 feet. Be familiar with your ear tagger before using as to avoid split ears.
Why is castration and calf health so important, farmers should want to establish a reputation for their cattle. I realize we have some 40,000 farms in Tennessee that have cattle, so what difference can one farmer make ??
These cattle buyers have memories better than any elephant ( a reputation for long term memory) you can image. If they receive a load or group of calves and have a train wreck on health and performance, you can best believe they will remember where those calves originated --- steep discounts or no bids or sales for future calves. Also, the opposite is true should they have good results -- health and performance. They can be repeat customers. Consult your local market manager and herd health veterinarian to work toward establishing a reputation for Tennessee Feeder Cattle.
11/15/19
Calving season is beginning or may have just been completed for many cattle farmers. Now its time to past judgement on how to manage those new calves, especially those bull calves. The point being, to castrate or not to castrate those bull calves.
Its an age old argument -- castrate now or later. One reason for delayed castration or maybe the main reason is that bull calves generally wean at higher weights than steers and have been found to be more feed efficient.
But, what happens later to that delayed castrated bull calf, especially those weighing over 450/ 500 pounds ??? A discounted price during marketing from 4 to 24 cents per pound, check the Tennessee Feeder Cattle Market Reports; Reduced performance -- reduced average daily gains, requiring more days on feed , thus increased cost of gain; Health problems -- increased morbidity due to stress, respiratory and other health issues; Carcass quality -- reduced quality grade ( Prime, Choice, Select ); marbling and tenderness, plus producing more dark cutters; Safety -- bulls are more aggressive and cause more injuries for farmers and damage to facilities.
Its less stressful on these young bull calves to be castrated within a few days of birth, and you can catch the calf before it runs faster than you. Also, the use of a natural implant can improve weight gains equal to bull calves or better. This is also a good time to identify, ear tag, these calves with their mama cow ( more later ).
I was recently ask if I was a cutter or bander for castration. I would prefer surgical castration ( knife ) at a young age. Why ??? Reduced pain and stress, less blood loss and reduced risk of complications. The experience I've witnessed from banding: Someone can't count two; slow healing and increased infections; broken bands. Consult with your herd health veterinarian and remember the Beef Quality Assurance training.
The identification of calves to their mama cow, thus providing the performance evaluation of those cows. Ear Tags colors that provide most effective attention are: 1st black numbers on a yellow background; 2nd green numbers on a white background, possibly one color for steers and one for heifers -- reducing stress during sorting. Also, 1 inch numbers can be read at 30 to 35 feet and 2 inch numbers at 60 to 65 feet. Be familiar with your ear tagger before using as to avoid split ears.
Why is castration and calf health so important, farmers should want to establish a reputation for their cattle. I realize we have some 40,000 farms in Tennessee that have cattle, so what difference can one farmer make ??
These cattle buyers have memories better than any elephant ( a reputation for long term memory) you can image. If they receive a load or group of calves and have a train wreck on health and performance, you can best believe they will remember where those calves originated --- steep discounts or no bids or sales for future calves. Also, the opposite is true should they have good results -- health and performance. They can be repeat customers. Consult your local market manager and herd health veterinarian to work toward establishing a reputation for Tennessee Feeder Cattle.
BORO TO HOST CATTLEMEN'S CONVENTION
1/7/18
Tennessee Cattlemen planning to attend the 2019 Tennessee Cattlemen's Convention and Trade Show January 25-26 in Murfreesboro at Embassy Suites Hotel are in for a variety of experiences. Governor Bill Lee, a cattle farmer from Williamson County, will address the general session as the convention begins.
This years cow college will kick off the event Friday morning, just before the trade show and silent auction opens.
Tennessee cattlemen will have an opportunity to join a new event kicking off Friday at 10:45 am -- The U T Heifer Sale ( the very first of its kind), followed by the U T Senior Bull Test Station Sale. Both these events are a first for the T C A Convention. These events can really make an impact on your cattle business.
This years Cow Colleges, 1 thru 8, will offer several different topics including replacement heifer identification and development; a report from N C B A Executive Director Kendall Frazier; commercial breeding strategies and bull E P D"s; U S DA/ F S A/ P P F programs and opportunities; cattle market outlook presentation; U T sustainability update; prepping calves for the transition to a stocker program. Surely there is something in this line-up for your cattle business.
The Tennessee Cattlemen's Youth Association's "All Tech/ Kubota Awards Banquet" will begin the youth activities 6:30 pm Friday. Awards include: Tn Cattlemen's Youth Association Ambassador; Outstanding Youth Award; Farm Credit of Mid America/ T C A Heifer Initiative Scholarships; to be followed Saturday with Scavenger Hunts; 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl and Quality Care of Animals training sessions.
Tennessee Cattlewomen's Association activities begins at 9:00 am Saturday with speaker Sharon K. Beals, Senior Vice President of Foods Safety and Quality for C T I Foods.
For those interested in taking a break from Cow Colleges and other sessions, be sure to check out the large cattle trade show for the latest and greatest tools for your cattle business. The T C A trade show is not one to be missed.
The finale session will be an official board meeting of officers and directors during which Roger Radel, a Sevier County Commercial cow/calf farmer will assume T C A's presidents gavel from out-going president Steve Anderson.
Per-registration forms for Tennessee Cattlemen's Convention and Trade Show are available in the Tennessee Cattle Business magazine, pages 10-11 of the January 2019 issue, or web-page tncattle.org or just give Rheba a call at 615-896- BEEF (2333).
The T C A Convention is open for all cattlemen and interested livestock individuals.
SEE YA IN THE BORO.
1/7/18
Tennessee Cattlemen planning to attend the 2019 Tennessee Cattlemen's Convention and Trade Show January 25-26 in Murfreesboro at Embassy Suites Hotel are in for a variety of experiences. Governor Bill Lee, a cattle farmer from Williamson County, will address the general session as the convention begins.
This years cow college will kick off the event Friday morning, just before the trade show and silent auction opens.
Tennessee cattlemen will have an opportunity to join a new event kicking off Friday at 10:45 am -- The U T Heifer Sale ( the very first of its kind), followed by the U T Senior Bull Test Station Sale. Both these events are a first for the T C A Convention. These events can really make an impact on your cattle business.
This years Cow Colleges, 1 thru 8, will offer several different topics including replacement heifer identification and development; a report from N C B A Executive Director Kendall Frazier; commercial breeding strategies and bull E P D"s; U S DA/ F S A/ P P F programs and opportunities; cattle market outlook presentation; U T sustainability update; prepping calves for the transition to a stocker program. Surely there is something in this line-up for your cattle business.
The Tennessee Cattlemen's Youth Association's "All Tech/ Kubota Awards Banquet" will begin the youth activities 6:30 pm Friday. Awards include: Tn Cattlemen's Youth Association Ambassador; Outstanding Youth Award; Farm Credit of Mid America/ T C A Heifer Initiative Scholarships; to be followed Saturday with Scavenger Hunts; 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl and Quality Care of Animals training sessions.
Tennessee Cattlewomen's Association activities begins at 9:00 am Saturday with speaker Sharon K. Beals, Senior Vice President of Foods Safety and Quality for C T I Foods.
For those interested in taking a break from Cow Colleges and other sessions, be sure to check out the large cattle trade show for the latest and greatest tools for your cattle business. The T C A trade show is not one to be missed.
The finale session will be an official board meeting of officers and directors during which Roger Radel, a Sevier County Commercial cow/calf farmer will assume T C A's presidents gavel from out-going president Steve Anderson.
Per-registration forms for Tennessee Cattlemen's Convention and Trade Show are available in the Tennessee Cattle Business magazine, pages 10-11 of the January 2019 issue, or web-page tncattle.org or just give Rheba a call at 615-896- BEEF (2333).
The T C A Convention is open for all cattlemen and interested livestock individuals.
SEE YA IN THE BORO.
COLD BRINGS STRESS FOR CATTLE
Before too much winter arrives beef farmers take time to evaluate their feed supply and improve items to reduce stress on their beef cattle.
Cold temperatures, blowing wind, rain, ice or sleet and snow are a few winter weather conditions that have or will occur. These stress items can have a negative affect on cattle health and performance.
During these events cattle often require extra energy/feed to maintain body condition. The more adverse and colder temperatures, the more energy/feed the cattle will require to maintain body condition.
Cattle have a Lower Critical Temperature (L C T), generally around 32*F. That L C T stress requires we provide additional feed resources. Example: If cattle at 1000 to 1100 lbs require 30 lbs of hay to meet their requirements at 32*F and temps falls to 30*F, our cattle will require 2% more hay or .6 lbs/day. Each degree below L C T requires increased hay by 1%.
Their L C T can vary and depends on hide thickness; hair coat thickness; wind speed and moisture. A thin cow, a thin hair coat and wet, the stress/L C T can be greater than 32* F. The "feels like" L C T could be 10* F less. Now the L C T is 22* F or equals 10% more hay or 33 lbs/ day.
Fall calving cows, raising a calf through the winter will require extra supplementation to maintain her body condition.
That 6th nutrient, water is valuable under winter conditions. Frozen or inaccessible water can lead to dehydration, thus causing a decrease in feed intake or eaten. An important way to stay warm is to be well hydrated during colder days, both for farmers and their cattle.
Cattle require a good mineral supplement during winter months, just the same as summer. Its important that we begin a "Hi-Mag" supplement well in advance of pasture green up to avoid 'magnesium toxicity.
There are several things that can be done to help reduce cold stress: Wind breaks reduce exposure to wind; Bedding provides a layer of insulation between the animals body and cold ground; Shelter can protect from rain, snow, ice which improves insulation of their hair coat; Muddy areas are difficult to walk, especially if frozen.
We as beef farmers must keep a daily watch for our cattle's protection. Doing what we can to improve weather conditions.
Before too much winter arrives beef farmers take time to evaluate their feed supply and improve items to reduce stress on their beef cattle.
Cold temperatures, blowing wind, rain, ice or sleet and snow are a few winter weather conditions that have or will occur. These stress items can have a negative affect on cattle health and performance.
During these events cattle often require extra energy/feed to maintain body condition. The more adverse and colder temperatures, the more energy/feed the cattle will require to maintain body condition.
Cattle have a Lower Critical Temperature (L C T), generally around 32*F. That L C T stress requires we provide additional feed resources. Example: If cattle at 1000 to 1100 lbs require 30 lbs of hay to meet their requirements at 32*F and temps falls to 30*F, our cattle will require 2% more hay or .6 lbs/day. Each degree below L C T requires increased hay by 1%.
Their L C T can vary and depends on hide thickness; hair coat thickness; wind speed and moisture. A thin cow, a thin hair coat and wet, the stress/L C T can be greater than 32* F. The "feels like" L C T could be 10* F less. Now the L C T is 22* F or equals 10% more hay or 33 lbs/ day.
Fall calving cows, raising a calf through the winter will require extra supplementation to maintain her body condition.
That 6th nutrient, water is valuable under winter conditions. Frozen or inaccessible water can lead to dehydration, thus causing a decrease in feed intake or eaten. An important way to stay warm is to be well hydrated during colder days, both for farmers and their cattle.
Cattle require a good mineral supplement during winter months, just the same as summer. Its important that we begin a "Hi-Mag" supplement well in advance of pasture green up to avoid 'magnesium toxicity.
There are several things that can be done to help reduce cold stress: Wind breaks reduce exposure to wind; Bedding provides a layer of insulation between the animals body and cold ground; Shelter can protect from rain, snow, ice which improves insulation of their hair coat; Muddy areas are difficult to walk, especially if frozen.
We as beef farmers must keep a daily watch for our cattle's protection. Doing what we can to improve weather conditions.
SEVIER COUNTY LIVESTOCK ASSOCIATION
11/10/18
Another annual meeting of the Sevier County Livestock Association, 11-05-2018, is now history. It was an eventful evening at "The River Place" near Sevierville. The attending members were treated to a buffet of Beef Brisket with all the trimmings.
The evening program kicked off with Dr. Neil Shrick, head of Animal Science Department at University of Tennessee, with comments and illustrations concerning beef production throughout various countries around the world and the influence on United States beef production and beef farmers within Sevier county. Also, the influence of beef processors and American Families upon farmers sustainability and management practices.
The presentation of awards: Businessman of the Year -- Sims Tractor Company; Jonathan Smelcer was Beef Producer of the Year. The Dee Rule award went to Roger Radel, commercial cow/calf farmer and president-elect of Tennessee Cattlemen's Association.
One of the highlights for this year was the recognition of the 2018 recipients of the Sevier County Livestock Association Scholarships. This years winners were: Summer Stanifer and Heather Boshears from Northview Academy; Abigail Forman from Pigeon Forge High School; Jacob Adesso from Gatlinburg Pittman High School. Congratulations to each of these students on receiving a $ 500.oo scholarship to further their education.
John Delozier, president and Ira Crawford, vice president were re-elected as directors. Other directors are Richard Lindsey, secretary, and James King, Kenny Terry, Edward Loveday and John Huff.
11/10/18
Another annual meeting of the Sevier County Livestock Association, 11-05-2018, is now history. It was an eventful evening at "The River Place" near Sevierville. The attending members were treated to a buffet of Beef Brisket with all the trimmings.
The evening program kicked off with Dr. Neil Shrick, head of Animal Science Department at University of Tennessee, with comments and illustrations concerning beef production throughout various countries around the world and the influence on United States beef production and beef farmers within Sevier county. Also, the influence of beef processors and American Families upon farmers sustainability and management practices.
The presentation of awards: Businessman of the Year -- Sims Tractor Company; Jonathan Smelcer was Beef Producer of the Year. The Dee Rule award went to Roger Radel, commercial cow/calf farmer and president-elect of Tennessee Cattlemen's Association.
One of the highlights for this year was the recognition of the 2018 recipients of the Sevier County Livestock Association Scholarships. This years winners were: Summer Stanifer and Heather Boshears from Northview Academy; Abigail Forman from Pigeon Forge High School; Jacob Adesso from Gatlinburg Pittman High School. Congratulations to each of these students on receiving a $ 500.oo scholarship to further their education.
John Delozier, president and Ira Crawford, vice president were re-elected as directors. Other directors are Richard Lindsey, secretary, and James King, Kenny Terry, Edward Loveday and John Huff.
A CATTLEMEN'S OPPORTUNITY
6/6/18
I've had an opportunity to attend many livestock conferences and meetings all across areas of the business. The "Tennessee Valley Livestock Conference" is a real opportunity for area farmers, right in their back door.
Part education, part location, part fellowship for all cattle farmers. The conference is young, as this is its second year and will kick-off June 30th, 7:15am, at "Walters State Expo Center" near White Pine, Tennessee. For folks using GPS to find the site, its on 1615 Pavilion Drive, White Pine, Tn.
The conference will focus on cattle topics: Grazing of Green Grass ( grown by sunshine and rains ); Live cattle demos -- Cattle Grading; Low Stress Handling, and Animal Health. Speakers will focus on challenges and possible solutions of issues within the cattle business. Including updates on the national level by Jennifer Houston, president-elect of National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA ); Valerie Bass, Tennessee Beef Council and Jai Templeton, Tennessee Department of Agriculture will discuss Tennessee issues and concerns.
These items are the meat of the conference, which provides extra time to visit a large trade show with representatives from all parts of the cattle business. OH YEA, plenty of time for fellowship with other cattle farmers who are on the front lines of the cattle business. Its an opportunity to connect with those involved in all parts of the cattle business.
The "Tennessee Valley Livestock Conference" is a worthy event for the entire farm family, who are focused on the cattle business and want to stay ahead of changes. The only thing that's constant is "change." "GET INVOLVED."
Be sure to register before June 20th; registration forms are available from June issue of "Tennessee Cattle Business" magazine; on-line at tncattle.org; call Tennessee Cattlemen's Association office at 615-896-2333. Registration includes a Biscuit Breakfast, Lunch, and Supper at the arena.
See Ya at White Pine.
6/6/18
I've had an opportunity to attend many livestock conferences and meetings all across areas of the business. The "Tennessee Valley Livestock Conference" is a real opportunity for area farmers, right in their back door.
Part education, part location, part fellowship for all cattle farmers. The conference is young, as this is its second year and will kick-off June 30th, 7:15am, at "Walters State Expo Center" near White Pine, Tennessee. For folks using GPS to find the site, its on 1615 Pavilion Drive, White Pine, Tn.
The conference will focus on cattle topics: Grazing of Green Grass ( grown by sunshine and rains ); Live cattle demos -- Cattle Grading; Low Stress Handling, and Animal Health. Speakers will focus on challenges and possible solutions of issues within the cattle business. Including updates on the national level by Jennifer Houston, president-elect of National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA ); Valerie Bass, Tennessee Beef Council and Jai Templeton, Tennessee Department of Agriculture will discuss Tennessee issues and concerns.
These items are the meat of the conference, which provides extra time to visit a large trade show with representatives from all parts of the cattle business. OH YEA, plenty of time for fellowship with other cattle farmers who are on the front lines of the cattle business. Its an opportunity to connect with those involved in all parts of the cattle business.
The "Tennessee Valley Livestock Conference" is a worthy event for the entire farm family, who are focused on the cattle business and want to stay ahead of changes. The only thing that's constant is "change." "GET INVOLVED."
Be sure to register before June 20th; registration forms are available from June issue of "Tennessee Cattle Business" magazine; on-line at tncattle.org; call Tennessee Cattlemen's Association office at 615-896-2333. Registration includes a Biscuit Breakfast, Lunch, and Supper at the arena.
See Ya at White Pine.
TENNESSEE VALLEY LIVESTOCK CONFERENCE
5/29/18
The "Amazing Grazing Coordinator" kicks off Tennessee Valley Livestock Conference followed by new technology and equipment for your beef business, and live animal demos on June 30th at Walters State Expo Center in White Pine, Tn.
The gates open for the event at 7:15 am with a Co-op "Biscuit Breakfast" with coffee on the side and registration. The first session at 8:15 am features "The Amazing Grazing Coordinator," Johnny Rogers of North Carolina State Extension.
A live cattle grading demo and discussions by Jodie Inman and Mack Moss, from U.S.D.A. and Tennessee Department of Agriculture will precede a sponsored lunch at the arena.
In addition to the educational sessions the conference will provide a large trade show for Tennessee Valley Beef farmers, cow/calf and backgrounders/grazers. Trade show visiting times will occur throughout the days activities.
Other conference topics will focus on "Low Stress Cattle Handling," and "Animal Health Demos." "National Cattlemen's Issues" will be discussed by Jennifer Houston from Sweetwater President-elect of National Cattlemen's Beef Association. "Tennessee Programs" will be highlighted by Valerie Bass from Tennessee Beef Industry Council and Commissioner of Tennessee Agriculture Jai Templeton. The conference concludes with supper, 5:00 pm at the arena.
Farmers and other interested livestock people may pre-register for the conference for $25.oo per person until June 20th. Late registration and on-site registration will be $35.oo per person. Registration forms are included in Tennessee Cattle Business magazine and at www.tncattle.org
The program will be inside, so rain or shine its full steam ahead for all Beef Farmers. The conference is a great opportunity to learn and visit with beef community leaders and fellow beef farmers. Hope to see ya at Tennessee Valley Livestock Conference at 1615 Pavilion Drive White Pine, Tn.
Lets trust mother nature to provide sunshine and moisture to raise much green grass for our beef cattle.
5/29/18
The "Amazing Grazing Coordinator" kicks off Tennessee Valley Livestock Conference followed by new technology and equipment for your beef business, and live animal demos on June 30th at Walters State Expo Center in White Pine, Tn.
The gates open for the event at 7:15 am with a Co-op "Biscuit Breakfast" with coffee on the side and registration. The first session at 8:15 am features "The Amazing Grazing Coordinator," Johnny Rogers of North Carolina State Extension.
A live cattle grading demo and discussions by Jodie Inman and Mack Moss, from U.S.D.A. and Tennessee Department of Agriculture will precede a sponsored lunch at the arena.
In addition to the educational sessions the conference will provide a large trade show for Tennessee Valley Beef farmers, cow/calf and backgrounders/grazers. Trade show visiting times will occur throughout the days activities.
Other conference topics will focus on "Low Stress Cattle Handling," and "Animal Health Demos." "National Cattlemen's Issues" will be discussed by Jennifer Houston from Sweetwater President-elect of National Cattlemen's Beef Association. "Tennessee Programs" will be highlighted by Valerie Bass from Tennessee Beef Industry Council and Commissioner of Tennessee Agriculture Jai Templeton. The conference concludes with supper, 5:00 pm at the arena.
Farmers and other interested livestock people may pre-register for the conference for $25.oo per person until June 20th. Late registration and on-site registration will be $35.oo per person. Registration forms are included in Tennessee Cattle Business magazine and at www.tncattle.org
The program will be inside, so rain or shine its full steam ahead for all Beef Farmers. The conference is a great opportunity to learn and visit with beef community leaders and fellow beef farmers. Hope to see ya at Tennessee Valley Livestock Conference at 1615 Pavilion Drive White Pine, Tn.
Lets trust mother nature to provide sunshine and moisture to raise much green grass for our beef cattle.
CONSERVATION TILLAGE
5/7/18
Conservation tillage practices improves soil health, reduces farmers inputs and time required for crop production, and others to be mentioned later.
I remember vividly the first no-till or conservation tillage demonstration introduced to farmers in our home county. Corn was to be planted into a rather heavy fescue or grass sod in a long narrow bottom strip of land. The fescue was "burned-down" (killed) using "Paraguat"herbicide, followed by "Atrazine and Lasso" herbicides for future weed and grass control. Fertilizer was broadcast over the surface of the bottom land field. The corn was planted using a new "Allis Chalmers" sod planter and laid-by until harvest. The total time required was about 4 hours for 2 to 3 acres of corn, start to finish.
Several area farmers were on hand to observe and laugh about this crazy no-till corn project. "You know that corn can not be grown in all that grass. It must be plowed and that grass turned under and working the ground to prepare a seed bed," was their comments.
Want to venture a guess as to what happened come harvest time ?????? The corn grew well all summer. The harvest yield was as good or better than most neighboring corn fields using traditional tillage methods. They didn't laugh too much after harvest, but scratched their heads wondering -- maybe that No-Till stuff willl work after all.
Today many conservation tillage systems (those with minimum disturbance of soil; minimum-till, strip-till, or no-till) begins with a cover crop such s turnips,radishes, cereal rye or other small grains, vetch and crimson clover. There are several combinations of grasses and legumes planted as cover crops in late fall or early winter following harvest of crops -- corn, soybeans, grain sorghum or other row crops.
These cover crops are burned down or killed prior to planting of current years crops in the early spring. Farmers plant current years crops into the cover crop residue.
These cover crop residues help build organic matter while improving soil health. These mulches or organic matter residues aids in reduction of erosion, improves soil fertility, water infiltration, and the holding of water for crop growth. The mulch or crop residue aids in weed control thus reducing the use of herbicides. Fertilizer and/or lime required can be broadcast on the surface and carried into the soil by rain fall.
Conservation tillage reduces time required for planting - fewer trips across the field (reduced soil compaction), less fuel used, less wear and tear on equipment, less greenhouse gas produced, less herbicides and chemical fertilizers used, thus conservation tillage is more environmental friendly.
The crop yields can be just as good or better than traditional tillage methods. Conservation tillage is an on going learning process that doesn't happen over night. Do not just plant and forget the crop until harvest. Always scout the field for crop progress.
Conservation tillage is just one more way farmers are becomming more sustainable and environmental friendly.
Related articles of interest
- Cover Crop Saga
- Livestock Stewardship
5/7/18
Conservation tillage practices improves soil health, reduces farmers inputs and time required for crop production, and others to be mentioned later.
I remember vividly the first no-till or conservation tillage demonstration introduced to farmers in our home county. Corn was to be planted into a rather heavy fescue or grass sod in a long narrow bottom strip of land. The fescue was "burned-down" (killed) using "Paraguat"herbicide, followed by "Atrazine and Lasso" herbicides for future weed and grass control. Fertilizer was broadcast over the surface of the bottom land field. The corn was planted using a new "Allis Chalmers" sod planter and laid-by until harvest. The total time required was about 4 hours for 2 to 3 acres of corn, start to finish.
Several area farmers were on hand to observe and laugh about this crazy no-till corn project. "You know that corn can not be grown in all that grass. It must be plowed and that grass turned under and working the ground to prepare a seed bed," was their comments.
Want to venture a guess as to what happened come harvest time ?????? The corn grew well all summer. The harvest yield was as good or better than most neighboring corn fields using traditional tillage methods. They didn't laugh too much after harvest, but scratched their heads wondering -- maybe that No-Till stuff willl work after all.
Today many conservation tillage systems (those with minimum disturbance of soil; minimum-till, strip-till, or no-till) begins with a cover crop such s turnips,radishes, cereal rye or other small grains, vetch and crimson clover. There are several combinations of grasses and legumes planted as cover crops in late fall or early winter following harvest of crops -- corn, soybeans, grain sorghum or other row crops.
These cover crops are burned down or killed prior to planting of current years crops in the early spring. Farmers plant current years crops into the cover crop residue.
These cover crop residues help build organic matter while improving soil health. These mulches or organic matter residues aids in reduction of erosion, improves soil fertility, water infiltration, and the holding of water for crop growth. The mulch or crop residue aids in weed control thus reducing the use of herbicides. Fertilizer and/or lime required can be broadcast on the surface and carried into the soil by rain fall.
Conservation tillage reduces time required for planting - fewer trips across the field (reduced soil compaction), less fuel used, less wear and tear on equipment, less greenhouse gas produced, less herbicides and chemical fertilizers used, thus conservation tillage is more environmental friendly.
The crop yields can be just as good or better than traditional tillage methods. Conservation tillage is an on going learning process that doesn't happen over night. Do not just plant and forget the crop until harvest. Always scout the field for crop progress.
Conservation tillage is just one more way farmers are becomming more sustainable and environmental friendly.
Related articles of interest
- Cover Crop Saga
- Livestock Stewardship
LARGE BLACK BIRDS
4/21/18
I'm not sure whether to consider myself lucky or un-lucky, as I have observed several large groups of "large black birds," better known to farmers as "Black Vultures," during the past several weeks. These birds are a real concern for any livestock farmer throughout the area.
Why???? This time of year is very important for many livestock farmers --- its calving time and/or time to prepare purchased calves for summer grazing.
These "Black Vultures" can and often attack cows in the process of giving birth and often the new born calf. Also, farmers preparing recently purchased calves for grazing -- the dehorning and castration procedures can leave calves in a more vulnerable condition for attacks due to added stress.
These "large black birds" look very much like our resident "Turkey Buzzard." These "Black Vultures" are totally black, where as the "Turkey Buzzard" is black with a red head. The Black Vulture is much more aggressive but lacks the sight and smell capabilities of the Turkey Buzzard. They tend to follow Turkey Buzzards to an area of possible food then fight them away.
The control of Black Vultures is a challenge as they are a protected species by the 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The act makes it illegal to take ( kill or destroy ) Black Vultures without a permit from the United States Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS ).
Legislation, passed in January 2016, has repealed a Tennessee state law prohibiting the taking of these federally protected birds. Black Vultures remain protected under federal law, but the repeal of the Tennessee state law makes it more difficult for USFWS personnel to enforce its law.
The Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation has obtained a statewide deprecation permit for Black Vultures from USFWS. Tennessee Farm Bureau can issue sub-permits to farmer members who are experiencing predication from these Black Vultures. These depredation sub-permits provide livestock farmers as opportunity to legally take Black Vultures that are damaging livestock, farm equipment, buildings or vehicles.
For additional sub-permit information concerning depredation contact: Debbie Briggs at 931-388-7872 extension 3020 or by e-mail [email protected]
Be prepared if these birds are in your area, do not wait for damage to occur. Hanging a Black Vulture or an effigy of the bird upside down from a high visible point -- tree, barn, or pole -- has been one method to drive other birds away from the area. However, should damage occur, be sure to report it to the Farm Services Agency for possible livestock Femininity assistance.
Related articles of interest
Agriculture Value
Livestock Stewardship
4/21/18
I'm not sure whether to consider myself lucky or un-lucky, as I have observed several large groups of "large black birds," better known to farmers as "Black Vultures," during the past several weeks. These birds are a real concern for any livestock farmer throughout the area.
Why???? This time of year is very important for many livestock farmers --- its calving time and/or time to prepare purchased calves for summer grazing.
These "Black Vultures" can and often attack cows in the process of giving birth and often the new born calf. Also, farmers preparing recently purchased calves for grazing -- the dehorning and castration procedures can leave calves in a more vulnerable condition for attacks due to added stress.
These "large black birds" look very much like our resident "Turkey Buzzard." These "Black Vultures" are totally black, where as the "Turkey Buzzard" is black with a red head. The Black Vulture is much more aggressive but lacks the sight and smell capabilities of the Turkey Buzzard. They tend to follow Turkey Buzzards to an area of possible food then fight them away.
The control of Black Vultures is a challenge as they are a protected species by the 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The act makes it illegal to take ( kill or destroy ) Black Vultures without a permit from the United States Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS ).
Legislation, passed in January 2016, has repealed a Tennessee state law prohibiting the taking of these federally protected birds. Black Vultures remain protected under federal law, but the repeal of the Tennessee state law makes it more difficult for USFWS personnel to enforce its law.
The Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation has obtained a statewide deprecation permit for Black Vultures from USFWS. Tennessee Farm Bureau can issue sub-permits to farmer members who are experiencing predication from these Black Vultures. These depredation sub-permits provide livestock farmers as opportunity to legally take Black Vultures that are damaging livestock, farm equipment, buildings or vehicles.
For additional sub-permit information concerning depredation contact: Debbie Briggs at 931-388-7872 extension 3020 or by e-mail [email protected]
Be prepared if these birds are in your area, do not wait for damage to occur. Hanging a Black Vulture or an effigy of the bird upside down from a high visible point -- tree, barn, or pole -- has been one method to drive other birds away from the area. However, should damage occur, be sure to report it to the Farm Services Agency for possible livestock Femininity assistance.
Related articles of interest
Agriculture Value
Livestock Stewardship
GRASS STAGGERS OR GRASS TETANY
3/10/18
A complex metabolic disturbance by hypomagnesium, a reduction in the concentration of magnesium (mg) in the blood of cattle, is the technical terminology from Merck Veterinary Manual 9th Edition. In everyday talk " Grass Tetany or Grass Staggers."
The "Grass Tetany" conditions occurs mainly in cows and heifers during early lactation ( shortly after giving birth ) when grazing lush, fast growth early spring grass pastures. The cattle most often affected are the heavy or good milking group. However, other conditions may influence the problem: Soil Fertility; Fertilization of Grasses; Weather.
Magnesium absorption may be reduced when Potash ( Potassium ) and Nitrogen intake are high and Sodium ( salt ) and Phosphorus intake are low. These conditions are influenced by early fertilization of pastures or on soils that are naturally high in fertility. Weather -- cool, cloudy and rainy conditions are more favorable for cool season grasses ( fescue ) and small grain ( oat, wheat, rye ) pastures to grow rather quickly, thus absorption of Mg from soils is reduced. The cattle may have Mg stored in their body tissues but are unable to re-absorb it at the rate needed.
Most generally the grass tetany disturbance occurs in early spring when conditions are more favorable for rapid grass growth. However, it could happen at other times during the year.
Many times the symptoms of grass tetany is finding a dead animal in the pasture. Sometimes signs of struggling on the ground around the head and legs can be observed. Its already past time to consult your herd health veterinarian, but a correct diagnosis may prevent future losses.
Traditionally farmers have supplemented cattle with "Hi- Mag" blocks --- ever tried getting a drink of water from a block of ice, its difficult. Its also difficult for cattle to consume enough Mg from these blocks to meet their requirements. Thats why I prefer a loose, free-choice "HI-Mag" mineral mix that will aid cattle to consume the desired amount of Mg. Another option is to feed a small amount of grain mixture with Mg Oxide. The Mg Oxide is not very tasty, so it needs to be mixed with a tasty feed so as to encourage consumption.
Always consult with your herd health veterinarian for specific recommendations or emergency treatments. Its not too early to begin supplementation.
3/10/18
A complex metabolic disturbance by hypomagnesium, a reduction in the concentration of magnesium (mg) in the blood of cattle, is the technical terminology from Merck Veterinary Manual 9th Edition. In everyday talk " Grass Tetany or Grass Staggers."
The "Grass Tetany" conditions occurs mainly in cows and heifers during early lactation ( shortly after giving birth ) when grazing lush, fast growth early spring grass pastures. The cattle most often affected are the heavy or good milking group. However, other conditions may influence the problem: Soil Fertility; Fertilization of Grasses; Weather.
Magnesium absorption may be reduced when Potash ( Potassium ) and Nitrogen intake are high and Sodium ( salt ) and Phosphorus intake are low. These conditions are influenced by early fertilization of pastures or on soils that are naturally high in fertility. Weather -- cool, cloudy and rainy conditions are more favorable for cool season grasses ( fescue ) and small grain ( oat, wheat, rye ) pastures to grow rather quickly, thus absorption of Mg from soils is reduced. The cattle may have Mg stored in their body tissues but are unable to re-absorb it at the rate needed.
Most generally the grass tetany disturbance occurs in early spring when conditions are more favorable for rapid grass growth. However, it could happen at other times during the year.
Many times the symptoms of grass tetany is finding a dead animal in the pasture. Sometimes signs of struggling on the ground around the head and legs can be observed. Its already past time to consult your herd health veterinarian, but a correct diagnosis may prevent future losses.
Traditionally farmers have supplemented cattle with "Hi- Mag" blocks --- ever tried getting a drink of water from a block of ice, its difficult. Its also difficult for cattle to consume enough Mg from these blocks to meet their requirements. Thats why I prefer a loose, free-choice "HI-Mag" mineral mix that will aid cattle to consume the desired amount of Mg. Another option is to feed a small amount of grain mixture with Mg Oxide. The Mg Oxide is not very tasty, so it needs to be mixed with a tasty feed so as to encourage consumption.
Always consult with your herd health veterinarian for specific recommendations or emergency treatments. Its not too early to begin supplementation.
THE QUITE CATTLE AUCTION
9/11/17
Harvest is a special time of year when farmers/ranchers reap the benefits of decisions made earlier this year (cattle decisions occurred 15 to 18 months earlier when mating cows and bulls) and a year's worth of work developing those crops - grain and cattle.
The cattle auction this past Thursday (September 7th) at Hodge Livestock Network where cattlemen marketed some 58 loads (48 to 50,000 lbs.per load) of cattle. Some 3700 plus steers and heifers were sold through a tele-o-auction. These cattle were sold by telephone to 8 to 10 different cattle buyers, according to auctioneer's count, but I thought it was more like 15 to 16 buyers across several states.
Several smaller farmers within our area grouped their calves (from 5 to 15 head) with other farmers to create load-lots. Thus, improving the marketing of each farmers calves.
It was a quite time. During several cattle auctions in the fall are so noisy with bawling calves its difficult to hear yourself think. However these cattle marketed during today's auction remained on their home farms, thus a quite time. These calves will remain on the home farm until the buyer sends his truck, generally 7 to 10 days, to the farm or load-out facility to pick-up the calves.
These cattlemen had prepared their calves for this day several weeks or months in advance by: weaning calves 45 to 60 days; following a specific health program; teaching calves to eat and drink from troughs; pre-sorting calves into uniform groups. Today was pay-day for cattlemen for previous 14 to 18 months of work.
These calves will go to various locations for future growth. The lighter weight calves, 500 to 650 lbs. may go to pasture for a short time but the heavier calves 700 to 900 lbs. will go to feedyards to be prepared or finished for harvest in 120 to 150 days at 1350 to 1400 lbs.
It was an exciting time to watch the auctioneer's expressions and hear his voice as each load of cattle was sold to the highest bidder. Also, several farmers were present for the auction and their expressions were equally exciting, if not more so. They were enjoying their pay-day in advance of loading out of their calves.
9/11/17
Harvest is a special time of year when farmers/ranchers reap the benefits of decisions made earlier this year (cattle decisions occurred 15 to 18 months earlier when mating cows and bulls) and a year's worth of work developing those crops - grain and cattle.
The cattle auction this past Thursday (September 7th) at Hodge Livestock Network where cattlemen marketed some 58 loads (48 to 50,000 lbs.per load) of cattle. Some 3700 plus steers and heifers were sold through a tele-o-auction. These cattle were sold by telephone to 8 to 10 different cattle buyers, according to auctioneer's count, but I thought it was more like 15 to 16 buyers across several states.
Several smaller farmers within our area grouped their calves (from 5 to 15 head) with other farmers to create load-lots. Thus, improving the marketing of each farmers calves.
It was a quite time. During several cattle auctions in the fall are so noisy with bawling calves its difficult to hear yourself think. However these cattle marketed during today's auction remained on their home farms, thus a quite time. These calves will remain on the home farm until the buyer sends his truck, generally 7 to 10 days, to the farm or load-out facility to pick-up the calves.
These cattlemen had prepared their calves for this day several weeks or months in advance by: weaning calves 45 to 60 days; following a specific health program; teaching calves to eat and drink from troughs; pre-sorting calves into uniform groups. Today was pay-day for cattlemen for previous 14 to 18 months of work.
These calves will go to various locations for future growth. The lighter weight calves, 500 to 650 lbs. may go to pasture for a short time but the heavier calves 700 to 900 lbs. will go to feedyards to be prepared or finished for harvest in 120 to 150 days at 1350 to 1400 lbs.
It was an exciting time to watch the auctioneer's expressions and hear his voice as each load of cattle was sold to the highest bidder. Also, several farmers were present for the auction and their expressions were equally exciting, if not more so. They were enjoying their pay-day in advance of loading out of their calves.
MAKING HAY AS THE SUN SHINES
5/18/2017
The busy hay season is upon many of us today and yesterday. Hay harvest equipment is all fired up heading to fields all across the country. Harvesting hay ( dried grasses ) for winter feed ( food ) for cattle is important as winter feeding periods are one of the Largest expense items of beef cattle ownership/stewardship, often accounting for 75 to 80 % of the total cost.
We as farmers/ranchers try to harvest grasses as hay before these plants mature. Plants maturity is a big factor affecting quality of our hays for cattle. We presently have no cattle on our home farm but market many bales of hay to other beef cattle farmers within our area.
Our grasses have the highest quality or feed value before producing a seedhead. Currently we are trying hard to harvest our hay just as 10 to 15 %, or before, the grass produces a seedhead. As plants mature a decline in both protein and TDN ( Total Digestable Nutrients ) or energy occurs.
High quality hays will have sufficient protein and energy to meet the nutritional requirements for many classes of cattle. We would like the forage analysis on each cutting of hay to be at least 12 % crude protein and 60 to 65 % TDN. Hays within these ranges would help eliminate protein and energy supplements from other feed sources during winter feeding periods.
Nowthat we have the "what, why, and when" stated lets mention "how." Harvesting quality hay requires attention to maturity, weather, harvest equpment, storage and fertilizer. As harvest approaches, we keep a close eye on weather forecast as two, preferably three, days of warm sunny days are needed to dry the grasses for storage.
I have observed many colors and types of haying equipment running across many fields during the past weeks. The grasses have been cut or mowed using disk mowers and haybines. Our farm used a haybine, which cuts the grass and crimps blades and stems to allow moisture to escape for quicker drying. The crimping occurs as the cut grass goes between two rubber rollers, just before being placed on the ground for drying.
Shortly after mowing, probably 2 to 3 hours, as the grass has wilted we generally stir the grass using a ''tedder.'' The Tedder gently fluffed the grass allowing more warm air to flow through to aid drying. A side benefit would be a gentle breeze blowing across the field, thus aiding the drying process even more.
The morning or early afternoon of the second day we use a roll-bar rake, some farmers use a larger V-rake, to gather the dried grass into large continuous "windrows." These windrows are much like spaghetti, only longer and larger.
As one tractor is raking the hay another begins baling. We use a "Vermeer" round baler to gather those windrows and form large round bales of hay. We try to make these bales to weigh 1000 to 1200 pounds each. Thus, one bale will generally feed 35 cows one day, as each cow requires 28 to 32 pounds of hay each day.
I have observed one farmer using a "bale accumulator" on a bob-cat ( skid steer ). He had baled small square bales ( 28'' by 48'' ) and was going through the field gathering these bales in groups of 8 bales, then placing those on a wagon, going to the barn for storage.
Also, another farmer was swing a "bale wagon" to pick-up and stack his small square bales of hay. I remember many years ago it required four people to do what these accumulators were accomplishing with one person.
After our round bales have set in the field a day or so they are picked up and moved inside barns for storage, as much as possible, to reduce losses due to weathering. Last year we had to store several bales outside in rows facing North to South and off the ground using old truck tires that remained from brothers trucking days.
We generally market these bales stored outside first. Because, if hay is outside on the ground a large part can deteriorate ( spoil or rot ) thus having no feed value.
The harvest process, we have mowers, followed by tenders and next comes the rakes, then balers. Finally removal of hay bales so the next crop can begin growing.
This year we are considering a split application of fertilizer following each cutting or harvest rather than applying the total amount of fertilize at one time.
Days of work on the farm are never-ending, as one job is completed another is in waiting.
Related articles
1- Minerals
2- Jelly Rolls
3- Mowing and Growing
5/18/2017
The busy hay season is upon many of us today and yesterday. Hay harvest equipment is all fired up heading to fields all across the country. Harvesting hay ( dried grasses ) for winter feed ( food ) for cattle is important as winter feeding periods are one of the Largest expense items of beef cattle ownership/stewardship, often accounting for 75 to 80 % of the total cost.
We as farmers/ranchers try to harvest grasses as hay before these plants mature. Plants maturity is a big factor affecting quality of our hays for cattle. We presently have no cattle on our home farm but market many bales of hay to other beef cattle farmers within our area.
Our grasses have the highest quality or feed value before producing a seedhead. Currently we are trying hard to harvest our hay just as 10 to 15 %, or before, the grass produces a seedhead. As plants mature a decline in both protein and TDN ( Total Digestable Nutrients ) or energy occurs.
High quality hays will have sufficient protein and energy to meet the nutritional requirements for many classes of cattle. We would like the forage analysis on each cutting of hay to be at least 12 % crude protein and 60 to 65 % TDN. Hays within these ranges would help eliminate protein and energy supplements from other feed sources during winter feeding periods.
Nowthat we have the "what, why, and when" stated lets mention "how." Harvesting quality hay requires attention to maturity, weather, harvest equpment, storage and fertilizer. As harvest approaches, we keep a close eye on weather forecast as two, preferably three, days of warm sunny days are needed to dry the grasses for storage.
I have observed many colors and types of haying equipment running across many fields during the past weeks. The grasses have been cut or mowed using disk mowers and haybines. Our farm used a haybine, which cuts the grass and crimps blades and stems to allow moisture to escape for quicker drying. The crimping occurs as the cut grass goes between two rubber rollers, just before being placed on the ground for drying.
Shortly after mowing, probably 2 to 3 hours, as the grass has wilted we generally stir the grass using a ''tedder.'' The Tedder gently fluffed the grass allowing more warm air to flow through to aid drying. A side benefit would be a gentle breeze blowing across the field, thus aiding the drying process even more.
The morning or early afternoon of the second day we use a roll-bar rake, some farmers use a larger V-rake, to gather the dried grass into large continuous "windrows." These windrows are much like spaghetti, only longer and larger.
As one tractor is raking the hay another begins baling. We use a "Vermeer" round baler to gather those windrows and form large round bales of hay. We try to make these bales to weigh 1000 to 1200 pounds each. Thus, one bale will generally feed 35 cows one day, as each cow requires 28 to 32 pounds of hay each day.
I have observed one farmer using a "bale accumulator" on a bob-cat ( skid steer ). He had baled small square bales ( 28'' by 48'' ) and was going through the field gathering these bales in groups of 8 bales, then placing those on a wagon, going to the barn for storage.
Also, another farmer was swing a "bale wagon" to pick-up and stack his small square bales of hay. I remember many years ago it required four people to do what these accumulators were accomplishing with one person.
After our round bales have set in the field a day or so they are picked up and moved inside barns for storage, as much as possible, to reduce losses due to weathering. Last year we had to store several bales outside in rows facing North to South and off the ground using old truck tires that remained from brothers trucking days.
We generally market these bales stored outside first. Because, if hay is outside on the ground a large part can deteriorate ( spoil or rot ) thus having no feed value.
The harvest process, we have mowers, followed by tenders and next comes the rakes, then balers. Finally removal of hay bales so the next crop can begin growing.
This year we are considering a split application of fertilizer following each cutting or harvest rather than applying the total amount of fertilize at one time.
Days of work on the farm are never-ending, as one job is completed another is in waiting.
Related articles
1- Minerals
2- Jelly Rolls
3- Mowing and Growing
WINTER FEEDING OF BEEF CATTLE
11/7/16
The calendar says fall is here and that means winter or cooler weather will not be far away. The cooler or colder weather means it's time to think about winter feeding of those beef cattle.
The very dry October here in East Tennessee has caused the grass growth to come to a rather abrupt stop or it has definitely slowed. Several area farmrest have begun to feed a bit of hay (dried grass) for their cattle.
Normally during this time of year we would be taking hay samples from stored winter feeds. We have identified the hay from various fields and whether it's first or second harvest. The hay is sampled using a "penn state forage sampler" which we use to borer into several bales to get a composite sample from each field and harvest period. These samples are sent to the University of Tennessee Forage Lab to be evaluated for nutrition: Protein, TDN -- total digestible nutrients and Fiber, all on a dry matter basis. Once we receive these forage analysis results, we can balance a ration (daily feeds) to meet the nutritional requirements for the beef cows, beef heifers and yearling calves.
To detrimental in advance how much hay will be needed for winter feeding, we roughly figure the cows at 1200 lbs, heifers at 800 lbs and yearling calves at 650 to 700 lbs each. The cattle will generally consume (eat) 2% of their body weight, therefore the cows will consume 24 lbs of hay daily but we must add about 2 lbs for moisture content and there will be some waste and spoilage, so add another 2 to 4 lbs, then we are really close to 30 lbs of hay per cow per day. Therefore, 30 lbs per cow for 120 days equals 3600 lbs of hay for each cow that we must have on hand for the total winter feeding period. Example -- a 30 cow herd needs 108,000 lbs or 54 tons of hay for winter feeding.
The heifers and yearling calves will not consume that total, but will be in the neighborhood of half that amount or 15 lbs per day. This will give an idea for an estimated amount of hay when planning winter hay needs.
NOW -- back to the forage samples and nutritional evaluations. These samples and balanced rations allows farmers to meet the nutritional requirements of their cattle. Depending on the hay quality, it may require more or less than the 30 lbs of hay daily. The hay may or may not require supplementation from grains. These forage analysis returns valuable information toward meeting the nutritional requirements of various classes of cattle. With feed prices and cattle prices as they are today, it's important that farmers know their cost of feeding their cattle.
Theforage samples or analysis does not make good forage out of poor quality hays, it only provides nutritional values. The forage sample may save dollars on winter bills while meeting the nutritional requirements of the cattle.
OH OH -- another rule of thumb to consider, colder weather increases the cattles nutritional requirements. Adjusting for temperature, for each degreee below 32 F, we need to add 1% to the daily feed requirements. Also, consider wind chill, a 30 F day and a wind of 5 mph equals a 27 F day temperature, so thats 5% more feed. So do not forget wind chill or wind speed.
Farmers must be on their toes (guard) to continually feed their cattle to meet their nutritional requirement.
For articles of interest,
1- How Cattle Stay Warm
2- Jelly Rolls -- What ??
3- Beef Quality Assurance
4- The Calf's First Milk
5- We Raised Beef Cattle
11/7/16
The calendar says fall is here and that means winter or cooler weather will not be far away. The cooler or colder weather means it's time to think about winter feeding of those beef cattle.
The very dry October here in East Tennessee has caused the grass growth to come to a rather abrupt stop or it has definitely slowed. Several area farmrest have begun to feed a bit of hay (dried grass) for their cattle.
Normally during this time of year we would be taking hay samples from stored winter feeds. We have identified the hay from various fields and whether it's first or second harvest. The hay is sampled using a "penn state forage sampler" which we use to borer into several bales to get a composite sample from each field and harvest period. These samples are sent to the University of Tennessee Forage Lab to be evaluated for nutrition: Protein, TDN -- total digestible nutrients and Fiber, all on a dry matter basis. Once we receive these forage analysis results, we can balance a ration (daily feeds) to meet the nutritional requirements for the beef cows, beef heifers and yearling calves.
To detrimental in advance how much hay will be needed for winter feeding, we roughly figure the cows at 1200 lbs, heifers at 800 lbs and yearling calves at 650 to 700 lbs each. The cattle will generally consume (eat) 2% of their body weight, therefore the cows will consume 24 lbs of hay daily but we must add about 2 lbs for moisture content and there will be some waste and spoilage, so add another 2 to 4 lbs, then we are really close to 30 lbs of hay per cow per day. Therefore, 30 lbs per cow for 120 days equals 3600 lbs of hay for each cow that we must have on hand for the total winter feeding period. Example -- a 30 cow herd needs 108,000 lbs or 54 tons of hay for winter feeding.
The heifers and yearling calves will not consume that total, but will be in the neighborhood of half that amount or 15 lbs per day. This will give an idea for an estimated amount of hay when planning winter hay needs.
NOW -- back to the forage samples and nutritional evaluations. These samples and balanced rations allows farmers to meet the nutritional requirements of their cattle. Depending on the hay quality, it may require more or less than the 30 lbs of hay daily. The hay may or may not require supplementation from grains. These forage analysis returns valuable information toward meeting the nutritional requirements of various classes of cattle. With feed prices and cattle prices as they are today, it's important that farmers know their cost of feeding their cattle.
Theforage samples or analysis does not make good forage out of poor quality hays, it only provides nutritional values. The forage sample may save dollars on winter bills while meeting the nutritional requirements of the cattle.
OH OH -- another rule of thumb to consider, colder weather increases the cattles nutritional requirements. Adjusting for temperature, for each degreee below 32 F, we need to add 1% to the daily feed requirements. Also, consider wind chill, a 30 F day and a wind of 5 mph equals a 27 F day temperature, so thats 5% more feed. So do not forget wind chill or wind speed.
Farmers must be on their toes (guard) to continually feed their cattle to meet their nutritional requirement.
For articles of interest,
1- How Cattle Stay Warm
2- Jelly Rolls -- What ??
3- Beef Quality Assurance
4- The Calf's First Milk
5- We Raised Beef Cattle
NO PESTICIDE CLAIM
7-18-16
A commonly held mis-conception is that "organic farmers" do not use pesticides. Included under the definition of pesticides are: Insecticides - for control of insects; Herbicides- for control of weeds and grass; Fungicides- for plant disease control; Miteicides- for control of small parasite organisms; and Rodenticides for control of various rodents.
Dr. Adrianne Massey, managing director of science and regulatory affairs for the Biotechnology Industry Organization, has found that most people are stunned to discover organic farmers can and do use many pesticides for control measures. Not only just chemicals that do not occur in nature but organic farmers are allowed to use "natural materials," that are often more toxic than synthetic ( man made ) pesticides.
Dr. Massey is all to well familiar with the claim that organic farmers make about pesticides used in conventional agriculture through various meetings with farm and consumer groups, and answering the GMO- bashing that seems to be generated by environmental groups, almost on a daily basis.
Its too bad that one segment of agriculture spends time and energy to discredit ( tear down ) another segment of agriculture to promote their's. Isn't there enough american families (consumers ) to support each - organic and conventional food farmers ????
A list of approved pesticides for use in organic farming systems can be found on the USDA's Natural Organic Standards web-site: https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/organic/national-list
Also, articles concerning misleading claims about no pesticides used in organic food products can be found at web-site: http://n.pr/1jxgJsw and http://bit.ly/1TFEcpl
Maureen Langlois in an article"Organic Pesticides: Not an Orymoron" reports that nearly 20% of organic lettuce tested positive for pesticides. Also, of interest was approved pesticides for organic farmers included -- pyrethrin, azadirachtin, and spinosads that are considered toxic by the Environmental Protection Agency.
There is not much difference between organic and conventional foods when comparing the nutritional values of each. No more difference than can be caused by temperature, rain, soil type, variety, time of harvest or type of fertilizer ( chemical or manure ), any one item can influence nutrition. Reachers have found little evidence that organic foods are more nutritious ( vitamins, minerals, protein, fats ) or carry fewer health risk than conventional foods. Check out web-site: https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2012/09 little-evidence-of-health-benefits-from-organic-foods-study-finds.html
The organic market is continuing to expand as many american consumers are willing to pay a premium, ( often two times as expensive as conventional foods ) for fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, milk, poultry and eggs due to more expensive farming practices.
Their research has revealed conventional foods posed no greater health risk than organic foods. Eating a healthy diet overall regardless of how foods are raised, check out web-site: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthyeating/in-depth/organic-food/art-20043880
USDA has established an organic certification program that requires organic foods to meet strict government standards identified by the USDA Organic Seal. Fifty years of studies reviewed concluded that organic and conventional foods are not significantly different in their nutrient content.
Th National Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine has released a compilation of the results of more than 900 studies showing Genetically Engineered Crops are safe and beneficial to agriculture, humans and the environment.
Other references: Delta Farm Press May 27 and June 2 Forrest Laws, editor.
Related articles you may like
1- Thoughts Concerning Mis-Representation
2- No Antibiotics in Milk
3-All Food Labels Are Not Created Equal
4- Earth Day
5- Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
6- GMO labeling
7-American Heart Association Certifies Extra Lean Beef
7-18-16
A commonly held mis-conception is that "organic farmers" do not use pesticides. Included under the definition of pesticides are: Insecticides - for control of insects; Herbicides- for control of weeds and grass; Fungicides- for plant disease control; Miteicides- for control of small parasite organisms; and Rodenticides for control of various rodents.
Dr. Adrianne Massey, managing director of science and regulatory affairs for the Biotechnology Industry Organization, has found that most people are stunned to discover organic farmers can and do use many pesticides for control measures. Not only just chemicals that do not occur in nature but organic farmers are allowed to use "natural materials," that are often more toxic than synthetic ( man made ) pesticides.
Dr. Massey is all to well familiar with the claim that organic farmers make about pesticides used in conventional agriculture through various meetings with farm and consumer groups, and answering the GMO- bashing that seems to be generated by environmental groups, almost on a daily basis.
Its too bad that one segment of agriculture spends time and energy to discredit ( tear down ) another segment of agriculture to promote their's. Isn't there enough american families (consumers ) to support each - organic and conventional food farmers ????
A list of approved pesticides for use in organic farming systems can be found on the USDA's Natural Organic Standards web-site: https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/organic/national-list
Also, articles concerning misleading claims about no pesticides used in organic food products can be found at web-site: http://n.pr/1jxgJsw and http://bit.ly/1TFEcpl
Maureen Langlois in an article"Organic Pesticides: Not an Orymoron" reports that nearly 20% of organic lettuce tested positive for pesticides. Also, of interest was approved pesticides for organic farmers included -- pyrethrin, azadirachtin, and spinosads that are considered toxic by the Environmental Protection Agency.
There is not much difference between organic and conventional foods when comparing the nutritional values of each. No more difference than can be caused by temperature, rain, soil type, variety, time of harvest or type of fertilizer ( chemical or manure ), any one item can influence nutrition. Reachers have found little evidence that organic foods are more nutritious ( vitamins, minerals, protein, fats ) or carry fewer health risk than conventional foods. Check out web-site: https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2012/09 little-evidence-of-health-benefits-from-organic-foods-study-finds.html
The organic market is continuing to expand as many american consumers are willing to pay a premium, ( often two times as expensive as conventional foods ) for fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, milk, poultry and eggs due to more expensive farming practices.
Their research has revealed conventional foods posed no greater health risk than organic foods. Eating a healthy diet overall regardless of how foods are raised, check out web-site: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthyeating/in-depth/organic-food/art-20043880
USDA has established an organic certification program that requires organic foods to meet strict government standards identified by the USDA Organic Seal. Fifty years of studies reviewed concluded that organic and conventional foods are not significantly different in their nutrient content.
Th National Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine has released a compilation of the results of more than 900 studies showing Genetically Engineered Crops are safe and beneficial to agriculture, humans and the environment.
Other references: Delta Farm Press May 27 and June 2 Forrest Laws, editor.
Related articles you may like
1- Thoughts Concerning Mis-Representation
2- No Antibiotics in Milk
3-All Food Labels Are Not Created Equal
4- Earth Day
5- Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
6- GMO labeling
7-American Heart Association Certifies Extra Lean Beef
Where did we as farmers go wrong?
07-08-16
Where did we as farmers go wrong? I am continually amazed that one segment of agriculture has to discredit or criticize one to promote their segment. There are only 2% of us and 98% of american family consumers -- that should be sufficient for all agriculture to share. We all need to work together to combat all the negativity that activist and environmental groups continually promote.
The following letter from David Haggard from Steele, Mo. does a good job describing today's technology and yesteryear's agriculture. I trust you will read the entire letter.
When did we go wrong? When did I become a factory farmer polluting the world? My early farming experience started in the early 1959's. Our farm was about 800 acres of Mississippi River Delta land upon which we grew corn, cotton, wheat, sorghum, soybeans, pasture, milk cows, beef cows, hogs, work horses, mules,sheep chickens turkeys and geese.
All these crops and animals were used and consumed on the farm with the exception of the cotton and soybeans. They were the only things that left the farm in exchange for money.
We were a completely organic family farm. But it took 13 large families to run our farm. We fed ourselves and maybe a handful of others.
Our only pesticide was DDT, which was used to suppress bed lice and mosquitoes. Our only herbicide was plows,hoes and the geese who ate the grass out of the cotton (if we kept them fenced in).
OK, fast forward and our farm today numbers about 4000 acres and is run by only four of us. Due to our Delta climate and humidity, we now grow no livestock and only three crops, those which show an economic advantage: corn, soybeans and rice. All are irrigated.
We yield at least five times more of these crops than we did 65 years ago and export it all to feed others.
We also maintain the farm in much better condition than it was 65 years ago. This was made possible by advancements in equipment, computers, chemistry and better plant genetics.
Here is where we seem to get into trouble with some of the urban people who haven't worked on a farm.
We must not forget there is a generation teaching our next generation in school. Many believe that we are a factory farm if we use pesticides, and we area liability to their environment because we grow genetically altered crops (GMO).
Most of generation millennia's have picked this up from others but have not taken time to explore this any deeper. They believe organic farming should be the only practice used in U.S.
So I have explained that we were all organic in the 1950's, but needed about 40 times the amount of labor that we now have with less than a third of today's acres. This tells me three things about organic modern farms:
1- We will need a lot more labor.
2- Our crops will cost more than three times as much as present.
3- Most of the people we are exporting to will have to go without food since we will not produce as much as today.
On our present farm we sometimes have to spray our non-GMO crops when worms break out.
Often we spray with a pyrethroid that is made out of ground chrysanthemums that are toxic to worms and other leaf feeders. Chrysanthemums genetically altered themselves to keep the bugs off.
When we spray for a weed outbreak we have to consult a wind chart that tells us what direction the wind must be out of in order to not get the spray on another crop.
We have 56 fields that are adjacent to 161 neighbors. So if the wind is out of the south-west we know which fields can be sprayed, but it must be between 1 and 10 miles per hour.
We hope the wind patterns let us get around to all needy fields, but sometimes they don't and we lose a field.
These chemicals we are using are less dangerous to people and the environment than the old chemicals of the past. The ones we use now are very specific and break down under sunlight.
The largest acreage of a genetically altered (GMO) crop on our farm is corn with its Bt gene to stop insects from feeding on it. This gene was extracted from a living soil organism's protein and bred into the corn.
I thought we were progressing nicely since our chemicals are less toxic and we are using less of them on the GMO crops, but not everyone chooses to accept this.
My past experience at organic farming is not all that I am relying on here. For several years I have been in charge of planting and growing crops of everything from beans to zucchini on a seven acre community garden.
This requires close cultivation each week along with 10 to 15 hoe hands working five days a week. When the volunteers play out we go to a correction facility for more hoe hands.
We have one weed that if not chopped below the surface of the ground will grow three new terminals (seed heads) where there was only one and which will make seed within three weeks.
They are so prolific that one of the ministers that helps us chop declares that every time he kills one, three came to the funeral.
How many scientific advancements do these people want us to throw out?? We must find ways to tell our story before this generation teaches our grandchildren that actually going backwards is the answer. This would leave only the wealthy few to be fed.
These young people who are against modern farming are suffering from idle hand, idle mind syndrome.
Why shouldn't the silent majority talk over this noise they are making. Our silence has been taken by many as an admission of guilt, so come on you all and speak up so that you are heard even in urban areas.
I trust that you have realized and understand what Mr. David Haggard is try to relay. Thanks for your consideration.
07-08-16
Where did we as farmers go wrong? I am continually amazed that one segment of agriculture has to discredit or criticize one to promote their segment. There are only 2% of us and 98% of american family consumers -- that should be sufficient for all agriculture to share. We all need to work together to combat all the negativity that activist and environmental groups continually promote.
The following letter from David Haggard from Steele, Mo. does a good job describing today's technology and yesteryear's agriculture. I trust you will read the entire letter.
When did we go wrong? When did I become a factory farmer polluting the world? My early farming experience started in the early 1959's. Our farm was about 800 acres of Mississippi River Delta land upon which we grew corn, cotton, wheat, sorghum, soybeans, pasture, milk cows, beef cows, hogs, work horses, mules,sheep chickens turkeys and geese.
All these crops and animals were used and consumed on the farm with the exception of the cotton and soybeans. They were the only things that left the farm in exchange for money.
We were a completely organic family farm. But it took 13 large families to run our farm. We fed ourselves and maybe a handful of others.
Our only pesticide was DDT, which was used to suppress bed lice and mosquitoes. Our only herbicide was plows,hoes and the geese who ate the grass out of the cotton (if we kept them fenced in).
OK, fast forward and our farm today numbers about 4000 acres and is run by only four of us. Due to our Delta climate and humidity, we now grow no livestock and only three crops, those which show an economic advantage: corn, soybeans and rice. All are irrigated.
We yield at least five times more of these crops than we did 65 years ago and export it all to feed others.
We also maintain the farm in much better condition than it was 65 years ago. This was made possible by advancements in equipment, computers, chemistry and better plant genetics.
Here is where we seem to get into trouble with some of the urban people who haven't worked on a farm.
We must not forget there is a generation teaching our next generation in school. Many believe that we are a factory farm if we use pesticides, and we area liability to their environment because we grow genetically altered crops (GMO).
Most of generation millennia's have picked this up from others but have not taken time to explore this any deeper. They believe organic farming should be the only practice used in U.S.
So I have explained that we were all organic in the 1950's, but needed about 40 times the amount of labor that we now have with less than a third of today's acres. This tells me three things about organic modern farms:
1- We will need a lot more labor.
2- Our crops will cost more than three times as much as present.
3- Most of the people we are exporting to will have to go without food since we will not produce as much as today.
On our present farm we sometimes have to spray our non-GMO crops when worms break out.
Often we spray with a pyrethroid that is made out of ground chrysanthemums that are toxic to worms and other leaf feeders. Chrysanthemums genetically altered themselves to keep the bugs off.
When we spray for a weed outbreak we have to consult a wind chart that tells us what direction the wind must be out of in order to not get the spray on another crop.
We have 56 fields that are adjacent to 161 neighbors. So if the wind is out of the south-west we know which fields can be sprayed, but it must be between 1 and 10 miles per hour.
We hope the wind patterns let us get around to all needy fields, but sometimes they don't and we lose a field.
These chemicals we are using are less dangerous to people and the environment than the old chemicals of the past. The ones we use now are very specific and break down under sunlight.
The largest acreage of a genetically altered (GMO) crop on our farm is corn with its Bt gene to stop insects from feeding on it. This gene was extracted from a living soil organism's protein and bred into the corn.
I thought we were progressing nicely since our chemicals are less toxic and we are using less of them on the GMO crops, but not everyone chooses to accept this.
My past experience at organic farming is not all that I am relying on here. For several years I have been in charge of planting and growing crops of everything from beans to zucchini on a seven acre community garden.
This requires close cultivation each week along with 10 to 15 hoe hands working five days a week. When the volunteers play out we go to a correction facility for more hoe hands.
We have one weed that if not chopped below the surface of the ground will grow three new terminals (seed heads) where there was only one and which will make seed within three weeks.
They are so prolific that one of the ministers that helps us chop declares that every time he kills one, three came to the funeral.
How many scientific advancements do these people want us to throw out?? We must find ways to tell our story before this generation teaches our grandchildren that actually going backwards is the answer. This would leave only the wealthy few to be fed.
These young people who are against modern farming are suffering from idle hand, idle mind syndrome.
Why shouldn't the silent majority talk over this noise they are making. Our silence has been taken by many as an admission of guilt, so come on you all and speak up so that you are heard even in urban areas.
I trust that you have realized and understand what Mr. David Haggard is try to relay. Thanks for your consideration.
HEAT STRESS
07-08-16
A summer time of high temperatures combined with high humidity creates heat stress for most livestock. Farmers/ranchers are concerned for their livestock, especially water and shade availability during these summer months. Heat stress develops during these times and may effect livestock regardless of location.
I always thought in the east we contend with high temperatures and high humidity and the west contended with high temperatures and lower humidity. However, heat is heat regardless and humidity brings on additional stress.
These temperatures and humidity conditions bring on heat stress and the only change comes from Mother Nature. There are things farmers/ranchers need to know to reduce the threat of heat stress and livestock tolerance to heat stress from Dr. Dee Griffin and Dr. Terry Madar from Kansas State University.
1- 55 degrees is short sleeve weather for cattle and 82 degrees is upper critical temperature.
2- It takes a calf 30 days to acclimate to warm temperatures, approximately 1 degree per day.
3- Heifers are more susceptible to heat than steers due to natural female cycling.
4- Air flow and wind are critical as they decrease the heat index temperature according to wind speed; 1 mile per hour = 1 degree drop in index temperature.
5- Humidity exaggerates heat stress; cattle are much more comfortable in dry heat.
6- Black hided cattle are more susceptible to heat stress than lighter colored cattle/animals as their internal temperature will be 1 to 1.5 degrees higher.
7- High preforming cattle often have a faster metabolism and as a result can be affected the most by heat.
8- Stable flies and other flies and gnats increase total stress on animals so it is important to maintain the farm/ranch to limit insect pest.
9- Water requirements of cattle increases from 10 to 20% of their body weight during heat stress. An ample source of cool and clean water provides your best mitigator against heat stress.
10- Hot days combined with nights where the temperature does not fall below 70 degrees are the most problematic especially if humidity is significant and wind speed is low.
11- There is a two hour lag between the highest heat of the day and when a calf has the highest level of heat stress -- after the peak, it takes approximately six hours for the calf to cool down.
Some of the management practices farmers/ranchers can provide to help reduce heat stress throughout the summer months are:
1- Move cattle or conduct chute work early in the day before temperatures -- heat -- builds up.
2- If cattle are in pens or corrals -- reduce their numbers so that air movement is available to all and have sufficient shade.
3- If cattle are in pastures, be sure to provide sufficient shade either trees or artificial shade such as shade cloths or other portable shade.
4- provide sufficient clean water in pens or pastures.
5- Manage fescue pastures to reduce fescue toxicity -- thus keep seed head development to a minimum as the seeds are where most endophyte is located.
6- If cattle are to be or being fed -- feed early in the morning hours and late afternoon hours when temperatures are cooler.
7- Provide external parasite ( flies ) control through ear tags, back rubbers, self oilers, dust bags and minerals containing IGR ( insect growth regulator ).
8- Sprinklers in confinement barns or pens.
Remember, lets do our part to reduce heat stress on our livestock. Several of these comments are from the feedyard foodie, Anne Burkholder
07-08-16
A summer time of high temperatures combined with high humidity creates heat stress for most livestock. Farmers/ranchers are concerned for their livestock, especially water and shade availability during these summer months. Heat stress develops during these times and may effect livestock regardless of location.
I always thought in the east we contend with high temperatures and high humidity and the west contended with high temperatures and lower humidity. However, heat is heat regardless and humidity brings on additional stress.
These temperatures and humidity conditions bring on heat stress and the only change comes from Mother Nature. There are things farmers/ranchers need to know to reduce the threat of heat stress and livestock tolerance to heat stress from Dr. Dee Griffin and Dr. Terry Madar from Kansas State University.
1- 55 degrees is short sleeve weather for cattle and 82 degrees is upper critical temperature.
2- It takes a calf 30 days to acclimate to warm temperatures, approximately 1 degree per day.
3- Heifers are more susceptible to heat than steers due to natural female cycling.
4- Air flow and wind are critical as they decrease the heat index temperature according to wind speed; 1 mile per hour = 1 degree drop in index temperature.
5- Humidity exaggerates heat stress; cattle are much more comfortable in dry heat.
6- Black hided cattle are more susceptible to heat stress than lighter colored cattle/animals as their internal temperature will be 1 to 1.5 degrees higher.
7- High preforming cattle often have a faster metabolism and as a result can be affected the most by heat.
8- Stable flies and other flies and gnats increase total stress on animals so it is important to maintain the farm/ranch to limit insect pest.
9- Water requirements of cattle increases from 10 to 20% of their body weight during heat stress. An ample source of cool and clean water provides your best mitigator against heat stress.
10- Hot days combined with nights where the temperature does not fall below 70 degrees are the most problematic especially if humidity is significant and wind speed is low.
11- There is a two hour lag between the highest heat of the day and when a calf has the highest level of heat stress -- after the peak, it takes approximately six hours for the calf to cool down.
Some of the management practices farmers/ranchers can provide to help reduce heat stress throughout the summer months are:
1- Move cattle or conduct chute work early in the day before temperatures -- heat -- builds up.
2- If cattle are in pens or corrals -- reduce their numbers so that air movement is available to all and have sufficient shade.
3- If cattle are in pastures, be sure to provide sufficient shade either trees or artificial shade such as shade cloths or other portable shade.
4- provide sufficient clean water in pens or pastures.
5- Manage fescue pastures to reduce fescue toxicity -- thus keep seed head development to a minimum as the seeds are where most endophyte is located.
6- If cattle are to be or being fed -- feed early in the morning hours and late afternoon hours when temperatures are cooler.
7- Provide external parasite ( flies ) control through ear tags, back rubbers, self oilers, dust bags and minerals containing IGR ( insect growth regulator ).
8- Sprinklers in confinement barns or pens.
Remember, lets do our part to reduce heat stress on our livestock. Several of these comments are from the feedyard foodie, Anne Burkholder
A ENJOYABLE DAY
07-8-16
T'other day was another trip for the memories as I wasn't scheduled for anything in particular. So early Wednesday ( 6-8-'16 ) morning I decided to take the day and visit the Hawkins County Cattlemen's Association ( HCCA ) load-out.
The HCCA is a diverse group of East Tennessee farmers who pool together yearling type calves/cattle to be marketed as truck-load ( 48 to 50,000 lbs. ) lots. HCCA markets these combined cattle through Hodge Livestock Network, better known as a video auction. The cattle are sold on the first Thursday each month and loaded-out on the buyers truck the following Wednesday. There were three loads of HCCA calves consigned for the June sale.
The reason it's a trip of memories is -- this is where I worked or was employed for about eight years following retirement from University of Tennessee Agriculture Extension Service. I got to see and visit with several farmers that were bringing their calves for load-out.
I was much surprised as to the way the cattle were being handled and processed. There were no whips, electric cattle prods, yelling or sorting sticks being used. Also, all those cattle trailers were in good order as to floors, lights and tires.
Most of these farmers have been through Beef Quality Assurance and Master Beef Producer courses where handling procedures, health programs and transportation have been discussed and emphasized. It was very evident that these farmers had taken home the course lesson's and put those into practice with their cattle.
Following receiving of cattle, they were evaluated, weighed and penned according to the lot description. Once all cattle were received and processed the head count, total weight and cattle condition were reviewed and made ready for load-out on a buyers truck. These cattle were destine for additional grazing on grass or to a feed-yard to be a finished beef product for american families dinner table.
It was an enjoyable day, especially having an opportunity to visit with many farmers.
Interesting Articles found on our web-page
1- A Trip Down Memory Lane
2- Earth Day
3- We Are Farmers
4- A New Agriculture
5- Cattle And Our Environment
6- Beef Quality Assurance
07-8-16
T'other day was another trip for the memories as I wasn't scheduled for anything in particular. So early Wednesday ( 6-8-'16 ) morning I decided to take the day and visit the Hawkins County Cattlemen's Association ( HCCA ) load-out.
The HCCA is a diverse group of East Tennessee farmers who pool together yearling type calves/cattle to be marketed as truck-load ( 48 to 50,000 lbs. ) lots. HCCA markets these combined cattle through Hodge Livestock Network, better known as a video auction. The cattle are sold on the first Thursday each month and loaded-out on the buyers truck the following Wednesday. There were three loads of HCCA calves consigned for the June sale.
The reason it's a trip of memories is -- this is where I worked or was employed for about eight years following retirement from University of Tennessee Agriculture Extension Service. I got to see and visit with several farmers that were bringing their calves for load-out.
I was much surprised as to the way the cattle were being handled and processed. There were no whips, electric cattle prods, yelling or sorting sticks being used. Also, all those cattle trailers were in good order as to floors, lights and tires.
Most of these farmers have been through Beef Quality Assurance and Master Beef Producer courses where handling procedures, health programs and transportation have been discussed and emphasized. It was very evident that these farmers had taken home the course lesson's and put those into practice with their cattle.
Following receiving of cattle, they were evaluated, weighed and penned according to the lot description. Once all cattle were received and processed the head count, total weight and cattle condition were reviewed and made ready for load-out on a buyers truck. These cattle were destine for additional grazing on grass or to a feed-yard to be a finished beef product for american families dinner table.
It was an enjoyable day, especially having an opportunity to visit with many farmers.
Interesting Articles found on our web-page
1- A Trip Down Memory Lane
2- Earth Day
3- We Are Farmers
4- A New Agriculture
5- Cattle And Our Environment
6- Beef Quality Assurance
Tennessee Farm Bureau Offering Black Vultures Depredation Sub-Permits
06-21-16 Black Vulture attacks on livestock are a serious issue for Tennessee farmers. Last year according to USDA APHIS Wildlife Services, Tennessee livestock farmers reported losses of 233 cattle to black vultures. There were possibly additional losses that were not reported. Unfortunately, farmers are limited in legal methods of removing problem black vultures since they are protected under the federal "Migratory Bird Treaty Act." Previously, the only legal option to protect livestock from depredation was to apply annually for an individual black vulture depredation permit at the cost of $100.oo. Tennessee Farm Bureau has worked with both state and federal elected and agency personnel to seek an alternative to legally protect livestock from black vultures. Tennessee Cattlemen's Association is pleased to announce Tennessee Farm Bureau board of directors has obtained a statewide depredation permit for black vultures from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Services ( USFWS ). Tennessee Farm Bureau will issue sub-permits to livestock farmers who are experiencing problems with black vultures. The Tennessee Farm Bureau statewide depredation permit provides Farm Bureau members who are livestock farmers an opportunity to apply for a livestock protection depredation sub-permit allowing legal "takes" of black vultures that are attacking livestock. The statewide sub-permit will be administered by Tennessee Farm Bureau. There is no cost to Tennessee Farm Bureau members who apply for a Tennessee Farm Bureau livestock protection depredation sub-permit. Applicants must agree to follow all rules and regulations required by USFWS in the Tennessee Farm Bureau statewide sub-permit. For additional information, rules and regulations, plus guidelines contact Debbie Briggs at 931-388-7872 extension 2205 or by e-mail at [email protected] |
1/11/15
Tennessee's Black Vulture Bill
Tennessee has enacted a bill, now law, that limits federal enforcement of the protection of "Black Vulture" birds. I have had the opportunity to talk with several farmers from surrounding counties that suspect Black Vulture involvement in deaths or destruction of beef calves. The new law will be welcome news for all area beef farmers as most are in the mist of calving season.
As I understand these "large birds" look very much like our resident "Turkey Buzzard," there are differences. The Black Vulture is totally black where as the Turkey Buzzard has a red head. The Black Vulture is more aggressive and lacks the sight and smell capabilities of the Turkey Buzzard. Therefore, the Black Vulture follows the Turkey Buzzard to the area of possible food, then fights them away.
The new law, sponsored by Frank Nicely Senator from Strawplains and Kelly Keisling Representative from Byrdstown, effectively nullifies a federal ban on the killing of these Black Vulture birds.
The new legislation has repealed a Tennessee state law prohibiting the killing of these federally protected Black Vulture birds. Black Vultures remain protected under federal law, but the repeal of the Tennessee state law will make it extremely difficult for the federal government to enforce its law protecting these Black Vulture birds.
Tennessee's newly enacted law not only makes it legal to kill Black Vultures under Tennessee state law and it also prohibits Tennessee from providing any cooperation with federal enforcement of its law.
No Tennessee funds or personnel or other Tennessee resources may be used to enforce any prohibition against the disturbance of the habitat of, alteration, taking, attempting to take, possession or transporting of a Black Vulture.
The Black Vulture issue came up because these federally protected birds were killing livestock and damaging property. An article from "The Tennessean," newspaper, states Tennessee Cattlemen's Association executive vice-president Charles Hord testified in a Tennessee Senate Committee hearing describing how Black Vultures were killing new born calves across Tennessee. Senator Paul Bailey displayed photos showing damage to a Jackson County home totaling more than $25,000.oo.
Additional information and comments are available at the Tenth Amendment Center.
Tennessee's Black Vulture Bill
Tennessee has enacted a bill, now law, that limits federal enforcement of the protection of "Black Vulture" birds. I have had the opportunity to talk with several farmers from surrounding counties that suspect Black Vulture involvement in deaths or destruction of beef calves. The new law will be welcome news for all area beef farmers as most are in the mist of calving season.
As I understand these "large birds" look very much like our resident "Turkey Buzzard," there are differences. The Black Vulture is totally black where as the Turkey Buzzard has a red head. The Black Vulture is more aggressive and lacks the sight and smell capabilities of the Turkey Buzzard. Therefore, the Black Vulture follows the Turkey Buzzard to the area of possible food, then fights them away.
The new law, sponsored by Frank Nicely Senator from Strawplains and Kelly Keisling Representative from Byrdstown, effectively nullifies a federal ban on the killing of these Black Vulture birds.
The new legislation has repealed a Tennessee state law prohibiting the killing of these federally protected Black Vulture birds. Black Vultures remain protected under federal law, but the repeal of the Tennessee state law will make it extremely difficult for the federal government to enforce its law protecting these Black Vulture birds.
Tennessee's newly enacted law not only makes it legal to kill Black Vultures under Tennessee state law and it also prohibits Tennessee from providing any cooperation with federal enforcement of its law.
No Tennessee funds or personnel or other Tennessee resources may be used to enforce any prohibition against the disturbance of the habitat of, alteration, taking, attempting to take, possession or transporting of a Black Vulture.
The Black Vulture issue came up because these federally protected birds were killing livestock and damaging property. An article from "The Tennessean," newspaper, states Tennessee Cattlemen's Association executive vice-president Charles Hord testified in a Tennessee Senate Committee hearing describing how Black Vultures were killing new born calves across Tennessee. Senator Paul Bailey displayed photos showing damage to a Jackson County home totaling more than $25,000.oo.
Additional information and comments are available at the Tenth Amendment Center.
Sevier Farmers Co-op's Annual Customers Appreciation Day
10-13-15
A full Saturday of rain was experienced during Sevier Farmers Co-op's annual customers appreciation day. However, the rain didn't dampen or reduce the enthusiasm of the crowd of customers that filled the store to capacity.
The Customers were busy discussing products with the, too many to count, vendors that filled every nook of the store, small engine shop, auto and tire bay, small animal and pet center, garden center and any place large enough to place a display table. It would be next to impossible to name or mention each of the vendors.
Sevier County Livestock Association had a beef display but were mainly in charge of grilling and preparing samples of "Flat Iron Steaks" for customers to sample. Charles Johnson and Roger Radel were kept busy preparing samples. Several customers were sampling home-made ice cream and pop corn as they picked up samples of Flat Iron Steak.
Sevier County Livestock Association's, assisted by Tennessee Beef Industry Council, display included charts and posters of the many cuts of beef, todays choices of beef ( grain finished, grass finished, natural, organic ). Also, the big 10 nutrients supplied by beef, plus recipes for "loving your grill."
Many customers ask questions about beef cuts, their preparation and quality. Plus, having many questions and comments concerning the choices of beef available on todays market. Many picked up information sheets, recipes, pencils and bumper stickers supplied by Tennessee Beef Industry Council.
The final event of today's customer appreciation day was awarding various door prizes from many vendors and Sevier County Farmers Co-op. It was a very enjoyable day capped off by our Tennessee Volunteer's squeezing out a big win over Georgia, Go Vols.
10-13-15
A full Saturday of rain was experienced during Sevier Farmers Co-op's annual customers appreciation day. However, the rain didn't dampen or reduce the enthusiasm of the crowd of customers that filled the store to capacity.
The Customers were busy discussing products with the, too many to count, vendors that filled every nook of the store, small engine shop, auto and tire bay, small animal and pet center, garden center and any place large enough to place a display table. It would be next to impossible to name or mention each of the vendors.
Sevier County Livestock Association had a beef display but were mainly in charge of grilling and preparing samples of "Flat Iron Steaks" for customers to sample. Charles Johnson and Roger Radel were kept busy preparing samples. Several customers were sampling home-made ice cream and pop corn as they picked up samples of Flat Iron Steak.
Sevier County Livestock Association's, assisted by Tennessee Beef Industry Council, display included charts and posters of the many cuts of beef, todays choices of beef ( grain finished, grass finished, natural, organic ). Also, the big 10 nutrients supplied by beef, plus recipes for "loving your grill."
Many customers ask questions about beef cuts, their preparation and quality. Plus, having many questions and comments concerning the choices of beef available on todays market. Many picked up information sheets, recipes, pencils and bumper stickers supplied by Tennessee Beef Industry Council.
The final event of today's customer appreciation day was awarding various door prizes from many vendors and Sevier County Farmers Co-op. It was a very enjoyable day capped off by our Tennessee Volunteer's squeezing out a big win over Georgia, Go Vols.
Northeast Tennessee Beef Expo
10-13-15
Today was spent attending "Northeast Tennessee Beef Expo" held at University of Tennessee Research and Education Center near Greeneville, Tennessee. Thats experiment station for some of our ole heads. The speakers were attempting to "educate" farmers on "Best Management Practices." However, it may bee as John Ikerd said: " T'weren't the things I didn't know that done me in, but T'were the things I knew and didn't do, so we don't need to be taught, just reminded."
That sums up how I felt attending several of the sessions, but there were several new items too. Each time a session like NETBE is attended, always leave with a new idea or two.
Maybe the main reason to attend is to meet and greet "ole friends" from Cocke, Carter, Sullivan, Jefferson, Greene, Grainger, Washington, Blount, Union, Johnson, and Hamblen counties. Plus sales representatives from Co-op, Farm Credit, Select Sires, Zoetis, Tn Cattlemen's Assoc. and Tn Beef Industry, Greene County Livestock Association, University of Tennessee Forage and Beef Specialist.
OH YEA the educational topics:
1- Excuses, Excuses, Excuses - Why Don't Have A Calving Season or Controlled Calving Season
2- Maximizing Herd Nutrition -- Gearing Up For Old Man Winter
3- Herd Health Made Simple -- Beef Cow/ Calf Health Calendar
4- Management Considerations -- Efficiency for the Commercial Cattle Producer
5- Heifer Development -- Tennessee Beef Heifer Development Program
6- Fencing Demonstration
After all these topics were why I attended or was it to visit friends and talk "shop." Sometimes the best ideas are picked up from other cow/calf farmers who are on the ground each and every day. Anyway it was a most enjoyable and rewarding day. TOO BAD you missed out on a good day, that is if you didn't attend NETBE.
Our Calves Lifecycle
10-12-15
A conventional beef cattle farm, such as ours, begins with farmers maintaining A group of cows (a herd) from which beef calves are raised. We tried to maintain a herd of 30 to 35 mama cows. Our calves, from birth to weaning eight mamas milk and grazed grass from pastures for the first 5 to 6 months of their life.
The decision at winning time presented us with these possibilities: (1) The farmer my market for sale the calves through an auction market. (2) The farmer weans (separates calves from their mothers) The calves and maintains them on the home farm for more growth, backgrounding. (3) The farmer made precondition the calves for a period of 45 to 60 days, adding weight, teaching calves to eat and drink from troughs and administer vaccines to improve their immune system. Following the decision the calves are market through an auction market or video sale. We preferred a combination of possibilities two and three, vans sale or market our calves through a video sale.
The calves at auction market or video sale are generally bought by other farmers (Backgrounders, preconditioners) or feed yards. These buyers generally purchase Weaned calves to be grazed on grass adding additional weight and preparing the calves for the next phase of the beef lifecycle.
Following the growing phase provided by backgrounders and preconditioners the calves are purchased by feed yards. The Calves generally spend 120 to 150 days eating a grain and hay diet providing additional weight.
As the finishing phase is completed, The calf weighing 1200 to 1300 pounds, they are purchased by harvest the facility. The harvest facility prepares the meat, produced by the calves, for grocery stores and restaurants to be purchased by American families for their dining pleasure.
Related articles:
Life saving 1 and 2
Beef quality assurance
Factors Impacting Current Beef Cattle Market
10-12-15
Recently, everywhere you find two or more farmers/ranchers gathered -- coffee shop, farm supply store, livestock market -- the subject of the prices of beef calves seems to be the main topic of discussion. These comments from Tennessee Cattlemen's Association sums up the situation rather well.
A slowing global economy, particular in Asia a top export destination for USA Beef. Commodity prices around the world are under pressure. Volatility in the world/global financial markets has spread to the commodity markets.
It's important to remember that despite recent record-high beef prices, consumer demand remains strong.
A stronger USA dollar makes USA Beef less competitive than beef from Australia or Brazil, two of our largest competitors in the global marketplace.
Drought in Australia has resulted in heavy liquidation of their domestic cattle herd, pouring beef tonnage into global markets at discounted prices.
Important export markets, such as Russia,remain closed to beef from the USA, diverting that beef tonnage to other markets at reduced prices.
Good summer weather which contributed significantly to feedlot conversion and led to large numbers of heavyweight cattle.
The decline in market prices has encouraged slow marketing of fed cattle to the packing sector and larger carcass weights have contributed to increased beef tonnage, despite smaller overall numbers of cattle. That issue creates a snowball effect that requires time and timely marketing to correct. Competing meat ( pork and chicken ) supplies are also large.
Losses in the packing sector for consecutive years, through 2014 and into early 2015 have resulted in shuttering ( closing ) of plants and reducing operating hours as the sector worked to mitigate ( reduce ) their losses. That decline in capacity has made it difficult for feeders to effectively market their cattle in a timely manner, contributing to the backlog of market ready and heavyweight cattle in the supply chain.
The futures markets have presented few opportunities to reduce risk over the past year or more, preventing opportunities to protect margins in any sector.
10-12-15
Recently, everywhere you find two or more farmers/ranchers gathered -- coffee shop, farm supply store, livestock market -- the subject of the prices of beef calves seems to be the main topic of discussion. These comments from Tennessee Cattlemen's Association sums up the situation rather well.
A slowing global economy, particular in Asia a top export destination for USA Beef. Commodity prices around the world are under pressure. Volatility in the world/global financial markets has spread to the commodity markets.
It's important to remember that despite recent record-high beef prices, consumer demand remains strong.
A stronger USA dollar makes USA Beef less competitive than beef from Australia or Brazil, two of our largest competitors in the global marketplace.
Drought in Australia has resulted in heavy liquidation of their domestic cattle herd, pouring beef tonnage into global markets at discounted prices.
Important export markets, such as Russia,remain closed to beef from the USA, diverting that beef tonnage to other markets at reduced prices.
Good summer weather which contributed significantly to feedlot conversion and led to large numbers of heavyweight cattle.
The decline in market prices has encouraged slow marketing of fed cattle to the packing sector and larger carcass weights have contributed to increased beef tonnage, despite smaller overall numbers of cattle. That issue creates a snowball effect that requires time and timely marketing to correct. Competing meat ( pork and chicken ) supplies are also large.
Losses in the packing sector for consecutive years, through 2014 and into early 2015 have resulted in shuttering ( closing ) of plants and reducing operating hours as the sector worked to mitigate ( reduce ) their losses. That decline in capacity has made it difficult for feeders to effectively market their cattle in a timely manner, contributing to the backlog of market ready and heavyweight cattle in the supply chain.
The futures markets have presented few opportunities to reduce risk over the past year or more, preventing opportunities to protect margins in any sector.
Beware of Prussic Acid Poisoning
10-12-15
Sudan grass, forage sorghums and sorghum-sudan grass crosses (our weedy friends johnson grass and shatter cane) are often planted for summer pasture and sometimes fed as green chop, silage or hay. Under certain environmental conditions, livestock may develop symptoms of prussic acid poisoning when these forages are pastured or fed as green chop.
Death can result from prussic acid poisoning, most commonly when livestock have fed on plants that are either very young, stunted by drought or frosted. Cattle and sheep are more susceptible than swine, since they are more likely to consume large quantities of the poison.
What is prussic acid poison???
Most of the prussic acid in plants exist as a bound, non-poisonous chemical called "dhurrin." It is present in most sorghums, but some species and varieties contain less than others.
Also, present in the sorghums is a material called "emulsion," which under certain conditions can react with "dhurrin" to form prussic acid also referred to as "hydrocyanic acid." If plants are damaged, such as by freezing, frosting, chewing or trampling the "emulsion-dhurrin" reaction is enhanced, freeing sufficiently larger quantities of poison ( cyanid ) to cause a potentially hazardous condition. Prussic acid is extremely poisonous.
A concentration greater than 0.1% of dry tissue is considered highly dangerous.
Signs of Prussic Acid Poisoning
The signs of prussic acid poisoning appear suddenly -- within 15 - 20 minutes after the animal consumes the tainted forage. These visual symptoms include: staggering, labored breathing, spasms and foaming at the mouth. Affected animals then often lie prostrate and thrash about. Treatment must be administered quickly to prevent death.
Treatments: Consult your local veterinarian before a problem situation occurs as treatments can vary.
This information is from Tennessee Cattlemen's Association Monday's memo.
10-12-15
Sudan grass, forage sorghums and sorghum-sudan grass crosses (our weedy friends johnson grass and shatter cane) are often planted for summer pasture and sometimes fed as green chop, silage or hay. Under certain environmental conditions, livestock may develop symptoms of prussic acid poisoning when these forages are pastured or fed as green chop.
Death can result from prussic acid poisoning, most commonly when livestock have fed on plants that are either very young, stunted by drought or frosted. Cattle and sheep are more susceptible than swine, since they are more likely to consume large quantities of the poison.
What is prussic acid poison???
Most of the prussic acid in plants exist as a bound, non-poisonous chemical called "dhurrin." It is present in most sorghums, but some species and varieties contain less than others.
Also, present in the sorghums is a material called "emulsion," which under certain conditions can react with "dhurrin" to form prussic acid also referred to as "hydrocyanic acid." If plants are damaged, such as by freezing, frosting, chewing or trampling the "emulsion-dhurrin" reaction is enhanced, freeing sufficiently larger quantities of poison ( cyanid ) to cause a potentially hazardous condition. Prussic acid is extremely poisonous.
A concentration greater than 0.1% of dry tissue is considered highly dangerous.
Signs of Prussic Acid Poisoning
The signs of prussic acid poisoning appear suddenly -- within 15 - 20 minutes after the animal consumes the tainted forage. These visual symptoms include: staggering, labored breathing, spasms and foaming at the mouth. Affected animals then often lie prostrate and thrash about. Treatment must be administered quickly to prevent death.
Treatments: Consult your local veterinarian before a problem situation occurs as treatments can vary.
This information is from Tennessee Cattlemen's Association Monday's memo.
Beef’s Lifecycle
July 22, 2015
Our entire beef community works daily to raise high quality beef (food) for American families. So, where does this all begin? The beef lifecycle begins on every cow/calf operation (farm/ranch) where the operations’ maintain a herd of Mother cows for raising beef calves.
First, cows (mature female cattle-Mothers) and bulls (intact mature male cattle-Daddys) are mated to raise calves (babies or young male and female cattle). During a 9 month (282 days) gestation period farmers/ranchers pay close attention to their Mother Cows, making sure there are no problems during their pregnancy. If any issues arise, farmers/ranchers or veterinarian (animal doctor) can step in to ensure the health and safety of Mother and baby.
Cows receive assistance from farmers/ranchers and often veterinarian during the birthing process. Which is also known as calving. Farmers/ranchers are there step by step. When a young calf is born, it weighs 60-100lbs depending on its parents genetics and just how well the Mother cows’ body preformed nutritionally during gestation. A new born calf will spend the first few months of life drinking its Mother’s milk and grazing or eating on large green grass pastures. Today, cattle are born and raised in almost every state in the USA on farms and ranches such as ours in Claiborne County Tennessee.
Animal Safety is an important priority. Its important for farmers/ranchers to be able to identify their cattle for the safety and security of their herd (a group of cows, bulls and calves). Some cattle farmers/ranchers use ear tags, (which is quite fashionable; for the girls to wear earrings) This will identify the animals with a number in their ear. Before beginning the weaning process, other calves may receive a custom brand; either by hot irons or freeze branding, so they are identifiable from a distance. The branding process does not cause any long term harm or pain to the cattle. Additionally, some ranchers in the western states are required by law to brand their cattle.
Before 4 months of age, the testicles are often removed from male calves being raised for beef, through a process called castration. Castration occurs because bulls display more aggressive behavior and can cause harm to other animals, farmers/ranchers, so removal of the testicles improves over-all safety for the animals and animals’ care takers. Removal is quick, low stress and the calves begin the healing process immediately, (much like when you cut your finger) The calf, following the process is now known as a steer.
Cattle with horns can cause injury to other cattle. For this reason, horns are removed in a process called dehorning. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends the cattle be dehorned at the earliest age possible, same as castration.
For these procedures (castration and dehorning) and others; education and tools are provided to farmers/ranchers to ensure proper cattle care (management). In 1987, the “Beef Quality Assurance” program was developed to ensure proper cattle care through each and every stage of the beef cattle lifecycle.
The lifecycle continues, at 6 to 10 months of age and approximately 500lbs, calves are ready to begin the weaning process. The calves are moved away from their mothers milk in order to graze on green grass pastures, where they eat grass and other forages that are indigestible to humans. The weaning process permits calves to become independent of their mothers milk so they continue to grow and thrive on the grass pasture.
After weaning is complete, the beef lifecycle continues. Many calves are purchased at livestock auction markets (our calves are marketed through the Hodge Livestock Network) by farmers/ranchers known as stockers or backgrounders. However, some calves (about 1 in 3 female calves) are kept on the farm. They are used for breeding animals or “mothers to be and the lifecyle begin all over again.
In every stage of the beef lifecycle, farmers are dedicated to the health and safety of their animals on the farm. Cow/calf operations are just the beginning o f how our beef community comes together to bring beef (food) from the farm to the American families dinner plate.
Following the stocker phase these mature calves move to the feedyard. Here they spend 6 months where they have access to fresh water and eat a balanced ration (eat or dieta0 from feed bunks. The cattle have room to move around in clean and comfortable lots.
Once the cattle reach a market weight of 12 to 1400 lbs at around 20 to 24 months of age they are sent to a harvest or processing facility. Here USDA inspectors (veterinarian) over see the safety, animal welfare and quality standards until the final product (meats) are shipped to restaurants and grocery stores. The grocery store and restaurant is where beef is sold to the American families for their dinner tables.
Now 5 Nutritional facts and related articles;
1. Today’s beef is leaner than ever before!
2 . It’s a great source of protein.
3. Its just as lean or leaner than chicken.
4. Beef can provide 10 essential nutrients.
5. Beef is a heart healthy food.
Related Articles:
The Power of Ten
Beef Quality Assurance
My Girls Wear Earrings
A Greener Tomorrow
Love That Lean Beef- 29 Cuts of Lean Beef
July 22, 2015
Our entire beef community works daily to raise high quality beef (food) for American families. So, where does this all begin? The beef lifecycle begins on every cow/calf operation (farm/ranch) where the operations’ maintain a herd of Mother cows for raising beef calves.
First, cows (mature female cattle-Mothers) and bulls (intact mature male cattle-Daddys) are mated to raise calves (babies or young male and female cattle). During a 9 month (282 days) gestation period farmers/ranchers pay close attention to their Mother Cows, making sure there are no problems during their pregnancy. If any issues arise, farmers/ranchers or veterinarian (animal doctor) can step in to ensure the health and safety of Mother and baby.
Cows receive assistance from farmers/ranchers and often veterinarian during the birthing process. Which is also known as calving. Farmers/ranchers are there step by step. When a young calf is born, it weighs 60-100lbs depending on its parents genetics and just how well the Mother cows’ body preformed nutritionally during gestation. A new born calf will spend the first few months of life drinking its Mother’s milk and grazing or eating on large green grass pastures. Today, cattle are born and raised in almost every state in the USA on farms and ranches such as ours in Claiborne County Tennessee.
Animal Safety is an important priority. Its important for farmers/ranchers to be able to identify their cattle for the safety and security of their herd (a group of cows, bulls and calves). Some cattle farmers/ranchers use ear tags, (which is quite fashionable; for the girls to wear earrings) This will identify the animals with a number in their ear. Before beginning the weaning process, other calves may receive a custom brand; either by hot irons or freeze branding, so they are identifiable from a distance. The branding process does not cause any long term harm or pain to the cattle. Additionally, some ranchers in the western states are required by law to brand their cattle.
Before 4 months of age, the testicles are often removed from male calves being raised for beef, through a process called castration. Castration occurs because bulls display more aggressive behavior and can cause harm to other animals, farmers/ranchers, so removal of the testicles improves over-all safety for the animals and animals’ care takers. Removal is quick, low stress and the calves begin the healing process immediately, (much like when you cut your finger) The calf, following the process is now known as a steer.
Cattle with horns can cause injury to other cattle. For this reason, horns are removed in a process called dehorning. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends the cattle be dehorned at the earliest age possible, same as castration.
For these procedures (castration and dehorning) and others; education and tools are provided to farmers/ranchers to ensure proper cattle care (management). In 1987, the “Beef Quality Assurance” program was developed to ensure proper cattle care through each and every stage of the beef cattle lifecycle.
The lifecycle continues, at 6 to 10 months of age and approximately 500lbs, calves are ready to begin the weaning process. The calves are moved away from their mothers milk in order to graze on green grass pastures, where they eat grass and other forages that are indigestible to humans. The weaning process permits calves to become independent of their mothers milk so they continue to grow and thrive on the grass pasture.
After weaning is complete, the beef lifecycle continues. Many calves are purchased at livestock auction markets (our calves are marketed through the Hodge Livestock Network) by farmers/ranchers known as stockers or backgrounders. However, some calves (about 1 in 3 female calves) are kept on the farm. They are used for breeding animals or “mothers to be and the lifecyle begin all over again.
In every stage of the beef lifecycle, farmers are dedicated to the health and safety of their animals on the farm. Cow/calf operations are just the beginning o f how our beef community comes together to bring beef (food) from the farm to the American families dinner plate.
Following the stocker phase these mature calves move to the feedyard. Here they spend 6 months where they have access to fresh water and eat a balanced ration (eat or dieta0 from feed bunks. The cattle have room to move around in clean and comfortable lots.
Once the cattle reach a market weight of 12 to 1400 lbs at around 20 to 24 months of age they are sent to a harvest or processing facility. Here USDA inspectors (veterinarian) over see the safety, animal welfare and quality standards until the final product (meats) are shipped to restaurants and grocery stores. The grocery store and restaurant is where beef is sold to the American families for their dinner tables.
Now 5 Nutritional facts and related articles;
1. Today’s beef is leaner than ever before!
2 . It’s a great source of protein.
3. Its just as lean or leaner than chicken.
4. Beef can provide 10 essential nutrients.
5. Beef is a heart healthy food.
Related Articles:
The Power of Ten
Beef Quality Assurance
My Girls Wear Earrings
A Greener Tomorrow
Love That Lean Beef- 29 Cuts of Lean Beef
Angus Field Day
June 19, 2015
The sky was clear and sunshine bright as Jim Powell of Powell Farms in Limestone, Tennessee welcomed East Tennessee Angus Association ( 97 yrs. in Angus business ) for their annual field day and introducing Joe Beavers as Powell Farms Manager.
The Powell Farms were reorganized in 2012 and now consist of 380 owned and 150 rented acres, covered by some 300 cows and heifers.
Mike Brown, President of East Tn. Angus Assoc., kicked off a jam packed program with Alex Tolbert, American Angus Assoc. regional manager for Tn., Ky., and Ohio. Alex reported a good time to be in cattle business as angus bulls averaged $4898 for 2014.
Milford Jenkins from American Angus Foundation reported the foundation presented 82 scholarships worth $100,000.oo during 2014.
Genetics for today's cattlemen and women was discussed by Tonya Amen, director of genetics services for American Angus Assoc. Alan Thomas, field representative for Zoetis informed the crowd of the "Genomic Enhanced EPD's cooperative program.
Angus Hall of Fame president Tom Burke talked about a proper way to name Angus calves.
Carol McDonald, assistant commissioner of agriculture with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture reviewed the policy and legislation issues for Tennessee cattlemen.
Dr's Neal, Schrick and Justin Rhinehart from University of Tennessee Animal Science explained managing cattle reproduction for profitability. They used several reproductive tracts of cows and bulls harvested by Sara Orr from a local harvesting facility.
Ultrasound procedures employed by Powell Farms was discussed by Alex Dulaney, DVM. also, Mitch Parks, DVM. related the flush procedures for donor cows.
Farm tours of their grass and movement of cattle and portable shades utilized in their rotational grazing. One main attraction was 97 antique Farmall tractors on display.
A junior Angus show was held with some 30 juniors exhibiting their project animals.
I thought the field day was really good with much practical application for beef cattle farmers. I particularly enjoyed the fellowship with many old and new friends.
How Cattle Keep Stay Warm
Cattle and other livestock have a higher body temperature than humans at 98.6 vs. cattle at 102 degrees.
Cattle produce a thicker, heavier winter coat of hair and their hide (skin) is thicker. Lower critical temperature generally 32 degrees. The critical temperature requires that farmers/ranchers must provide additional feed as cattle's energy needs increase. Each degree below 32 degrees requires an increase of 1 percent more hay or feed. Heat is generated by digestion of hay. Grains can provide energy but hay digestion provides both energy and heat.
Cold stress is influenced by wind and rain, in addition to temperature. Cattle can seek shelter in groves of trees, behind hills or drawls that are lower area within pastures. Several farmers/ranchers stack large round bales of hay in the direction of prevailing winds thus providing wind breaks.
Another wind break is a fence line of trees.
Wind and rain together can create additional protection problems for shelter. Farmers/ranchers must keep constant daily watch for their cattle's protection.
Agriculture Associations
Folks, I believe a strong active membership is essential for our Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association and other agriculture producers organizations: Dairy, Pork, Corn, Soybean, and others to work on our behalf. We, American farmer/ranchers are continually facing many new issues:
Environmental, immigration, taxes, trade, governmental regulations and animal rights groups. Our Associations are protecting our best interests on many fronts, while we are busy raising food, fiber, fuel and shelter for a growing population.
The association is our voice and membership makes our voice stronger. I, personally, have witnessed and been apart of our Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association actions on several fronts: local farm events, field days, fairs: District conferences, producer meetings, youth activities; State conventions, beef promotions, legislative conferences; National: National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Convention, Washington D.C. legislative conferences and other activities.
It would be most difficult to describe or relate to each rancher/farmer all the benefits of Association membership besides a cap or truck tag. I believe in our Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association to support the cattle business on all levels and each producer segment.
An individual doesn't necessarily have to own cattle to be a member, just a desire to support agriculture, the cattle business and see new innovations develop.
By the way, I just happen to have several new membership applications for county, state and national associations on hand. I will be most happy to “snail mail” or hand deliver a copy for you and any neighbors, let me know. I would welcome the opportunity to make you a member of a strong, growing association.
Folks, I believe a strong active membership is essential for our Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association and other agriculture producers organizations: Dairy, Pork, Corn, Soybean, and others to work on our behalf. We, American farmer/ranchers are continually facing many new issues:
Environmental, immigration, taxes, trade, governmental regulations and animal rights groups. Our Associations are protecting our best interests on many fronts, while we are busy raising food, fiber, fuel and shelter for a growing population.
The association is our voice and membership makes our voice stronger. I, personally, have witnessed and been apart of our Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association actions on several fronts: local farm events, field days, fairs: District conferences, producer meetings, youth activities; State conventions, beef promotions, legislative conferences; National: National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Convention, Washington D.C. legislative conferences and other activities.
It would be most difficult to describe or relate to each rancher/farmer all the benefits of Association membership besides a cap or truck tag. I believe in our Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association to support the cattle business on all levels and each producer segment.
An individual doesn't necessarily have to own cattle to be a member, just a desire to support agriculture, the cattle business and see new innovations develop.
By the way, I just happen to have several new membership applications for county, state and national associations on hand. I will be most happy to “snail mail” or hand deliver a copy for you and any neighbors, let me know. I would welcome the opportunity to make you a member of a strong, growing association.
It's Convention Time In Tennessee
The 2015 Tennessee Cattlemen’s Convention offers Tennessee beef producers and livestock farmers the opportunity to “Catch Up” on latest information for their beef business. Occurring January 15-17 at Embassy Suites Hotel in Murfreesboro.
It has been a pleasure to watch TCA’s annual convention continue to grow over several years. Also, to be exposed, first hand, to many changes occurring throughout the beef industry. The beef business is continually improving care of their beef cattle while raising a safe, wholesome, nutritious beef for American families.
A new convention addition will be specific for cattlewomen and youth. These expanded activities will include: Scavenger hunts, quiz bowl, animal agriculture exposed, using social media to tell agricultures’ story and what are the FACCT’s and more.
The largest trade show by specific businesses supporting our beef industry is the opportunity to see and hear what’s new. It’s easy to visit with many of your suppliers under one roof. Also, visit fellow farmers all across Tennessee; these personal visits share information and experiences from the grass roots. How about bringing your employees along for the show??
Cow-College sessions offer up-to-date information on many items that influence the beef business beyond your farm gates. Learn new ideas for the beef industry and American families. I think those involved in Agriculture have a golden opportunity for the future, be it beef, dairy, swine, poultry, grains fruits or vegetables. The worlds’ families continue to demand quality foods.
More program information is available from Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association website and Tennessee Cattle Business Magazine. Registration information is available on/in both of these sources.
Don’t pass-up an opportunity to see, hear and be a part of Tennessee’s Premier Beef Convention and Trade Show. See ya-all in the ‘Boro.
The 2015 Tennessee Cattlemen’s Convention offers Tennessee beef producers and livestock farmers the opportunity to “Catch Up” on latest information for their beef business. Occurring January 15-17 at Embassy Suites Hotel in Murfreesboro.
It has been a pleasure to watch TCA’s annual convention continue to grow over several years. Also, to be exposed, first hand, to many changes occurring throughout the beef industry. The beef business is continually improving care of their beef cattle while raising a safe, wholesome, nutritious beef for American families.
A new convention addition will be specific for cattlewomen and youth. These expanded activities will include: Scavenger hunts, quiz bowl, animal agriculture exposed, using social media to tell agricultures’ story and what are the FACCT’s and more.
The largest trade show by specific businesses supporting our beef industry is the opportunity to see and hear what’s new. It’s easy to visit with many of your suppliers under one roof. Also, visit fellow farmers all across Tennessee; these personal visits share information and experiences from the grass roots. How about bringing your employees along for the show??
Cow-College sessions offer up-to-date information on many items that influence the beef business beyond your farm gates. Learn new ideas for the beef industry and American families. I think those involved in Agriculture have a golden opportunity for the future, be it beef, dairy, swine, poultry, grains fruits or vegetables. The worlds’ families continue to demand quality foods.
More program information is available from Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association website and Tennessee Cattle Business Magazine. Registration information is available on/in both of these sources.
Don’t pass-up an opportunity to see, hear and be a part of Tennessee’s Premier Beef Convention and Trade Show. See ya-all in the ‘Boro.
Sunshine Grows Grass for Feed
As our smiling John Deere finishes planting our corn crops its time for another job.. Harvesting grass for winter feed/food for cows and calves. The grass is harvested much like your yard grass is mowed.
Harvesting a quality hay (dried grass) around the first or middle of May for cattle feed requires attention to several details: Grass maturity, weather, harvest equipment and storage. These details contribute to the nutritional value of hay being used for feeding our cattle. The quality of grass is never higher than as a young leafy plant. The plant has a greater protein content and is more digestible for cattle. Should we harvest grass as a large stem with seed heads the nutritional value will be reduced, thus requiring more hay to be used for feeding cattle. We try to harvest grass as a leafy plant with as much nutrition as possible. As harvest nears, we check the weather forecast as two, preferably three days, of warm sunshine are needed to dry the grass for safe storage.
We mow/harvest grass using a red “Heston Haybine”. The haybine mows grass and crimps blades and stems to let moisture escape for quicker drying. The crimping occurs as the grass goes between two rollers, just before being placed on the ground to finish drying. Grass..now called hay dried quickly retains quality, having mor nutrients to keep cattle strong and healthy. When we have finished mowing our hay, we generally stir the hay with a “tedder”. The tedder gently fluffs the hay allowing more warm air to flow through the hay to aid in the drying and preserve nutrients. The hay drying process generally takes one really warm day following the mowing and tedding jobs.
The morning of the third day as morning dew dries. John Deere is attached to our New Holland roll-bar rake. The rotary rake gathers hay into long continuous windrows. These are much like spaghetti only larger and longer.
When we finish raking our hay, smiling John Deere is attached to a yellow “Vemeer” baler to gather hay into large round bales. These large round bales generally weigh 1000 to 1200 lbs each. On bale will generally feed 35 cows on day. Each cow needs 28-32 pounds of hay each day to supply her energy and nutritional requirements.
We must harvest and store 120-150 large round bales of hay to feed our cows through the winter feeding period. The winter feeding begins in late November or early December continuing through late March or early April. Depending on the length of winter when spring grass begins to grow for another year.
We had good rains and growing conditions this year, thus we were able to take a 2nd harvest of hay in July and are In the process of harvesting hay for a third time in late September.
We always try to have several bales of extra, as those cows get really unhappy should we fail to have enough feed. Sorta like we are if we have to go without eating.
The bales of hay are stored inside barns as much as possible to reduce losses. Those stored outside are stored in rows north to South and off the ground using old truck tires form my brothers trucking days. If the hay is left on the ground a large part can deteriorate.
As our smiling John Deere finishes planting our corn crops its time for another job.. Harvesting grass for winter feed/food for cows and calves. The grass is harvested much like your yard grass is mowed.
Harvesting a quality hay (dried grass) around the first or middle of May for cattle feed requires attention to several details: Grass maturity, weather, harvest equipment and storage. These details contribute to the nutritional value of hay being used for feeding our cattle. The quality of grass is never higher than as a young leafy plant. The plant has a greater protein content and is more digestible for cattle. Should we harvest grass as a large stem with seed heads the nutritional value will be reduced, thus requiring more hay to be used for feeding cattle. We try to harvest grass as a leafy plant with as much nutrition as possible. As harvest nears, we check the weather forecast as two, preferably three days, of warm sunshine are needed to dry the grass for safe storage.
We mow/harvest grass using a red “Heston Haybine”. The haybine mows grass and crimps blades and stems to let moisture escape for quicker drying. The crimping occurs as the grass goes between two rollers, just before being placed on the ground to finish drying. Grass..now called hay dried quickly retains quality, having mor nutrients to keep cattle strong and healthy. When we have finished mowing our hay, we generally stir the hay with a “tedder”. The tedder gently fluffs the hay allowing more warm air to flow through the hay to aid in the drying and preserve nutrients. The hay drying process generally takes one really warm day following the mowing and tedding jobs.
The morning of the third day as morning dew dries. John Deere is attached to our New Holland roll-bar rake. The rotary rake gathers hay into long continuous windrows. These are much like spaghetti only larger and longer.
When we finish raking our hay, smiling John Deere is attached to a yellow “Vemeer” baler to gather hay into large round bales. These large round bales generally weigh 1000 to 1200 lbs each. On bale will generally feed 35 cows on day. Each cow needs 28-32 pounds of hay each day to supply her energy and nutritional requirements.
We must harvest and store 120-150 large round bales of hay to feed our cows through the winter feeding period. The winter feeding begins in late November or early December continuing through late March or early April. Depending on the length of winter when spring grass begins to grow for another year.
We had good rains and growing conditions this year, thus we were able to take a 2nd harvest of hay in July and are In the process of harvesting hay for a third time in late September.
We always try to have several bales of extra, as those cows get really unhappy should we fail to have enough feed. Sorta like we are if we have to go without eating.
The bales of hay are stored inside barns as much as possible to reduce losses. Those stored outside are stored in rows north to South and off the ground using old truck tires form my brothers trucking days. If the hay is left on the ground a large part can deteriorate.
/uploads/1/8/9/9/18991133/marketing.docx/uploads/1/8/9/9/18991133/factors_impacting_current_beef_cattle_market_2015.docxExplaining Agriculture
The displays and personal contacts during Sevier County Fair and Beef Days celebration attracted several courteous families. They ask many questions on “what do we do” and “How do we care-for livestock” on the farm. I was enjoyable to represent Agriculture during these events and talk with these families.
It wasn’t the easiest job that has been undertaken, to explain our jobs to someone, not aquatinted with agriculture, why we do what we do to raise food for their dinner table. These families are/were looking for a way to understand agriculture.
Several of our agriculture jobs and management practices are described on our web-site Agriculture at its Best. These are some of the items that were discussed or described during conversations with these families. The web-site pages are:
Farmers Corner Stall:
1. Mowing and Growing
2. Our Farms Corn Planting Time
3. Our Farms Corn Crop Update
4. Marketing
5. Sometimes We are Mean to our Cows
6. Life Saving 1 and 2
7. More Docile Cattle
8. Are you Ready
9. Grass Tetany
10. My Girls Wear Ear Rings
11. Neutering
Things You Want to Know/Mike”s Thoughts
1. Life Saving 1 and 2
2. Beef Quality Assurance
3. Stewardship for a Greener Tomorrow
4. Earth Day
5. Cover Crop Saga
6. Government Regulations
Our Land
1. Junior Livestock Shows Are They Worth It?
The displays and personal contacts during Sevier County Fair and Beef Days celebration attracted several courteous families. They ask many questions on “what do we do” and “How do we care-for livestock” on the farm. I was enjoyable to represent Agriculture during these events and talk with these families.
It wasn’t the easiest job that has been undertaken, to explain our jobs to someone, not aquatinted with agriculture, why we do what we do to raise food for their dinner table. These families are/were looking for a way to understand agriculture.
Several of our agriculture jobs and management practices are described on our web-site Agriculture at its Best. These are some of the items that were discussed or described during conversations with these families. The web-site pages are:
Farmers Corner Stall:
1. Mowing and Growing
2. Our Farms Corn Planting Time
3. Our Farms Corn Crop Update
4. Marketing
5. Sometimes We are Mean to our Cows
6. Life Saving 1 and 2
7. More Docile Cattle
8. Are you Ready
9. Grass Tetany
10. My Girls Wear Ear Rings
11. Neutering
Things You Want to Know/Mike”s Thoughts
1. Life Saving 1 and 2
2. Beef Quality Assurance
3. Stewardship for a Greener Tomorrow
4. Earth Day
5. Cover Crop Saga
6. Government Regulations
Our Land
1. Junior Livestock Shows Are They Worth It?
Livestock Trace-ability Rule
Tennessee’s Department of Agriculture (TDA) is increasing efforts to inform livestock farmers and markets about the final “Animal Disease Trace-ability” (ADT) rule that requires identification of livestock being transported across state lines- interstate.
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) rule went into effect last year (2013) and provides an effective method of tracing the movement of livestock for animal disease protection and response.
The federal rule (USDA) only applies to livestock being moved “interstate”, and it’s important that Tennessee farmers work closely with their local veterinarians to obtain proper documentation. TDA wants to ensure Tennessee farmers continue to have access to markets and that TDA can move quickly to limit the spread of a disease, if there is an outbreak.
The ADT rule requires livestock moved interstate, unless specifically exempted, to be officially identified and have an interstate certificate or veterinary inspection (health papers) or other documentation, such as owner-shipper statements or brand certificates. The ADT rule applies to all livestock cattle horses, sheep, goats, swine and poultry.
Brands, tattoos and brand registration can also be used as official identification when accepted by shipping and receiving states. Backtags are accepted as an alternative to official eartags for cattle moving directly to slaughter or harvest.
TDA will conduct routine compliance checks of livestock being transported beginning in 2015 following a period of outreach to farmers, market owners/operators, veterinaries and other stakeholders.
As TDA works with other states and USDA to improve trace-ability efforts, TDA wants Tennessee livestock farmers to be prepared for this important change.
Animal health documentation is still required by Tennessee under certain circumstances for livestock being moved within Tennessee. Some states have requirements that “go beyond” the federal/USDA rule. Farmers should make sure that livestock moving interstate also comply with the receiving states requirements, check with your local veterinarian for these requirements.
The TDA is working to implement a user-friendly on lime system that has been adopted by 20 other states that will allow private veterinarians to submit and access documents electronically I order to help compliance. Check with your local veterinarian for these requirements or contact TDA at 615-837-5120.
Tennessee’s Department of Agriculture (TDA) is increasing efforts to inform livestock farmers and markets about the final “Animal Disease Trace-ability” (ADT) rule that requires identification of livestock being transported across state lines- interstate.
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) rule went into effect last year (2013) and provides an effective method of tracing the movement of livestock for animal disease protection and response.
The federal rule (USDA) only applies to livestock being moved “interstate”, and it’s important that Tennessee farmers work closely with their local veterinarians to obtain proper documentation. TDA wants to ensure Tennessee farmers continue to have access to markets and that TDA can move quickly to limit the spread of a disease, if there is an outbreak.
The ADT rule requires livestock moved interstate, unless specifically exempted, to be officially identified and have an interstate certificate or veterinary inspection (health papers) or other documentation, such as owner-shipper statements or brand certificates. The ADT rule applies to all livestock cattle horses, sheep, goats, swine and poultry.
Brands, tattoos and brand registration can also be used as official identification when accepted by shipping and receiving states. Backtags are accepted as an alternative to official eartags for cattle moving directly to slaughter or harvest.
TDA will conduct routine compliance checks of livestock being transported beginning in 2015 following a period of outreach to farmers, market owners/operators, veterinaries and other stakeholders.
As TDA works with other states and USDA to improve trace-ability efforts, TDA wants Tennessee livestock farmers to be prepared for this important change.
Animal health documentation is still required by Tennessee under certain circumstances for livestock being moved within Tennessee. Some states have requirements that “go beyond” the federal/USDA rule. Farmers should make sure that livestock moving interstate also comply with the receiving states requirements, check with your local veterinarian for these requirements.
The TDA is working to implement a user-friendly on lime system that has been adopted by 20 other states that will allow private veterinarians to submit and access documents electronically I order to help compliance. Check with your local veterinarian for these requirements or contact TDA at 615-837-5120.
How High Can We Go?
The current beef cattle market appears destine to set new record higher prices for calves, cows, and finished cattle each week. That’s been the trend during the past three months as indicated by market reports.
These market trends have been a pleasant surprise for most farmers/ranchers, but there is a limit our there somewhere and who knows just where that limit lies? Where does the trend slow, stop or begin to reverse it’s self?
The USDA’s mid-year cattle report continues to indicate a tight cattle supply for sometime in the future. Beef cows are at 29.7 million head down 3% form 7-1-2012, Beef replacement heifers are at 4.1 million head down 2% from 2012. There was no mid-year cattle report for 2013 due to the government shut down.
The 2014 calf crop estimate at 33.6 million head is down 1% from 2013 and down 2% from 2012.
This years calf crop for the first six months of 2014 is at 24.3 million head. That is down 2% from 2013 and 3% from 2012.
Just a bit of history in comparison to 1995 with a total cattle inventory of 114.3 of 114.3 million head; Beef cows at 37.2 million head; replacement heifers at 5.7 million head and a total calf crop at 41.5 million head that year.
We are definitely in un-charted waters as far as cattle prices and numbers (inventory) are concerned. Last week (7-25-2014) finished cattle were quoted at $165.00/cwt (per hundred pounds) and calf prices were breaking $300.00/cwt These prices are exciting to say the least. It was reported a group of 600 head of Waygu calves at 435 lbs commanded a price of 402.50/cwt. I was at a sale previously when cattle prices were reaching records and a farmer remarked, “I had to pinch myself to see if I was still alive, whee Eee.”
I am by-far no economist but enjoy the good times while they last and be cautiously optimistic for continued success. That being, for my wife to continue to purchase beef at the grocery store. She is definitely becoming more selective, and farmers/ranchers are faced with “hold’em or sell’em”.
The current beef cattle market appears destine to set new record higher prices for calves, cows, and finished cattle each week. That’s been the trend during the past three months as indicated by market reports.
These market trends have been a pleasant surprise for most farmers/ranchers, but there is a limit our there somewhere and who knows just where that limit lies? Where does the trend slow, stop or begin to reverse it’s self?
The USDA’s mid-year cattle report continues to indicate a tight cattle supply for sometime in the future. Beef cows are at 29.7 million head down 3% form 7-1-2012, Beef replacement heifers are at 4.1 million head down 2% from 2012. There was no mid-year cattle report for 2013 due to the government shut down.
The 2014 calf crop estimate at 33.6 million head is down 1% from 2013 and down 2% from 2012.
This years calf crop for the first six months of 2014 is at 24.3 million head. That is down 2% from 2013 and 3% from 2012.
Just a bit of history in comparison to 1995 with a total cattle inventory of 114.3 of 114.3 million head; Beef cows at 37.2 million head; replacement heifers at 5.7 million head and a total calf crop at 41.5 million head that year.
We are definitely in un-charted waters as far as cattle prices and numbers (inventory) are concerned. Last week (7-25-2014) finished cattle were quoted at $165.00/cwt (per hundred pounds) and calf prices were breaking $300.00/cwt These prices are exciting to say the least. It was reported a group of 600 head of Waygu calves at 435 lbs commanded a price of 402.50/cwt. I was at a sale previously when cattle prices were reaching records and a farmer remarked, “I had to pinch myself to see if I was still alive, whee Eee.”
I am by-far no economist but enjoy the good times while they last and be cautiously optimistic for continued success. That being, for my wife to continue to purchase beef at the grocery store. She is definitely becoming more selective, and farmers/ranchers are faced with “hold’em or sell’em”.
My Girls Wear Ear Rings
Yes! My girls (momma cows) have worn ear rings (ear tags) for many years. Also these girls’ calves (children) wear ear rings and tattoos. However these ear rings and tattoos aren’t as elaborate as those we may observe at local malls or big box stores today. Over the years I have tagged and tattooed many cows, bulls and even more calves. Cattle identification is a tough job, that’s why my cow, bulls and calves wear ear rings (ear tags) and tattoos. These are two methods of identification, much like our own personal names (Alice, Mary, John and Joe) but instead I use numbers for mu cattle’s names. My calves are tagged at birth so that I can identify cows and calves as mother and child. I have selected a yellow tag with black numbers; this combination of colors is hard to beat in terms of being seen and able to read. There is a wide variety of colored tags at any farm supply store to choose, your choice. Why tattoos you may ask? Have you ever last an ear ring? My cattle (cows, bulls, and calves) often loose their ear tags and these tattoos are permanent numbers placed inside their ears that allows me to replace the correct tag number in their ear tag. These permanent numbers of identification allow me to establish permanent records for my cows, bulls, and calves. These permanent records are much like a permanent record at school, doctors and dentist offices for ourselves. Permanent records establish birth dates and parents names much like birth certificates; “Health Record” establish immunization for different diseases or sickness prevention; “medication records” establish which medicines were given to aid in sickness recovery; “Production records” establish growth, how much weigh calves gain over a period of time giving me an indication of just how will the cows are cared for their calves; “Temperament records” establish just how well behaved the animals were. I do not want rodeo or mean type cows, bulls or calves as I can get injured too easy being around the cattle. I ear tag my boy calves (bulls) in the right ear and girl calves (heifers) in the left ear. This step helps reduce stress on the calves when its time to separate the sexes. I use fly tags from may thus September to assist in controlling several types of flies that annoy my cattle. These ear tags and tattoos assist in management (caring for) the cattle and identification improves record keeping. Also if someone ask I can show the records for my cattle Thus I have established a reputation for the cattle. Other Articles You may like: 1 Beef Quality Assurance 2 More Docile Cattle 3 Life Saving 1 and 2 |
Neutering!!?
Castration of young bull (male) calves is an essential management practice on our beef cattle farm. We try to carry out this practice when our bull calves are young, preferably from birth to 4 weeks of age.
You may ask, what is castration? It is the removal of the primary sex organ (testicles). The bull calf is referred to as a steer following the operation. The procedure is much the same as when you neuter your male dog.
Why at such a young age? When the bull calves (now steers) are with their mothers (cows) the stress of the operation is greatly reduced.
Why castrate young bull calves? It is a three prong management decision:
1 We do not wish our young female calves (heifers) bred or impregnated by their brothers
2 The social problems, temperament and rowdy or aggressive behavior by a group of bull calves is greatly reduced
3 The American family consumer prefers a consistent, palatable and flavor-able beef product as produced by steer calves.
The beef produced by bull calves lacks the flavor, tenderness and marbling as beef produced from steer calves.
We castrate young bull calves using an elastrator when they are 1-4 weeks old. The elastrator is a bloodless as it does not break the skin.
If the bull calves are 1 to 2 months old we use a knife. If a knife is used we treat the wound area with a fly repellant and antibiotics to prevent infection and assist in healing.
However, not all bull calves are castrated. The calves with superior genetics are kept for breeding and raising improved beef.
Trich
Trichomoniasis or Trich is a sexually transmitted disease of cattle, primarily bulls. Trich is a highly contagious venereal disease in cattle that is carried by the bull and transmitted to the cow during breeding. Trich causes pregnancy loss or abortion I the cow, prolonged or delayed calving interual and high open rates in infected herds. An infected bull can quickly spread the disease to cows within the herd.
To reduce the spread of Trich, several states have adopted specific rules and regulations concerning importing of breeding bulls from other states, including Tennessee. Twenty-five states, mostly in the west, but Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee are the only eastern states to adopt specific rules and regulations on the sale and importing bulls at this time.
A “virgin bull” , 18 months or younger that has not been sexually exposed to breeding age females- cows or heifers is not likely to carry the disease. However, can farmers and ranchers be 100% positive these younger bulls have not been exposed?
Older bulls, once exposed or infected are infected for life. There are presently no legal methods to cure the disease from infected bulls. The infected bull must go to slaughter.
There is a new program, Older bulls can be certified Trich negative by a series of tests conducted by an approved veterinarian. These bulls must be sexually rested for a period of time. The PCR test requires 30 days and involves three tests, one week apart. The three consecutive test must be negative for the veterinarian to certify the bull Trich negative.
The cow can and should be tested following repeat breedings or is a calf is aborted. However, the cows immune system will recognize Trich as a foreign material and can clear herself of the disease organism over a period of 40 days. If not re-infected by breeding bulls. The bull’s immune system CAN NOT clear himself of the disease organism.
To avoid introducing Trich into your beef herd, DO NOT: Borrow a bull, loan a bull, lease a bull or purchase a stockyard bull. Require a negative Trich test by an approved veterinarian on any bull purchased for breeding purposes. Especially, if that bull has been exposed to other bulls or cows. Any co-mingling bull, cow or heifer should be tested for your protection. Any un-tested breeding bull can bring problems to the farm, involve your herd health veterinarian.
Presently, as of April 2014, there have been three positive testing bulls found in Tennessee. These bulls were imported from other states. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture and State Veterinarian Office are evaluating bull at various slaughter facilities across Tennessee in attempts to determine and evaluate the Tennessee Trich situation.
I am not a veterinarian. These are my thoughts from reading several professional journals and attending several meetings where the Trich situation was thoroughly discussed.
Trichomoniasis or Trich is a sexually transmitted disease of cattle, primarily bulls. Trich is a highly contagious venereal disease in cattle that is carried by the bull and transmitted to the cow during breeding. Trich causes pregnancy loss or abortion I the cow, prolonged or delayed calving interual and high open rates in infected herds. An infected bull can quickly spread the disease to cows within the herd.
To reduce the spread of Trich, several states have adopted specific rules and regulations concerning importing of breeding bulls from other states, including Tennessee. Twenty-five states, mostly in the west, but Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee are the only eastern states to adopt specific rules and regulations on the sale and importing bulls at this time.
A “virgin bull” , 18 months or younger that has not been sexually exposed to breeding age females- cows or heifers is not likely to carry the disease. However, can farmers and ranchers be 100% positive these younger bulls have not been exposed?
Older bulls, once exposed or infected are infected for life. There are presently no legal methods to cure the disease from infected bulls. The infected bull must go to slaughter.
There is a new program, Older bulls can be certified Trich negative by a series of tests conducted by an approved veterinarian. These bulls must be sexually rested for a period of time. The PCR test requires 30 days and involves three tests, one week apart. The three consecutive test must be negative for the veterinarian to certify the bull Trich negative.
The cow can and should be tested following repeat breedings or is a calf is aborted. However, the cows immune system will recognize Trich as a foreign material and can clear herself of the disease organism over a period of 40 days. If not re-infected by breeding bulls. The bull’s immune system CAN NOT clear himself of the disease organism.
To avoid introducing Trich into your beef herd, DO NOT: Borrow a bull, loan a bull, lease a bull or purchase a stockyard bull. Require a negative Trich test by an approved veterinarian on any bull purchased for breeding purposes. Especially, if that bull has been exposed to other bulls or cows. Any co-mingling bull, cow or heifer should be tested for your protection. Any un-tested breeding bull can bring problems to the farm, involve your herd health veterinarian.
Presently, as of April 2014, there have been three positive testing bulls found in Tennessee. These bulls were imported from other states. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture and State Veterinarian Office are evaluating bull at various slaughter facilities across Tennessee in attempts to determine and evaluate the Tennessee Trich situation.
I am not a veterinarian. These are my thoughts from reading several professional journals and attending several meetings where the Trich situation was thoroughly discussed.
Black Vultures
This maybe something a bit different but a piece of information many area farmers and beef cattle raisers may need.
Any farmer who has sustained losses of livestock (cows or calves) due to this protected bird species or natural disasters such as lightening maybe eligible for compensation.
The last farm bill disaster program includes a section for livestock indemnity payments. Farmers must provide documentation of losses due to “Black” vultures or natural disasters from the periods of 10-01-2011 - 1-1-2015 to their local FSA (Farm Service Agency) office.
Farmer documentation may include: cell phone pictures, veterinarian records, statement from rendering pick up service, personal cattle inventories.
Several “Black Vultures” have been observed, and at first thought they are buzzards or scavengers. The only similarities are they both are black.
Farmers should check with their FSA office to be sure of details and records required.
Wild Hogs A Nuisance
These animals are wide spread all across the United States. The hogs are very adaptable to any habitat. They can live and do live from the snowy north to sunny beaches and desert south. There seems to be no place they can’t live, water maybe the only limitation.
What do they eat? Hogs will eat anything they can catch, or get in their mouth: Agriculture crops corn, soybeans, fruits and vegetables; other wildlife, garbage, potential young livestock calves and lambs.
What damage? They do extensive damage to farmer’s crops by eating and rooting. Have you ever observed a field that farmers have plowed in preparation for raising a crop? I have observed damages in the Cades Cove area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the area looked as if it had just been plowed to destroy all vegetation growth.
How do these hogs expand their area? One way is by natural migration but many wild agencies think expansion is by man. People are trapping hogs and moving these hogs to new areas to establish hunting. Transporting hogs is a number one problem. Tennessee presently has a year round open hunting season for wild hogs. Kansas and Nebraska has made hunting wild hog’s illegal, thus reducing the reason to transport hogs into these states. The control measures are limited and several are being considered and evaluated for reducing hog spread and damage.
The wild hogs are rather prolific and are sexually mature at an early age (5-6 months). A sow (female hog) can raise two litters (groups of bay pigs) every 14-15 months. Wildlife agencies estimate that 4 to 6 of these pigs will survive to a year of age. Thus the pigs have the ability to double in numbers within a year. That’s better than rabbits, from an ole saying, they can multiply faster than rabbits.
Diet= Anything. Damage=intensive. Habitat=anywhere. Reproduction=fast. Mortality=only predator appears to be man.
The wild hogs can and will wreck and reek havoc anywhere they become established- forest land, farm land and urban areas.
Grass Tetany
Technical terminology from Merk Veterinary Manual 9th edition defines a complex metabolic disturbance by hypo magnesium, a reduction in the blood. We are talking about a condition in cattle known as “Grass Tetany” or “Grass Staggers”.
Grass Tetany does occur mainly in a cow and or heifer in early lactation (shortly after giving birth) when grazing lush, early spring grass pastures. The effected cows or heifers are often the heavy milking group being the most susceptible. Also, other conditions may influence the problem such as sail fertility and weather.
Magnesium absorption may be reduced when potassium (potash) and nitrogen intakes are high and sodium and phosphorus intakes are early fertilization of grasses or soils that are naturally high in fertility. Also, cool, cloudy and rainy conditions that are favorable for cool season grasses (fescue) or small grain pastures (wheat, oats, rye) to grow rather quickly, thus absorbing less magnesium from the soil.
Most generally grass tetany occurs in the spring due to conditions being more favorable for rapid grass growth. However it could happen at other times during the year. Sometimes fall conditions are favorable for quick grass growth.
Many times the symptoms are finding a dead cow in the pasture with signs of struggling on the ground around the head and legs. It’s already past time to consult your herd health veterinarian, but a correct diagnosis may prevent future losses.
Traditionally farmers have supplemented cattle with “High Mag” blocks- ever try getting a drink of water from a block of ice- its hard for cattle to consume enough from the blocks to meet their needs. The cattle need a daily intake of magnesium because their body does not store a reserve supply.
A loose, free-choice mineral mix will aid cows to consume the desired amount of grain with magnesium oxide. The magnesium oxide is not very tasty so it needs to be mixed with a tasty feed.
Always check with your herd health veterinarian for specific recommendations. It’s not too early to begin.
A New Bug Among Us
These bugs are small and can be rather scary by their numbers. The real potential for an invasion occurs once in the spring and another in the fall by the “kudzu bug”. Some describe the kudzu bug as a lady bug on steroids with few matural enemies.
Generally these bugs feed on kudzu vines but also likes another East Asian transplant to the Southeast, soybeans. A love/hate relationship can develop, depending upon which plant you have kudzu or soybeans.
The kudzu bug, in just a few years (3-4), has spread across several states; Georgia, North and South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee. The current center of damage to soybean crops appears in Georgia, South Carolina and Mississippi.
Field scouting is an effective method for determining control measures. Adult kudzu bugs can continually enter field for a period of 4 to 6 weeks. Control measures (spraying) too early can be ineffective due to late arrivals. When scouting for these bugs, be aware of economic threshold levels. Hold off spraying until 1 kudzu bug nymph per weep or 5 adult bugs per plant are found. When 1 nymph (an immature bug) per sweep is found that’s a good indication the adult population has peaked and control measures will be effective.
The most common insecticides are rather effective control measures, if spray coverage is good. Coverage when soybeans are small are effective. However, as soybean canopy develops, it becomes more difficult to get good coverage where the kudzu bug feeds. This is why careful, effective field scouting is important. The bugs feed mainly on stems and petioles with piercing, sucking mouth parts.
The kudzu bugs are brown to olive green, sometimes so dark in color they appear to be black, pea sized about a quarter inch in diameter and barrel to oval shaped. These bugs appear to reproduce rather well and can really fly well, plus being really good hitch hikers on many vehicles.
Be on the look out!!
Antibiotic Resistance:
Should I Be Concerned?
During the past several weeks/months I have researched the topic of antibiotic resistance. The following two articles Antibiotic Resistance: Should I Be Concerned? from the University of Nebraska, How Are Antibiotics used in Cattle? What Room is There For Improvement? by Ryan Goodman from Montana Stockgrowers Association.
These 2 articles sum up or explain the topic rather well. Also, they offer several references at the conclusion of each article. I realize these are rather long but its not an easy subject to cover.
Other Must Read Articles:
Much A Do About Nothing- GMO fact and opinion /uploads/1/8/9/9/18991133/gmo_editorial_comments.doc
Beef Quality Assurance
Antibiotic Resistance
By Phil Reid: purduephil.wordpress.com/2014/03/06/antibiotic-resistance-should-i-be-concerned/
Antibiotic resistance: Should I be concerned? Whenever antibiotics are needed and used, whether for livestock or humans, they need to be administered judiciously with great responsibility.
Lindsay Chichester – UNL Extension Educator and Dr. Dee Griffin - Feedlot Production Management Veterinarian and Professor at Great Plains Veterinary and Educational Center
Many people are concerned about antibiotic resistance. What is antibiotic resistance? Antibiotic resistance occurs when an antibiotic loses its ability to effectively control or kill certain bacterial growth. Why is this concerning? The bacteria become “resistant” to an antibiotic and will multiply. The next time illness occurs (in human or animal); it may take a different antibiotic or a stronger dose of an antibiotic to control the bacterial infection.
Whenever antibiotics are needed and used, whether for livestock or humans, they need to be administered judiciously with great responsibility. In many cases, when an animal becomes ill enough to need an antibiotic, it is a matter of life and death for that animal. If the animal does not receive the antibiotic it will suffer and may die. So it is the responsibility of the livestock producer to ensure an animal receives a quick diagnosis and the proper treatment.
South Dakota State University Extension put together a nice antibiotic fact sheet (http://www.sdstate.edu/vs/extension/beef-procedures-antibiotics.cfm). Antibiotics are given to people and animals to treat or prevent illnesses caused by bacteria. Antibiotics are given to livestock to relieve the pain and/or distress from the illness, to make them feel better, and recover. Just like with people, antibiotics have no effect on diseases caused by viruses or parasites. Antibiotics can be administered several ways, including an injection under the skin, via a pill (bolus), or mixed in the feed or water. When an animal is very sick an inject able antibiotic is the quickest route to get the animal on the road to recovery. It should also be mentioned that if animals are sick, they don’t feel like eating or drinking, so mixing an antibiotic into the feed or water is not always effective. All livestock antibiotics approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) since 1988 require a prescription from a veterinarian who has developed a relationship with the livestock producer and can help determine the best options for disease prevention and treatment.
A common myth is that antibiotics are mixed into ALL livestock rations. That is untrue. There are certain times in an animal’s life when things are more stressful, and antibiotics in the feed can make good sense. For example, if animals are co-mingled at a young age they are more likely to transmit bacteria back and forth (just like kids at daycare or in a school classroom). It is hard on their bodies, and being sick can take a toll on their health and make recovery harder. Also, weaning is a stressful time on animals. High levels of stress often result in a weakened and susceptible immune system which increases the probability of bacterial infections. Weather conditions may also take a toll on livestock. Extreme fluctuations in temperature and the inability to get dry or warm can result in illness or pneumonia. Finally, as an animal approaches its final weight, antibiotics may be fed to help prevent liver abscesses, which may be caused from a high ration of grain in the diet.
The use of antibiotics in feed or water is at the discretion of the livestock producers, their veterinarians, and nutritionists. Some beef producers do not feed antibiotics during these times of stress, and will just treat animals that may get sick, and some may treat all the animals to keep them all healthy. Also, animals that are fed for a niche market (i.e. organic, naturally raised, or no antibiotics used systems) will not have received an antibiotic (in these programs if they receive an antibiotic, then they are completely removed from the program). Geographically, there are some locations in the U.S. (Midwest – Iowa and Eastern Nebraska, South Texas, and Desert Southwest – Arizona and California) that feed fewer antibiotics in the feed because of a diet higher in roughages and fewer fluctuations in weather. There is no right or wrong method; each beef producer weighs the advantages and disadvantages of the cost (antibiotics are expensive to manufacture and purchase), labor, time, efficiency, withdrawal period, and animal’s health to make a decision that is best. Animals from some backgrounds can handle stress better than others and may never get sick, while others may get sick multiple times.
A withdrawal date or time is the amount of time that must pass after an animal has received an antibiotic to the time when that animal or the products it produces can be consumed. This is measured in days, and is taken very seriously by persons involved in food production. A withdrawal date or time will vary depending on the medication; these dates are set by the FDA. The livestock industry has programs in place by species (beef, swine, sheep, dairy, etc.) for livestock producers designed to enhance and reinforce proper animal care practices, recordkeeping, and the responsible and judicious use of antibiotics.
When would antibiotics be included in the feed?
Liver abscesses can be associated with grain intake and consumption. These high energy diets require intense feeding management and can be associated with acidosis. A liver abscess can be caused when cattle have an episode of acidosis. Acidosis is the most common nutritional disorder in the feedlot and can occur when cattle are fed a high amount of grain in a short time, or when cattle overeat (regardless of the feedstuff). This results in the production of more lactic acid than can be buffered by the rumen and water from the circulatory system is drawn into the rumen, resulting in a change in pH. Dr. Dee Griffin, DVM, says there are many reasons cattle overeat, but one of the more common reasons is a decrease in barometric pressure. Cattle can sense a storm coming and will eat more than usual. If that diet is high in energy (i.e. grain) it may result in an acidosis event. Dr. Griffin says that when the pH in the rumen falls below five, certain bacteria can cross the rumen into the liver resulting in a liver abscess. To help control the abscesses, an antibiotic called Tylan can be fed to cattle in their feed. Dr. Griffin and feedlot nutritionists estimate that at least 75% of cattle in feedlots are fed Tylan. Tylan helps reduce liver abscesses by 40-70%. As mentioned above, this is an individual beef producer’s decision.
Many people point the finger of antibiotic resistance blame at the agricultural industry, but there are many other factors that should be considered. First, the overuse and abuse of antibiotics by humans should be discussed. Antibiotics can be obtained over the internet and in some countries without a prescription, leaving people to self-dose and self-medicate. Additionally, persons may take antibiotics for viral infections, like the common cold, when they are not effective. People may also contribute to this problem by not completing a course of antibiotics. They may stop when they feel better or save part of the dosage to decrease expenses associated with a doctor visit and prescription. By not completing a prescribed dose of antibiotics, you are not effectively killing the bacteria that are causing the infection; the bacteria that were not killed have become stronger and in turn resistant to that antibiotic at that level and duration of dosage. Finally, we live in an antibacterial society. How many people have antibacterial hand sanitizer, antibacterial soaps and lotions, antibacterial wipes, etc. at home/work? Each time these are used they may kill some bacteria, but the bacteria that are not killed become stronger and more resistant. So take a moment to ponder how you may be contributing to antibiotic resistance on a personal level.
Who monitors antibiotic and drug use in livestock?
All antibiotics used to treat animals have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA is responsible for protecting public health by assuring the safety, efficacy and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical devices, our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation. FDA is also responsible for advancing the public health by helping to speed innovations that make medicines more effective, safer, and more affordable and by helping the public get the accurate, science-based information they need to use medicines and foods to maintain and improve their health.
Did you know that the Food Safety and Inspection Service National Residue Program (FSIS NRP) (yes, there is an entire division dedicated to monitoring drug resistance!!) tests all domestic and international meat, milk, and egg products for antibiotic residue? The U.S. government says that NO (meaning zero tolerance) beef (as well as other species including pork, poultry, etc.) with antibiotic residues exceeding the FDA standards will be allowed in the food supply!
Dr. Dee Griffin, DVM, says that in addition to these samples, a USDA veterinarian will take samples of “suspicious” animals at the packing plant. “Suspicious” animals may include animals with a disease lesion, or animals that look like they have been treated for illness recently. If the tissue from these animals tests positive for drug residue the carcass will be condemned and NOT allowed in the food supply. In 2012 approximately 200,000 tissue samples were taken from beef alone and less than 1,000 tested positive for a residue. That is one half of one percent testing positive for a residue from the animals the government inspectors targeted as having a high risk of having a violative residue. While we hope to get that number to zero someday, is it important that testing is occurring, and those that do test positive are being condemned and not allowed into the food chain.
The Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) regulates the manufacture and distribution of food additives and drugs that will be given to animals. These include animals from which human foods are derived, as well as food additives and drugs for pet (or companion) animals. The CVM is also responsible for regulating drugs, devices, and food additives given to, or used on, over one hundred million companion animals, plus millions of poultry, cattle, swine, and minor animal species.
Have you ever heard of the Generic Animal Drug and Patent Restoration Act? This Act requires that each sponsor of an approved animal drug must submit to the FDA certain information regarding patents held for the animal drug or its method of use. The Act also requires that this information, as well as a list of all animal drug products approved for safety and effectiveness, be made available to the public. This list must be updated monthly under the provisions of the Act. The list, known as the “Green Book,” was first published in January 1989. Updates have been added monthly since then. Each January, the list is published in its entirety.
Did you know that Veterinarians have to take an oath? According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) the oath states:
“Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge. I will practice my profession conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics. I accept as a lifelong obligation the continual improvement of my professional knowledge and competence.”
It should not be a secret that some livestock are administered antibiotics. Just like us, animals sometimes get sick and need antibiotics to get better.
This article has provided an overview of why cattle are fed antibiotics and the responsible use of antibiotics by beef producers. Beef producers do not want a resistance problem anymore than you or me, so they are doing all they can do to ensure that doesn’t happen. Next time you hear about antibiotic residue in meat, I hope you will remember that livestock farmers follow antibiotic withdrawal dates very seriously and that there are several government agencies tasked with guaranteeing a safe food supply.
A longer and more in-depth discussion on antibiotic resistance can be found at http://agriculturalwithdrlindsay.com.
References:
Acidosis: Feedlot Management Primer (Chapter 10. Nutritional Disorders). Ohio State University Extension. Found online at: http://beef.osu.edu/library/feedlot/ch10.html
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Found online at:
https://www.avma.org/News/JAVMANews/Pages/x110101a.aspx
Beef Procedures: Antibiotic Use. South Dakota State University Extension. Found online at:
http://www.sdstate.edu/vs/extension/beef-procedures-antibiotics.cfm
Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM). Found online at: http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/CentersOffices/OfficeofFoods/CVM/default.htm
Food Safety and Inspection Service National Residue Program (FSIS NRP). Found online at:
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/data-collection-and-reports/chemistry/residue-chemistry
Generic Animal Drug and Patent Restoration Act. Found online at:
http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/Products/ApprovedAnimalDrugProducts/default.htm
Nagaraja, T. G. and Chengappa, M. M. (1998). Liver abscesses in feedlot cattle: A review. Journal of Animal Science, 76 (1), 287-298. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Found online at: http://www.fda.gov/aboutfda/whatwedo/
UNL BeefWatch Sat. March 01, 2014
- Impacts of Cold Weather on Calf Weights
- Meat labeling terms – What do they mean? Part 2: Organic, All-natural, and Naturally Raised
- Nebraska Manure Demonstration Day to be held July 29, 2014
- Antibiotic resistance: Should I be concerned?
- How Can YOU Educate Consumers About Agriculture?
- RYE and RYEGRASS: What’s the Difference?
- Nebraska Broadband Initiative
- Balancing the Ranch for Protein & Energy with Forages
- 2014 Beef Feedlot Roundtable Webinars Are Now Available On-line
How are antibiotics used in cattle? What room is there for improvement? February 14, 2014 Ryan Goodman 1 Comment
from Agriculture Proud Ryan Goodman
“Who would want to eat beef, especially when you consider all the antibiotics and growth hormones used in raising the cattle.”
– Actual comment that represents many online article comments.
General consumer sentiment on beef today? Yes or No?
If so, what can we do to change this? And I’m not looking for the easy “Buy Local” or “Know Your Farmer” statements because 1) that’s an easy answer, 2) local food doesn’t always determine quality of farming/ranching practices, and 3) I firmly believe the use of antibiotics, hormones and other tools is mispercieved by the non-ag public.
This isn’t me denying that improvements in antibiotic or hormone use can be made, but honestly I’m kinda sick and tired of seeing all the negativity directed toward the livestock industries for this subject. To take a closer look at it, I spent much of my Christmas week at home working with my dad and we had a few conversations about antibiotic use in our family’s cattle auction. My dad does use antibiotics frequently in our yearling cattle that travel through the auction barn. It is a high-stress environment where many cattle arrive not weaned, are sometimes hauled in poor or cold/hot weather conditions, and are co-mingled with many other cattle while at the barn. When an animal comes in that has not been exposed to other animals, there’s not a whole lot we can do to keep those germs from spreading when other cattle come in contact with that animal or the pen it was in. It’s kind of like bringing a group of kids together for a kindergarten class.
My dad does spend a fair amount of time encouraging and trying to educate farmers in our market area on the importance of Best Management Practices to improve cattle immune system health – which include a sound vaccination program, proper nutrition and mineral supplement programs and low stress weaning strategies. But we cannot make those farmers implement those management practices, even when we do explain the economic advantages to better animal care. It’s their business and their management decisions.
Our business is not just a cattle auction. My dad turns cattle out on the several hundred acres of pastures we have leased in the area. He or people who he has hired, check on the cattle every single day, feeding them hay or feed as needed, and making sure they are healthy. The cattle will remain on pasture until they are at a weight large enough to send out West to the feedlots where they will be fed to a finish weight for slaughter.
As I mentioned earlier, many of the cattle my dad receives have endured stressful conditions, whether it be from weaning, transport in poor weather conditions, or co-mingling with new cattle. When this is the case, he may utilize an antibiotic treatment in a metaphylactic method – meaning animals in a group designated as high-risk for getting sick or experiencing an illness outbreak will receive a proper dose of an antibiotic as prescribed by the veterinarian who my dad talks to on a regular basis. This is not unlike the program I followed when working at the feedlots in Texas.
Giving these animals, who have been identified as high-risk for getting sick, a proactive treatment, eliminates the need for most antibiotic treatments in the weeks following. That significantly reduces the number of cattle that get sick later, which reduces the overall amount of antibiotics my dad must use on his cattle. The cattle recover more quickly from the previous stresses and get off to a healthier and better start in the next phase of their life. This reduces the amount of time my dad must spend handling the cattle and allows him to do more taking care of the other cattle, land, and help others do the same.
What would happen if the use of metaphylactic antibiotic treatment was removed from my dad’s farming operation? He might have to adjust his management style to reduce more stress on the animals, but he only has limited control on what happens to the cattle prior to receiving them from other farmers. He would likely have more cattle become chronically sick and die by not being able to proactively manage illness in the cattle he receives. We also need more cattle owners to understand the importance of and implement BMPs to reduce the stress on animals or to ensure they have a strong immune system.
Are there ways other than metaphylactic antibiotics to manage illness my dad’s cattle? Yes. But he uses far less antibiotics than what is perceived in the sentiment described at the top of this post. We all need to make adjustments in our management tools to continue being progressive, but we need to be sure and look at the larger picture and find out the reality of what actually happens before we start pointing fingers. Antibiotic usage can be reduced in livestock operations, but we do not need to let the pendulum swing too far to the other side due to strong emotions and fear marketing from journalists.
(And yes, this is a very simplistic view of the topic. But it is just one perspective in a much larger conversation)
To learn more about the use of antibiotics in livestock and the effect on meat safety, check out these links:
from Agriculture Proud Ryan Goodman
“Who would want to eat beef, especially when you consider all the antibiotics and growth hormones used in raising the cattle.”
– Actual comment that represents many online article comments.
General consumer sentiment on beef today? Yes or No?
If so, what can we do to change this? And I’m not looking for the easy “Buy Local” or “Know Your Farmer” statements because 1) that’s an easy answer, 2) local food doesn’t always determine quality of farming/ranching practices, and 3) I firmly believe the use of antibiotics, hormones and other tools is mispercieved by the non-ag public.
This isn’t me denying that improvements in antibiotic or hormone use can be made, but honestly I’m kinda sick and tired of seeing all the negativity directed toward the livestock industries for this subject. To take a closer look at it, I spent much of my Christmas week at home working with my dad and we had a few conversations about antibiotic use in our family’s cattle auction. My dad does use antibiotics frequently in our yearling cattle that travel through the auction barn. It is a high-stress environment where many cattle arrive not weaned, are sometimes hauled in poor or cold/hot weather conditions, and are co-mingled with many other cattle while at the barn. When an animal comes in that has not been exposed to other animals, there’s not a whole lot we can do to keep those germs from spreading when other cattle come in contact with that animal or the pen it was in. It’s kind of like bringing a group of kids together for a kindergarten class.
My dad does spend a fair amount of time encouraging and trying to educate farmers in our market area on the importance of Best Management Practices to improve cattle immune system health – which include a sound vaccination program, proper nutrition and mineral supplement programs and low stress weaning strategies. But we cannot make those farmers implement those management practices, even when we do explain the economic advantages to better animal care. It’s their business and their management decisions.
Our business is not just a cattle auction. My dad turns cattle out on the several hundred acres of pastures we have leased in the area. He or people who he has hired, check on the cattle every single day, feeding them hay or feed as needed, and making sure they are healthy. The cattle will remain on pasture until they are at a weight large enough to send out West to the feedlots where they will be fed to a finish weight for slaughter.
As I mentioned earlier, many of the cattle my dad receives have endured stressful conditions, whether it be from weaning, transport in poor weather conditions, or co-mingling with new cattle. When this is the case, he may utilize an antibiotic treatment in a metaphylactic method – meaning animals in a group designated as high-risk for getting sick or experiencing an illness outbreak will receive a proper dose of an antibiotic as prescribed by the veterinarian who my dad talks to on a regular basis. This is not unlike the program I followed when working at the feedlots in Texas.
Giving these animals, who have been identified as high-risk for getting sick, a proactive treatment, eliminates the need for most antibiotic treatments in the weeks following. That significantly reduces the number of cattle that get sick later, which reduces the overall amount of antibiotics my dad must use on his cattle. The cattle recover more quickly from the previous stresses and get off to a healthier and better start in the next phase of their life. This reduces the amount of time my dad must spend handling the cattle and allows him to do more taking care of the other cattle, land, and help others do the same.
What would happen if the use of metaphylactic antibiotic treatment was removed from my dad’s farming operation? He might have to adjust his management style to reduce more stress on the animals, but he only has limited control on what happens to the cattle prior to receiving them from other farmers. He would likely have more cattle become chronically sick and die by not being able to proactively manage illness in the cattle he receives. We also need more cattle owners to understand the importance of and implement BMPs to reduce the stress on animals or to ensure they have a strong immune system.
Are there ways other than metaphylactic antibiotics to manage illness my dad’s cattle? Yes. But he uses far less antibiotics than what is perceived in the sentiment described at the top of this post. We all need to make adjustments in our management tools to continue being progressive, but we need to be sure and look at the larger picture and find out the reality of what actually happens before we start pointing fingers. Antibiotic usage can be reduced in livestock operations, but we do not need to let the pendulum swing too far to the other side due to strong emotions and fear marketing from journalists.
(And yes, this is a very simplistic view of the topic. But it is just one perspective in a much larger conversation)
To learn more about the use of antibiotics in livestock and the effect on meat safety, check out these links:
- Antibiotics in the meat supply: Residues vs. Resistance (Dr. Janeal Yancey)
- “Antibiotic resistance threats in the United States” (Dr. Steven Solomon)
- Scare Tactics – Why Do So Many “Public Health Experts” Promote Fear vs. Food? (Dr. Jude Capper)
- Antibiotics Information from USFRA
- Use of Antibiotics in a Cattle Feedlot
- Antibiotics in Milk
- Are cattle fed antibiotics and hormones?
- Is antibiotic resistance due to livestock use?
- When Antibiotics are Necessary-Miley’s Story (Zweber Organic Dairy)
- Dear Panera Bread Company (Dairy Carrie)
More Docile Cattle
The personal and up close experience of many beef cattle farmers/ranchers has been confirmed: Cattle ( bulls, cows and calves) with a more docile or calm attitude perform better than cattle having an excitable temperament.
Cattle processing an excitable temperament can have an impact on other cattle within the herd. Also, the excitable temperament is inherited by calves and can reduce performance thus reducing profitability of the calf crop.
Why? Cattle and or calves with excitable (aggressive or ill) temperament experience: reduced performance (weight gain from farm through feedlot); calves have more health problems, when excitable calves are sick, they are generally sicker than calm calves; meat tenderness is influenced due the hormones and enzymes being at higher levels.
Genetics is a large part of raising easily excitable cattle and calves. Most National breed associations today have EPD’s (Expected Progeny Differences0 for docile or calmness. The higher the stated number for docile the more docile the cattle’s offspring. An EPD for docile of 20 is a more docile than an EPD of 10.
The management and handling of ill tempered cattle can be dangerous for farmer. As beef farmers continue to age- personal safety becomes more important. We have reduce mobility, plus we do not “heal” as quickly.
Ill tempered cattle during marketing are generally docked (reduced price) in the sale ring. Ever notice this at a local livestock marker or farm production sales- the auctioneer may say “ Oh its their first time to town” but beware. The University of Tennessee Senior and Junior bull sales, any bull with excitable or ill temperament are removed from the sale order.
Watch for docility when purchasing any breeding cattle. It only takes one to mess-up the whole herd.
Other Articles of interest:
Life Saving 1 and 2
Are You Ready?
Yes, Are ready to rumble and ramble or will it be a gamble? Many beef cattle farmers will shortly begin their spring breeding season for cow/calf herds. But are the “bulls” ready to rumble and ramble across the pastures or will it be a high stakes gamble on the “bulls” readiness?
Why should beef cattle farmers be concerned about the bull, of course he’s ready, he’s a bull ain’t he? Plus farmers have lots of other things on their plate to think about, such as feeding hay, breaking ice, mud tractor axle deep and keeping young calves alive. Buddy its bone chilling cold outside.
According to the calendar April 1st isn’t too far away, that’s generally the beginning of spring breeding season. The bulls should be in good condition to rumble and ramble, preferably a “body condition score” (BCS) of 6, to allow for producing adequate semen to impregnate those cows on the first breeding. Driving through the country recently several bulls appeared rather “thin”, not in adequate condition for breeding. Example; Lets BCS these bulls, say a 3, now how do we get that bull to a BCS 6?
Generally, it requires a bull or cow to gain 100 pounds to improve on BCS. So our 3 needs to gain 300 pounds. The calendar says February 10 to April 1 is 49 days til spring breeding season begins. Our 3 bull must gain 6 pounds a day to reach a BCS of 6, a rather tall order, don’t you agree?
Our 3 bull will need some rather high energy feed to get this job done or improve his ability to rumble and ramble over the pastures and breed those cows.
What about a Breeding Soundness Examination (BSE)? A BSE preformed by your herd veterinarian can assist to evaluate the bulls condition and potential. The BSE may be comparable to your annual physical preformed by your family doctor.
The condition of these bulls may influence next years (2015) calf crop. The bull may go through all the motions of breeding because he is a bull but does the cow become pregnant? If she fails to become pregnant this delays calving for 2015. Thus it may delay the farmers pay day. Its getting late but still have time to plan ahead.
There are several “bull sales” by farms and breed associations in the near future that will offer bulls in breeding condition. That is one possibility, oh there’s a sale every week at the local livestock market. Ever think that bull may be there for the same reason, he’d given a one way to town for some unknown reason.
Think the breeding seasons over, while doing all the other chores. Are the bulls ready to rumble and ramble but not gamble?
USDA Identifies Foot and Mouth Virus
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) scientist have developed a new cell like that rapidly and accurately detects foot-and-mouth disease virus, which causes a highly contagious and economically devastating disease in cattle and other cloven-hoofed animals.
The new cell line was created by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) at the Plum Island Foreign Animal Disease Research Unit (FADRU) near Orient Point, New York. The research, published online in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology, supports the USDA priority of promoting international food security.
The important breakthrough is just one example of how ARS is working to improve Agricultural productivity in the face of increasing food demand. The new cell line will help in the global effort to control a disease that can cause significant losses.
The new cell line detects foot-and-mouth virus in field samples that come directly from naturally infected animals faster than existing cell lines. The new cells are the first permanent cell line capable of identifying all seven serotypes of FMD virus.
The United States has not had a FMD outbreak in more 80 years. However, the disease is still a serious threat and is considered to be the most economically devastating livestock disease worldwide. Outbreaks in other countries have resulted in the slaughter of millions of animals to prevent the disease from spreading.
Being able to rapidly detect the virus during outbreaks would allow researchers to quickly develop an appropriate vaccine among the seven serotypes and dozens of subtypes, thereby saving valuable time and millions of dollars.
Other cell types currently used to diagnose FMD don’t survive long and must be obtained directly from animals as primary cell cultures, causing variation from one batch to the other. The new cell line can be continually grown in culture, maintains susceptibility to FMD virus much longer and doesn’t require getting new cells from animals repeatedly. Patents have been applied for the new cell line.
Sometime We Are Mean to Our Cows
Well this is awkward. I have spent the last two years talking about our farm and how much I love my cows. If you have read more than a few posts here I hope that you understand my deep love for the cows in my care, “my girls“.
That being said sometimes I am mean to my cows. If you were to ask me if I have ever hit one of my cows I couldn’t tell you no without lying.
I am going to let you in on a secret, PETA and Mercy For Animals have shown you some truth in their undercover videos on dairy farms. The truth is sometimes as a dairy farmer I am mean to my cows.
I think it’s time we talk about “down" cows.
What's a down cow?
A down cow is a cow that is sick or injured and is laying down and can’t or won’t get up. A down cow is the kind of thing that will make your day go from great to very bad in short order. A down cow isn’t just something that happens on a dairy farm, beef cows can go down out on pasture, organic cows go down if it's a cow, it can go down.
Why does a cow go down?
A down cow can be down for about a million reasons. It can be something like she hurt her leg and doesn’t want to
put weight on it to get up. It can be because she just had a calf and during delivery she pinched a nerve. A cow can be down because after calving she has a calcium imbalance that needs to be corrected. There are lots of reasons for a cow to go down.
So what’s the big deal if a cow goes down?
A cow is a big animal, I think we can all agree on that right? When a cow lays down for long periods of time all of her weight rests on her legs. Her legs start to lose circulation, as they lose circulation they become weak. A cow needs strong legs to lift her hefty frame up. The longer a cow is down the lesser her chances of ever getting back up become. It doesn’t matter what caused the cow to go down in the first place, a down cow that doesn’t get up becomes a dead cow.
How do you get a down cow up?
This is where I will admit, I have been mean to my cows. But before you think I am a horrible person, let’s look at the facts. What do you do when a cow is really in trouble? You get serious. Undercover animal rights videos like to show cows being yelled at and hit, having cattle prods used on them, being drug along the ground or being
lifted with skid loaders or other heavy equipment. I will fully admit that I have done every one of those things.
Lifting a down cow takes patience and knowledge to keep her safe from hurting herself or us. A down cow is a dead cow. You have to get a cow on her feet if she is going to live. Time is of the essence. She absolutely has to get up.
When we have a down cow the first thing we do is ask her to get up. If she doesn’t try to get up with that we know we have to try harder. As evident by their lack of talons, fangs and upper teeth, a cow is a prey animal. Prey animals operate on the fight or flight mentality, preferring flight whenever possible. A cow doesn’t want to fight with the scary thing, a cow wants to get away from the scary thing. In order to get away from the scary thing a cow has to get up!
When asking and gentle encouragement doesn’t work, I make myself scary to a cow. I yell and holler. I act aggressive. I smack harder. When that doesn’t work I know that things are going really bad and I have to try harder to get her up. The next step is for me to use the cattle prod.
A cattle prod delivers a painful electric shock. It hurts. It’s not a shock that will incapacitate you like a taser, but it’s not a gentle nuzzle from a puppy nose. I have never been hit by one and I really don’t want to feel what it feels like but if it was a choice between dying and getting hit by a cattle prod charge? I hope the batteries are fresh!
When the cattle prod doesn’t work we get the skid loader. We will use a hip lift to lift the cow and allow her legs to regain circulation. When a cow weighs from 1,000-2,000lbs it takes heavy equipment to lift her.
Speaking of skid loaders, when a cow goes down in a place where she is blocking other cows or is at risk of being stepped on by other cows you have to move her. In a perfect world we roll her onto a sled and drag the sled with the cow on it to a better place, but life isn’t perfect. We have had cows that I have been nursing through an illness walk into the milking parlor, lay down and refuse to get up. Obviously you can’t just let them lay there. There is no way to get a sled or equipment to lift the cow into the parlor. That’s when we have to drag the cow to the sled. It sucks. I hate it. I also know that there isn’t another choice if I want the cow to live.
I know that on any day that includes a down cow, if Mercy for Animals was undercover on our dairy farm, they could make a video and post it on YouTube and it would convince millions of people that I am an animal abuser in just a few short moments. On a good day, after giving it our all the cow gets up. She is sullen, scared and probably hates us but she is alive. The video's would never show that. That part doesn’t fit what they want to tell you.
Mercy for Animals, PETA, Compassion Over Killing and other animal rights groups like to include video footage of these kinds of situations to try and turn people against me and my industry. Yes, some videos also show true abuse and I absolutely do not condone animal abuse. I am NOT making excuses for abusers. They deserve to rot. But I hope the next time another one of these abuse videos comes out that shows a down cow situation people take a little longer to think about what they saw and how they would handle that kind of situation
I love my cows and that means sometimes I have to be mean to
them.
Treatment of Wisconsin Dairy Cows on Farm
WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF MEAT PLANTS HAD GLASS WALLS ?
That question is often raised by groups opposed to meat consumption. Many animal rights groups say if slaughter houses (meat plants or harvest facilities) had glass walls we would all be vegetarians, which is doubtful.
Meat plants do not have glass walls for good reasons: 1- animals are visual thinkers who are easily upset by distractions, such as visitors, shadows, or a coat on the wall: 2- food safety is critically important: 3- the machinery and knives used in meat plants ,operations must be careful to protect visitors and employees.
Animals are continually under observation and watchful eyes of trained veterinarians from Food Safety Inspection Service from the United States Department of Agriculture. These inspectors are responsible for enforcing compliance with the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act.
All animals must be stunned- rendered insensible to pain- with a blow to the head or electric shock. Electric shock is used to induce a heart attack. A captive bolt gun is used to deliver a blow to the skull and a rod into the animals brain.
Dr. Temple Grandin, professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University, is widely considered to be the worlds leading expert on humane animal handling at meat plants. Temple explains and narrates guided video tours of beef, pork and turkey plants that provide an honest observation on how animals are handled at meat plants.
Dr. Grandin and the American Meat Institute have developed a series of videos to explain what happens prior to and during the harvest process. These videos show Best Management Practices being carried out during the harvest process. I think these videos are helpful to our understanding how animals are turned into meat, from farm to plate.
Over the past years I have had opportunities to tour several harvest facilities from large (serving all points across the U.S.), regional (serving one area) and small (serving local areas and custom processing for individuals). During these tours I have been amazed at the humane handling of animals, the calm and peacefulness of animals, safety of workers, cleanliness and efficiency of the process. Many people do not realize that each and every part of the animal is used, little or nothing goes to waste.
The animals are handled in a low stress environment from farm to and through the harvest facility. Humane handling of animals is ethical and appropriate.
These following videos are presented for your consideration or viewing, the videos are: 1- Video Tour of a Beef plant featuring Temple Grandin; 2- Video Tour of a Pork Plant featuring Temple Grandin; 3- Turkey Farm and Processing Tour: Temple Grandin. Watch for these three titles either before or following the article.
We all may not be able to visit or tour a meat plant but these videos offer an opportunity to learn from a distance. I trust you will receive these videos as a learning opportunity, give us your comments.
Video Tour of Beef Plant Featuring Temple Grandin
www.youtube.com
Video Tour of a Pork Plant Featuring Temple Grandin
www.youtube.com
Turkey Farm & Processing Plant Tour: Temple Grandin
www.youtube.com
Our Farms Corn Planting Time
Oh what a beautiful day! Oh what a beautiful morning as the sun peaks over the mountains, hills and into the valley below to warm the soils of our farm. The green trees and grass along with the pink and white dogwoods are so clean, clear and bright with cheerful colors plus those yellow buttercups scattered across many fields, along with chirping birds is natures grand display of beauty. Oh what a beautiful morning on our farm.
Our John Deere tractor is a beaming green as we begin the chore of planting this years corn crop. The smell and feel of fresh soil is pleasant on this beautiful morning. If you haven't had the opportunity to smell and feel fresh soil beneath your toes, Oh what you have missed.
We begin to prepare for our 2013 corn crop early in the fall months of 2012. Why then you may ask? We were busy collecting soil samples all across our fields to evaluate the nutrients necessary for raising corn. The corn along with many crops farmers/ranchers raise need sixteen essential nutrients: C-carbon, H-hydrogen, O-oxygen, N-nitrogen, P-phosphorus, K-potassium, Ca-calcium, Mg-magnesium, S-sulfur, Fe-Iron, Mn-manganese, B-Boron, Mo-Molybdenum, Cu-copper, Zn-zinc and Cl-chlorine. We evaluate the soil to determine the amount of fertilizer to add for raising our corn. The corn plants are much like our bodies, we need proper nutrition to carry out our daily activities. We have already spread the required fertilizer to supply the nutrients just before corn planting time. We do not add more fertilizer than required so as not to harm our environment.
Earlier in December we studied many reports, from agronomist that develop and test seed corn, to select a variety suitable for our farm's environment. We evaluated the seed for:
1. yield-the bushels we would like to raise from each acre of soil.
2. insect and disease-to reduce damage these may do to the corn plant.
3. lodging-the ability of corn to withstand winds and other environmental effects.
4. season-the days required for the corn to reach maturity.
5. moisture-how quick the corn will dry to a safe storage moisture.
The corn will then be used for food items such as cornflakes, corn chips, corn syrup or any number of food items from local grocery store. Also, pet foods and livestock feeds. Yes, we apply fungicides (for disease) and insecticides (for insects) to our seed corn to protect the corn plant while growing. The protection allows the corn plant to grow and reach its genetic potential.
We prepare the soil for planting corn using minimum tillage conservation practices to build and preserve our soil aand reduce erosion. Now on this beautiful morning our beaming green John Deere tractor and corn planter are ready to begin planting the seed corn that was selected for our farm's environment. The seed will be planted at 24 to 26 thousand kernals of seed corn per acre to enable us to raise 125-130 bushels of corn. The seed are planted in rows thirty-six inches wide and each kerrnal is spaced six to seven inches within the row. Big John Deere is continually beaming rolling across our fields plaanting each kernal of seed corn at the correct width, row spacing and depth in our soil. The sun continues to shine, warming the soil and with rains Mother Nature gives us the corn will begin to grow into a living breathing corn plant.
We only have one more job before the seeds begin to grow, weed control. We must continually watch our field for weeds. We have studied many weed control measures for the major weeds in our fields. (morning glories and cockle burs) If we fail to control these weeds, they will use the plant nutrients and moisture in competition with the young corn plants, thus the corn plants will not have sufficient nutrients to grow and reach their genetic potential. Yes, we use herbicides applied to our soil to contol these and other weeds. We very carefully select weed control measures so as not to harm our environment.
Our beaming John Deere tractor and planter have planted the seed, now we will watch and hope for a beautiful growing season. We patietly wait and watch for any insect, disease or weeds that may have escaped our control measures. Should we discover any escapes, its our responsibility to protect the corn plants.
Today each farmer/rancher invest in technology so as to reduce trips over the fields, reduce greenhouse gasses and reduce damage to our food items. We now will be patient and hope for rains and sunlight for the corn to grow lots of ears of mature corn. These ears will make a good harvest so we may supply American family consumers a safe, wholesome, nutritious food.
These are the same jobs many farmers/ranchers evaluate to raise food crops for American family consumers to enjoy a safe, wholesome nutritious food. We are also concerned about the environment as our families are effected by our agricultural practices, as we live and work closely with our crops and animals.
Oh what a beautiful day! Oh what a beautiful morning as the sun peaks over the mountains, hills and into the valley below to warm the soils of our farm. The green trees and grass along with the pink and white dogwoods are so clean, clear and bright with cheerful colors plus those yellow buttercups scattered across many fields, along with chirping birds is natures grand display of beauty. Oh what a beautiful morning on our farm.
Our John Deere tractor is a beaming green as we begin the chore of planting this years corn crop. The smell and feel of fresh soil is pleasant on this beautiful morning. If you haven't had the opportunity to smell and feel fresh soil beneath your toes, Oh what you have missed.
We begin to prepare for our 2013 corn crop early in the fall months of 2012. Why then you may ask? We were busy collecting soil samples all across our fields to evaluate the nutrients necessary for raising corn. The corn along with many crops farmers/ranchers raise need sixteen essential nutrients: C-carbon, H-hydrogen, O-oxygen, N-nitrogen, P-phosphorus, K-potassium, Ca-calcium, Mg-magnesium, S-sulfur, Fe-Iron, Mn-manganese, B-Boron, Mo-Molybdenum, Cu-copper, Zn-zinc and Cl-chlorine. We evaluate the soil to determine the amount of fertilizer to add for raising our corn. The corn plants are much like our bodies, we need proper nutrition to carry out our daily activities. We have already spread the required fertilizer to supply the nutrients just before corn planting time. We do not add more fertilizer than required so as not to harm our environment.
Earlier in December we studied many reports, from agronomist that develop and test seed corn, to select a variety suitable for our farm's environment. We evaluated the seed for:
1. yield-the bushels we would like to raise from each acre of soil.
2. insect and disease-to reduce damage these may do to the corn plant.
3. lodging-the ability of corn to withstand winds and other environmental effects.
4. season-the days required for the corn to reach maturity.
5. moisture-how quick the corn will dry to a safe storage moisture.
The corn will then be used for food items such as cornflakes, corn chips, corn syrup or any number of food items from local grocery store. Also, pet foods and livestock feeds. Yes, we apply fungicides (for disease) and insecticides (for insects) to our seed corn to protect the corn plant while growing. The protection allows the corn plant to grow and reach its genetic potential.
We prepare the soil for planting corn using minimum tillage conservation practices to build and preserve our soil aand reduce erosion. Now on this beautiful morning our beaming green John Deere tractor and corn planter are ready to begin planting the seed corn that was selected for our farm's environment. The seed will be planted at 24 to 26 thousand kernals of seed corn per acre to enable us to raise 125-130 bushels of corn. The seed are planted in rows thirty-six inches wide and each kerrnal is spaced six to seven inches within the row. Big John Deere is continually beaming rolling across our fields plaanting each kernal of seed corn at the correct width, row spacing and depth in our soil. The sun continues to shine, warming the soil and with rains Mother Nature gives us the corn will begin to grow into a living breathing corn plant.
We only have one more job before the seeds begin to grow, weed control. We must continually watch our field for weeds. We have studied many weed control measures for the major weeds in our fields. (morning glories and cockle burs) If we fail to control these weeds, they will use the plant nutrients and moisture in competition with the young corn plants, thus the corn plants will not have sufficient nutrients to grow and reach their genetic potential. Yes, we use herbicides applied to our soil to contol these and other weeds. We very carefully select weed control measures so as not to harm our environment.
Our beaming John Deere tractor and planter have planted the seed, now we will watch and hope for a beautiful growing season. We patietly wait and watch for any insect, disease or weeds that may have escaped our control measures. Should we discover any escapes, its our responsibility to protect the corn plants.
Today each farmer/rancher invest in technology so as to reduce trips over the fields, reduce greenhouse gasses and reduce damage to our food items. We now will be patient and hope for rains and sunlight for the corn to grow lots of ears of mature corn. These ears will make a good harvest so we may supply American family consumers a safe, wholesome, nutritious food.
These are the same jobs many farmers/ranchers evaluate to raise food crops for American family consumers to enjoy a safe, wholesome nutritious food. We are also concerned about the environment as our families are effected by our agricultural practices, as we live and work closely with our crops and animals.
Our Farm’s Corn Crop- Update
We were busy planting our corn crop during the first week of May, after studying soil fertility, soil test for plant nutrients, also weed, insect and disease control measures. A corn variety was selected to match our land/soils as we are trying to raise corn while caring for the land and our environment.
Our corn plants grew exceptionally well during the season, except for one area where rain pooled causing the corn plants to drown. The fertilizer (plant food), insect, disease and weed control measures worked surprisingly well considering the large amount of rain that was received. The corn plants received 35.2 inches of rain from planting to harvest. That’s almost a year’s rainfall during six months. An excessive amount of rain can reduce the effectiveness of fertilizer and weed control measures.
Our “Gleaner Combine” smiled big from row to row as the corn crop was being harvested during the first week of November 2013. The Gleaner Combine was kept busy snapping the ears of corn from the corn plants and removing shucks from those ears of corn. The shucks act as clothing or coverings for the grains of corn.
The next step for the Gleanor was shelling, removing the grains of corn. Following shelling process the Gleanor separates all these parts: grain, cobs and shucks. The grains are transported to a grain bin while the cobs, shucks ad corn plants add organic matter to the soil thus improving soil fertility and covering the soil to reduce wind and rain erosion.
The grain bin is unloaded to our “big Orange” wagon and hauled to the barn, by our big John Deere tractor, for storage. The grains of corn will eventually be used for livestock feed or milled into corn meal to make taco shells, corn ships or corn flakes for breakfast.
Our Corn crop yield was about 1900 bushels form 12 acres of land or 158 bushels per acre average. It was on of the best if not the best crop of corn we have raised during the past several years.
Now it’s off to the races to gather information to study for the 2014 corn crop.
A related article you may like:
Our Farms Corn Planting Time
Did you Know?
There are about 90 million acres of land planted to corn in the United States. Most of the corn is grown in the heartland: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio and South Dakota.
How much corn does it take to produce?
1 pound of chicken = 1.25 pounds of corn
1 pound of pork = 3.5 pounds of corn
1 pound of beef = 6.0 pounds of corn
If U.S. farmers used crop production practices from the 1930’s to raise an amount of corn equal to the 2013 crop it would require 490 million acres. That is 120 million acres larger that the state of Alaska, our largest state.
Corn has an incredibility long shelf life. Archeologists have been able to pop 1000 year old kernels of corn.
The corn cob (ear) is actually part of the corn plant’s flower.
U.S. farmers and ranchers raise about 40% of the world’s corn.
Corn Uses:
38% used for livestock (beef, pork, chicken) feed
29% used for ethanol
12% used for food, seed and industrial uses
8% Exported to other countries
8% displaced by distiller’s grain
5% carried over as a surplus
Through the study of genetics, we know that corn’s wild ancestor is a grass called Teosinte.
Mowing and Growing
How are these two activities related : rotational grazing and lawn mowing? Farmers/ranchers who practice rotational grazing have fast growing grass, much like the family lawn. Isn’t it amazing just how fast the lawn grows from week to week.
Let’s define rotational grazing: A large pasture that is sub-divided into several smaller pastures or paddocks which cattle (big zero turn lawn mowers) are permitted to graze and when the grass has been grazed (mowed) to a three or four inch height, the cattle are moved or rotated to the next pasture. Lawn mowing: maintaining the family lawn at a constant height of three to four inches, and removal of any excess growth each week or two. Don’t these two activities seem to be related? Yes, just that one occurs in a farmer/ranchers pasture and the other occurs in the family lawn.
Have you ever missed a week of lawn mowing, maybe fourteen days or more between mowing? Just how much more has the grass grown? Most rotational grazing systems recommend removing cattle when the grass has been grazed to a three or four inch height, much the same as the family lawn. These rotational grazing systems recommend a timely fourteen to twenty- one or twenty- eight day “rest period” between pasture grazing periods. The family lawn generally gets a seven to fourteen day rest period between mowing. Thus, the rest period allows the grass blades to replenish the roots, a store house for food and energy. The strong grass root allows or encourages faster regrowth of grasses either in the pastures or lawns. Think of the grass root as a potato in the pantry. As a sprout begins to grow, the potato (root) begins to shrivel or wrinkle because the sprout is using the stored food supply. These rest periods allows the grass blades to replenish the food supply within the root.
The length of rest period can and will be influenced by moisture , fertility, sunlight and grazing height. This is where grass evaluation or management enters the picture. Its not too difficult to evaluate lawn growth but rotational grazing systems covers larger areas influenced by soil types, moisture, fertility, grass varieties and the number of cattle grazing. Maybe, we just need to improve grass management.
The lush growth of grasses will contain more nutrition for energy and cattle growth. The strength or nutrition of the grass will be influenced by the rest period and those items previously stated to encourage manufacture (photosynthesis) of food stored in the grass root. Rotational grazing boost grass utilization and can extend grazing seasons. Thus reducing the hay feeding periods. Consider when did the lawn mowing season begin and just how long will it last. Are these two activities related?
I think of these often as I mow the family lawn, if only we can get our pastures to grow as fast as the lawn! Plus, its much cheaper to allow those big four legged lawn mowers harvest grass rather than harvest grass as hay and haul it out for feed. Improve grass management.
How are these two activities related : rotational grazing and lawn mowing? Farmers/ranchers who practice rotational grazing have fast growing grass, much like the family lawn. Isn’t it amazing just how fast the lawn grows from week to week.
Let’s define rotational grazing: A large pasture that is sub-divided into several smaller pastures or paddocks which cattle (big zero turn lawn mowers) are permitted to graze and when the grass has been grazed (mowed) to a three or four inch height, the cattle are moved or rotated to the next pasture. Lawn mowing: maintaining the family lawn at a constant height of three to four inches, and removal of any excess growth each week or two. Don’t these two activities seem to be related? Yes, just that one occurs in a farmer/ranchers pasture and the other occurs in the family lawn.
Have you ever missed a week of lawn mowing, maybe fourteen days or more between mowing? Just how much more has the grass grown? Most rotational grazing systems recommend removing cattle when the grass has been grazed to a three or four inch height, much the same as the family lawn. These rotational grazing systems recommend a timely fourteen to twenty- one or twenty- eight day “rest period” between pasture grazing periods. The family lawn generally gets a seven to fourteen day rest period between mowing. Thus, the rest period allows the grass blades to replenish the roots, a store house for food and energy. The strong grass root allows or encourages faster regrowth of grasses either in the pastures or lawns. Think of the grass root as a potato in the pantry. As a sprout begins to grow, the potato (root) begins to shrivel or wrinkle because the sprout is using the stored food supply. These rest periods allows the grass blades to replenish the food supply within the root.
The length of rest period can and will be influenced by moisture , fertility, sunlight and grazing height. This is where grass evaluation or management enters the picture. Its not too difficult to evaluate lawn growth but rotational grazing systems covers larger areas influenced by soil types, moisture, fertility, grass varieties and the number of cattle grazing. Maybe, we just need to improve grass management.
The lush growth of grasses will contain more nutrition for energy and cattle growth. The strength or nutrition of the grass will be influenced by the rest period and those items previously stated to encourage manufacture (photosynthesis) of food stored in the grass root. Rotational grazing boost grass utilization and can extend grazing seasons. Thus reducing the hay feeding periods. Consider when did the lawn mowing season begin and just how long will it last. Are these two activities related?
I think of these often as I mow the family lawn, if only we can get our pastures to grow as fast as the lawn! Plus, its much cheaper to allow those big four legged lawn mowers harvest grass rather than harvest grass as hay and haul it out for feed. Improve grass management.